How to Get A Job As A Geriatric Nurse

As medical knowledge advances and healthier living becomes the norm, people are living much longer. As the aging population increases, so does the need for Geriatric Nurses. Although Geriatric Nursing is one of the most demanding, and stressful branches of nursing, it is also one of the most rewarding. If you have any interest in a nursing career, there is a place for you in the field of Geriatrics.

Instructions

1. Volunteer! If you are still in High School, and are interested in a career as a Geriatric nurse, begin by getting some volunteer experience. Go either to you local volunteer agency, senior center or hospital. You will most certainly be able to get some experience working with seniors and begin to acquaint yourself with their specific needs. Volunteering will get your started on the way to becoming a Geriatric Nurse.

2. Prepare! To become a Geriatric Nurse you must enjoy working with older adults. You must be patient, compassionate, cheerful, have good communication skills, be well organized and able to remain calm in stressful situations. Practice these skills in your daily life, in your relationships with your family and friends, in school, in your job, and in your community.

3. Begin early! If you are still in High School, and wish to become a Geriatric Nurse, you should take courses in English, Anatomy, Biology, Physiology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Psychology, Health Sciences, Nutrition, or any others that deal with medical issues. If any of these are not offered at your High School, you might consider taking an on-line course during your holidays.

4. 

   Get the right education! If you are interested in Geriatric Nursing and have now completed High School, you will need to first become a Registered Nurse. To do this you will need to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. This will take you four years. Make inquiries at your local College or University. State your interest in Geriatric Nursing and learn what is offered in this area. Facilities vary from State to State so when you choose a program, keep your personal goals in mind.
   ** Remember, the nursing profession needs and welcomes males as well as females. It is an honorable and rewarding profession for all those who are interested.

5. Get licensed! After you obtain your Bachelor Degree, you will have to pass a national licensing exam. This will enable you to practice as a Registered Nurse. With two years experience as a Registered Nurse(this may vary from State to State) and additional training in geriatrics, you will be eligible for certification as a Gerontological Nurse Specialist.

6. Get advanced education! If you have an interest in advancing further into Geriatric research, administration, consulting or education, you must obtain a Master of Science Degree in Nursing. With experience and training this would enable you to become a Clinical Nurse specialist or Gerontological Nurse Practitioner. Remember, the more education and experience you have, the greater will be the demand for your services.

7. 

   Meet the challenge! As a Geriatric nurse, you must preform all the duties of any nurse but you will have additional challenges. You must accept the fact that, in spite of all your efforts and the powers of modern medicine, advancing age can quickly worsens many conditions. You must be able to endure the inevitable decline and death of many individuals you have cared for and come to love. If you are prepared to face these challenges, there is a steadily increasing population of Americans waiting for your help.