Requirements to Become a Registered Nurse or Midwife
A registered nurse or RN is a professional nurse who has fulfilled all of the state educational and licensing requirements for nurses. Many RNs work as general nurses in hospitals and doctor's offices, while others decide to specialize in one particular area of nursing. Some registered nurses decide to become midwives, nurses who provide support and guidance to new mothers during the pregnancy and birthing process. In most cases midwives are also registered nurses but not always.
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Licensed Midwifes Versus Certified Midwife
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There are often two paths to becoming a midwife, depending on the state you live in. Certified midwives are registered nurses who fulfill all the same educational requirements as other registered nurses. They obtain a degree in nursing and pass required state licensing exams to become certified RNs. They elect courses related to midwifery but also learn a broad range of nursing-related skills. After graduating they further specialize in midwifery, learning the necessary skills for this more specific side of nursing. This is the more common path to becoming a midwife. Your other option is to become a licensed midwife. This requires successful completion of midwifery school, which unlike more general nursing schools, is tailored specifically to midwifery. Licensed midwifery programs are available in a limited number of states.
Registered Nurse Education
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Candidates who wish to become certified midwives or non-midwife registered nurses must first complete a nursing program. Most programs last between two and four years, depending on the program. Associate degree programs usually take two years to complete, while bachelor's degree programs take four. Typically, coursework includes anatomy and physiology, psychology, microbiology, chemistry, medical and surgical nursing, medical ethics, mental health nursing and geriatric nursing. Upon graduating, an individual must take and pass a national licensing exam to become a registered nurse.
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Work Experience
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Whether you want to be a registered nurse, licensed midwife or certified midwife, you should be able to demonstrate some relevant work experience in the field. Volunteering in a hospital, blood drive, community health center or clinic can help build your credentials for this career. Midwife candidates may volunteer or have experience working at Planned Parenthood or similar organization. While in nursing school, inquire about internships and volunteer programs that let you work in your chosen area of nursing.
Skills and Personal Qualities
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Individuals who wish to become nurses and midwives must possess a certain set of skills and personal qualities. Patience, integrity and compassion are all very important for nurses and midwives. Candidates should have strong communication skills and be able to relate to a wide range of patients from various walks of life. Midwives and nurses should be highly dedicated and willing to work long hours.
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References
- Photo Credit Scrub Nurse image by Mary Beth Granger from Fotolia.com
