what course to take to become a nurse

by Prof. Brando Gislason 6 min read

Entry-level classes include anatomy, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, and psychology. If you advance your education, you'll dive deeper into subjects like emergency care, nursing research, and population-based practice.

What classes and education are needed to become a nurse?

Oct 20, 2021 · Aspiring RNs usually take a set of pre-nursing courses like anatomy and physiology, psychology, and microbiology. Students also gain hands-on clinical experience at the basic, intermediate, and advanced levels throughout their program. Other common concepts explored in a nursing program include: Patient care techniques ; Medical assessments ; …

What are the subjects needed to become a nurse?

Steps to Becoming a Nurse Step 1. Attend an Accredited Nursing Program. Whatever route you choose - be it CNA, LPN, ADN, BSN, or anything else -... Step 2: Become Licensed. You've got your degree, but you're not done yet. Now you need to prove your …

What college degree do you need to become a nurse?

Mar 09, 2022 · The course is fully accredited and will cover everything you need to know ahead of your undergraduate studies including: Cell biology Human nutrition The digestive system Growth and development Approaches to health Human disease and prevention The nervous system

What educational requirements do you need to become a nurse?

Mar 02, 2022 · Introductory psychology is typically a prerequisite course needed to enter nursing programs. It covers principles and practices of psychology and helps nurses understand both psychology as a medical discipline, and how to use applied psychology as a …

How long does it take to become a practical nurse?

Becoming a licensed practical or vocational nurse requires completing a certificate or diploma program in practical nursing. LPN programs typically take a year to complete and include both classroom and clinical training. Acceptance into a program requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Oftentimes, these programs require you ...

How long is a nursing degree?

Registered nursing programs are 2-4 years in length and can lead to a diploma, associate's degree or bachelor's degree. Some individuals who have completed a 2-year degree program transfer into 4-year programs to take additional nursing courses. Earning a bachelor's degree can lead to career opportunities in research, teaching, consulting or administration. Additionally, if you already hold a bachelor's degree in another major, accelerated 1-year nursing programs are available. As with LPN programs, RN programs require you to have completed some prerequisite courses before you may enroll.

What classes do you take in LPN?

The coursework you encounter during an LPN program can include anatomy and physiology, human biology and general psychology. You'll be introduced to the foundations of nursing and learn about nursing for different points in a patient's lifespan. In addition to classroom and lab coursework, you'll gain supervised clinical experience.

What do nurses do?

Nurses assist physicians in providing healthcare to individuals. The exact duties that you'd perform depend on your level of training. Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or vocational nurse requires less training than does becoming a registered nurse (RN). As an LPN, you'd work under the supervision of RNs and perform basic nursing duties, such as taking a patient's blood pressure, changing dressings, inserting catheters, helping patients bathe and collecting samples for laboratory tests. You'd report the status of your patients to RNs and doctors.

What are the different types of nursing?

You'll be trained in different types of nursing, such as medical-surgical, obstetric, pediatric and mental health nursing. You may also be required to take a research course if you choose to enroll in a bachelor's degree program. As an RN student, you'll be required to gain supervised clinical experience as well.

What do you learn in an ADN program?

What You'll Learn in an ADN Program. The ADN program is focused solely on nursing core classes and clinicals. Classes focus on the clinical aspect of nursing instead of the leadership, research, and management focus seen in other nursing programs.

What degree do you need to be an ADN nurse?

One major difference related to job availability for ADN nurses is some healthcare systems will only hire nurses with a bachelor’s degree. This is directly related to Magnet status and accreditation.

How much does a nurse anesthetist make?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the average income of a nurse anesthetist to be $169,450 per year , with some CRNAs earning over $252,000.

How long does a CNA license last?

Once certified, CNA licenses typically last for two years.

What is an LPN?

An LPN is responsible for providing patients with essential care, which includes helping them to eat, dress, bathe, etc. They also assist Registered Nurses and doctors in keeping detailed records, maintaining clear communication between the entire care team and working with patients and their families.

How long does it take to get a BSN?

A BSN can typically be completed in three to four years and you'll find them at traditional university.

What is a CNA?

