Nursing is a stable and reliable career path with plenty of growth opportunities. And while the average salary for a registered nurse is nothing to sneeze at, it’s not the only reason to enter the field.
Nursing is a highly respected profession that allows you to directly care for patients and make a real difference in their lives.
If you’re thinking about becoming an RN Nurse, read our complete step-by-step guide on how to make it happen.
Table of Contents
- Why Become An RN Nurse?
- What Are the Things You Need To Know Before Becoming An RN Nurse?
- What are the Benefits of Becoming An RN Nurse?
- What Are The Requirements Needed To Become An RN Nurse?
- How To Become An RN Nurse
- Step 1: Determine if a Nursing Career is Right for You.
- Step 2: Determine Which Type of Nurse You Want to Be
- Step 3: Examine the Type of Education Required
- Step 4: Fulfill Requirements and Apply to Schools
- Step 5: Earn your Degree
- Step 6: Pass the NCLEX Exam
- Step 7: Obtain State Licensure
- Step 8: Find Employment
- Step 9: Seek Advanced Training (optional)
- What Are The Pros of Becoming An RN Nurse?
- What Are The Cons of Becoming An RN Nurse?
- How Long is A RN Nurse Education?
- How Much Does an RN Nurse Get Paid?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- References
Why Become An RN Nurse?
There are many reasons to become an RN nurse, but the top three are job security, good pay, and the ability to help others.
1. Job Security
Nurses are in high demand,, and the job outlook for RNs is very positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that registered nurse employment will grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2024.
This growth is partly due to an aging population and medical advances that allow people to live longer, healthier lives.
2. Good Pay
RN nurses earn a median annual salary of $68,450, with the top 10% earning more than $96,630.
In addition to a competitive salary, RN nurses enjoy good benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans.
3. Helping Others
RN nurses have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of their patients. They provide comfort and care to those who are sick or injured, and they help families cope with the stress of having a sick loved one.
RN nurses can also take on additional responsibilities, such as teaching patient education classes or working with community organizations to promote health and wellness.
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What Are the Things You Need To Know Before Becoming An RN Nurse?
You need to know a few things before becoming an RN nurse. Firstly, you will need to have a relevant nursing qualification, such as a Diploma or Degree in Nursing.
Secondly, you must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) and hold a current practicing certificate.
Thirdly, you will need to have appropriate insurance coverage. Lastly, you must maintain your Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
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What are the Benefits of Becoming An RN Nurse?
There are many benefits to becoming an RN nurse. The most obvious benefit is the salary. RN nurses make a very good salary and can often find work anywhere in the country.
Another great benefit is job security. RNs are always in demand, and there are always job openings for qualified nurses.
The work hours are also very flexible, which is perfect for those with family or other commitments outside of work.
And finally, RN nurses make a difference in people’s lives daily. They help people through some of the most challenging times in their lives and see the positive impact their work has on patients and their families.
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What Are The Requirements Needed To Become An RN Nurse?
There are a few requirements you must meet to become an RN nurse. Firstly, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Secondly, you must complete an accredited nursing program. Finally, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your RN license.
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How To Become An RN Nurse
The steps to becoming an RN may vary slightly depending on your chosen path, but the process is straightforward. You can become an RN in no time with dedication and hard work!
Here are the steps to take to become an RN Nurse:
Step 1: Determine if a Nursing Career is Right for You.
One of the most significant choices you will make is your career. It’s crucial to pick a profession you love and that suits your personality.
Although it is not for everyone, nursing is a rewarding profession. Before becoming an RN nurse, keep the following in mind:
Do you have a passion for helping others?
Nursing is a very rewarding career, but it can also be very challenging. Nursing may not be the best career choice for you if you do not love to help people.
Do you have the ability to handle stress and difficult situations?
Nurses deal with sick patients and their families daily. They must be able to handle stress and difficult situations.
If you do not think you can handle this type of environment, then nursing may not be the right career for you.
Do you have good communication skills?
Effective communication with patients’ families is a skill that nurses must possess. Nursing may not be the best career choice for you if you lack strong communication skills.
Do you have good problem-solving skills?
Nurses must be able to solve problems quickly and efficiently. If you do not have good problem-solving skills, then nursing may not be the right career for you.
Step 2: Determine Which Type of Nurse You Want to Be
There are many types of nursing careers, and each comes with its own set of responsibilities, working conditions, and required educational qualifications.
To become an RN nurse, you will first need to decide which type of nurse you would like to become. Here are some of the most common types of RN nurses:
- Pediatric nurses care for infants, children, and adolescents up to 21. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices.
- Adult health nurses care for adult patients with various acute and chronic health conditions. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices.
- Geriatric nurses specialize in caring for older adults. They may work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or private practices.
- OB/GYN nurses provide care for women during their reproductive years. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices.
- Critical care nurses provide care for patients who are critically ill or injured. They may work in hospitals, trauma centers, or other healthcare facilities that provide 24-hour care.
Step 3: Examine the Type of Education Required
There are many different types of nursing programs available, so it’s important to explore what type of education is needed to become an RN nurse.
The most common type of nursing program is the Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), which takes around two years to complete.
There are also Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) programs, which take around four years to complete.
The RN licensing exam will be prepared for by both ADN and BSN programs, but a BSN program will give you access to more information and training that can help you advance in your career.
Speak with an admissions advisor at a nearby nursing school if you’re unsure of the type of program that’s best for you.
Step 4: Fulfill Requirements and Apply to Schools
There are a few prerequisites you must complete before you can apply to nurse schools. Firstly, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Secondly, you must have completed certain prerequisite courses, such as biology, chemistry, and math. Lastly, you must take the Nursing Entrance Test (NET) and achieve a passing score.
