Qualifications for a Registered Nursing Job
In general, registered nurses need formal training from a university or nursing program in order to practice. Registered nurses can earn a bachelor's or associate degree. Some may choose to earn a diploma from a nursing program. All prospective nurses must pass a national examination to earn a nursing license. Those who choose to specialize in a specific area of registered nursing, like anesthesiology or midwifery, must possess a master's degree.
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Education Requirements
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Registered nurses can obtain an education in one of three ways. They may earn a bachelor's of science degree in nursing, or BSN, from a four year university. They could also earn an associate degree in nursing, or ADN, from a community college, which would take approximately two or three years. The third option is to earn a diploma from a hospital program, which would take approximately three years. Nurses with a BSN will have more opportunities for advancement in their careers, according the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Training and Certification
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Every nursing program allows students to gain supervised hands-on clinical experience on top of classroom instruction. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states, "Students take courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology and other behavioral sciences, and nursing." Hospitals provide students with the opportunity to gain experience in various departments, such as maternity, psychiatry, surgery, and pediatrics. Once students graduate, they are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination to earn their nursing license, according to the BLS.
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Character Qualifications
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Because registered nurses deal directly with patients, they need to be personable, sympathetic, caring and responsible. They should have an exceptional eye for detail to make sure each patient gets the appropriate medical treatment. Other registered nursing qualifications include emotional stability, an interest in continued education and the ability to supervise others.
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References
- Photo Credit nursing duties image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
