How To Become A Nurse
Becoming a successful nurse requires the same dedication and hard work as any specialty in the medical sector. Long hours and hectic work schedules are to be expected along with learning to deal with all types of sicknesses and tragedies. Academically, candidates need to complete required degree or diploma programs and sit for examinations designed to test their skills and knowledge.
• Aspirants must complete either a nursing degree program in the form of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or an Associate Degree in Nursing. A third option is a diploma program in a hospital. Subjects covered include anatomy, microbiology, psychology, chemistry and nutrition in addition to nursing.
• Once the degree or diploma has been obtained, candidates will have to sit for a national licensing exam to qualify them to practice. Some states require nurses to pass an additional exam if they wish to practice in another state. However, most are members of a licensure agreement so sitting for a single exam will suffice
• With a degree/diploma and a license in hand nurses are ready to apply for their first jobs as professionals. As experience is gained they can seek better opportunities. A point to note is that having a specialty like pediatric nursing or oncology nursing opens more doors for employment.