Once you have completed all the prerequisites, you can begin applying to nursing schools.
The application process will vary depending on the school, but most applications require transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an essay.
Once you have submitted your application, it will be reviewed by the admissions committee, and you will be notified of their decision.
Step 5: Earn your Degree
You will need to take a few steps to become an RN nurse. Firstly, you must earn your degree from an accredited nursing program.
Once you have completed your degree, you will then need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your license. After you have obtained your license, you can start working as an RN nurse.
Step 6: Pass the NCLEX Exam
To become an RN nurse, you must pass the NCLEX exam. This exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills in various areas, including anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology.
There are different ways to prepare for the NCLEX exam, including taking classes, studying independently, or even working with a tutor.
Regardless of how you choose to prepare, it is important that you understand the material and feel confident in your abilities before taking the exam.
Step 7: Obtain State Licensure
Obtaining state licensure is another step toward becoming an RN. To do so, you must complete an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you have your license, you can begin working as an RN.
Getting your state’s license is the first step in becoming an RN. You must complete an accredited nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses in order to do this. You can start working as an RN once you have your license.
There are many different types of accredited nursing programs that you can choose from to become an RN.
These include diploma programs, associate’s degrees, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
Each type of program has its own requirements that you will need to meet to be eligible for admission.
Once you have graduated from an accredited nursing program, you will need to take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to get your RN license.
The NCLEX-RN is a national standardized examination that all prospective RNs must take to be licensed to practice nursing in the United States. This exam tests your knowledge and skills in various areas of nursing care.
After passing the NCLEX-RN exam and obtaining your RN license, you can begin your RN career. There are many settings in.
Step 8: Find Employment
Another step to becoming an RN nurse is finding employment. You can find RN nursing jobs in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, physician offices, and home health agencies.
There are also many job openings for RN nurses in the government and non-profit sectors.
To find RN nursing jobs, you can search online job boards or classifieds or contact your state’s Board of Nursing.
You can also check with local hospitals and clinics to see if they have any open RN positions. Once you find a few potential employers, thoroughly research each one before applying for a position.
When applying for RN nursing jobs, highlight your education and experience in your cover letter and resume.
In addition, be sure to list any specialties or areas of expertise that you have. For example, if you have experience caring for patients with chronic illnesses, be sure to mention this in your application materials.
Once you’ve found a few potential employers, the next step is to set up interviews. Be sure to dress professionally and arrive early for your interviews.
During the interview, be prepared to answer questions about your nursing experience and education and why you’re interested in the position.
After the interview, follow up with a thank-you note or email within 24 hours. This will show your potential employer that you’re interested in the position and appreciate their time.
Step 9: Seek Advanced Training (optional)
If you want to become an RN nurse, one of the optional things you can do is seek advanced training.
There are many different types of programs and courses that you can take to advance your career and become an RN nurse. Some of these programs include:
- RN to BSN programs
- MSN programs
- NP programs
- DNP programs
Each of these programs will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills that you need to be a successful RN nurse.
In addition, taking one or more of these programs will also help to improve your chances of getting hired by a hospital or other healthcare facility.
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What Are The Pros of Becoming An RN Nurse?
There are many advantages to becoming an RN nurse. Firstly, RN nurses are in high demand, and there is predicted to be a continued shortage of RNs in the coming years. This means that RN nurses will be able to find employment easily and command high salaries.
Secondly, RN nurses work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to clinics to nursing homes. This allows them to gain a wide range of experience and skills.
Thirdly, RN nurses have the potential to earn a lot of money over their careers.
Finally, RN nurses enjoy higher job satisfaction rates than average, meaning they can expect to feel happy and fulfilled in their roles.
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What Are The Cons of Becoming An RN Nurse?
The cons of becoming an RN nurse include the following:
- 1. You will have to work long hours.
- 2. You will be on your feet for most of your shift.
- 3. You will be exposed to sick patients and their bodily fluids.
- 4. You may be required to work weekends and holidays.
- 5. You may have to work night shifts.
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How Long is A RN Nurse Education?
There are many different types of RN programs, each with its own length of time requirements.
The most common type of RN program is the four-year bachelor’s degree, typically taking three to four years to complete.
Other RN programs include the two-year associate’s degree, the three-year diploma, and the one-year accelerated bachelor’s degree.
No matter which type of RN program you choose, you can expect to spend significant time in school to earn your nursing degree.
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How Much Does an RN Nurse Get Paid?
The average RN nurse’s salary is $64,690 per year. However, experienced RN nurses can earn up to $92,000 per year.
The median RN salary is $60,000. To become an RN nurse, you must complete an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
It usually takes about two years to complete an RN program. However, some programs may take longer, depending on your previous education and experience.
to become an RN nurse, you must complete an accredited nursing program. You will then need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Once you have passed the NCLEX-RN, you will be eligible to apply for state licensure.
The cost of becoming an RN nurse varies depending on the nursing program you choose to attend. However, most programs range from $5,000-$10,000.
The job outlook for RN nurses is positive. Through 2024, there will be a 16% increase in demand for registered nurses, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016–17 Edition, Registered Nurses
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Conclusion
If you’re interested in becoming an RN nurse, then this guide is for you.
Everything you need to do to become a registered nurse (RN) in 2024 has been covered in this article, from enrolling in the required courses and exams to securing employment at a hospital or other medical facility.
You’ll be on your way to a fulfilling nursing career by taking the steps outlined here.
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References
- Regiscollege.edu– How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN): Three Key Steps
- Nursinglicensemap.com
- Nurse.org
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