A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, help patients with activities of daily living and other healthcare needs under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). CNA’s are also commonly referred to as a Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Assistant (PCA), or a Nurse’s Aid.

A levels

A Levels are the most common route into university for UK students. With most universities asking for 2 (preferably 3) A Levels to apply for their courses.

Access to Higher Education Diploma

An Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) is a great alternative. It’s a level 3 qualification so equivalent to A Level study.

Foundation Degree

A foundation degree is not dissimilar to the Access to HE Diploma. As the focused course content aims to get you onto an undergraduate degree programme.

What do nurses do?

The question, “What does a nurse do?” is more complex than it might seem. A question that might be more helpful is, “What does an RN do?” More helpful information may surface if you specify the type of nursing you’re interested in. Here are some responsibilities that are important across many different nursing specialties: 1 Assess the condition of their patients 2 Record patient’s medical data and relevant behavior 3 Work and communicate efficiently with other members of the healthcare team 4 Effectively use and maintain medical equipment 5 Assist in forming a treatment plan 6 Assess patient and families teaching needs, develop an individualized teaching plan and provide relevant teaching 7 Advise families on the condition of the patient and post-hospital care

What is a masters in nursing?

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a higher-level nursing degree. In most cases, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required before starting an MSN program. Many MSN programs are offered online and allow students to take courses on either part-time or full-time basis. An interesting characteristic of this higher-level degree is that it’s very customizable. Depending on a scholar’s goals, the MSN can be helpful in a lot of different ways. Individuals in this degree program have the opportunity to take courses to improve their general nursing knowledge and skill, take coursework catered toward specialty skills in specific areas of nursing, or they can take a step back from direct nursing practices and learn about education, leadership, or business. In addition, at the graduate level, students can pursue an MSN and become a nurse practitioner. Being able to decide exactly what to focus on is very helpful for individuals looking to reach specific career goals.

What is a BSN program?

BSN programs consist of general education liberal arts courses, nursing specific courses, and clinical education. BSN programs provide a wide variety of clinical experiences for students which often helps the student decide what nursing specialty they may want to pursue after graduation.

How many years of coursework is required for an associates degree in nursing?

This degree program is designed to develop individuals in solid foundational knowledge, attitudes and the skills for nursing practice. With only two to three years of required coursework, the associate degree requires the least amount of time and money invested of all the degree options. After the coursework is completed, individuals must pass the national licensure examination (NCLEX).

What is an accelerated nursing program?

An accelerated nursing program is a very specific option for individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field of study. Some previous relevant coursework from the prior degree (s) would count towards completion of the accelerated program.

How long does it take to become a nurse?

The minimum amount of time needed to become a practicing nurse would be the 2 - 3 years of coursework associated with an associate degree in nursing. A bachelor’s degree takes 3 - 4 years of coursework. A master’s degree usually takes from 2 - 5 years depending if you go part-time or full-time.

How long does it take to get a BSN?

Most individuals can earn their BSN degree in 12-16 months, depending on the program. Your participation in an accelerated degree program, along with your resulting bachelor’s degree in nursing, will be very desirable in the job market.

What is the BSN in Pace College?

Pace College includes gerontology among its BSN curriculum. Gerontology is the study of older adult humans, and although some nurses may not require this course, it’s a standard in most teaching curriculums as it deals with what the majority of hospital patients will be like. This course studies the safety of elderly patients, disease prevention, and geriatric syndromes. Students will discover the link between medications and illnesses within the elderly community, and learn about transitioning care environments, dealing with loss, and end of life issues.

Why is pharmacology important?

Pharmacology is an important part of a registered nurses job; so much of the course is dedicated to safety and administering medications among patients. There is also information on interventions, maintenance, and restoration, along with adverse effects that drugs can have on patients and how to treat this issue.

What is nursing fundamentals?

Nursing Fundamentals includes a broad range of information involving the practical side of nursing and what is required of you. It will usually include discussions, demonstrations and lab work for simulations and hands on experience. Assessing disorders, determining treatments, teaching nursing, health promotion, ...

What is ethics in nursing?

Ethics courses work to enhance ethical thinking within the nursing field for decision making that pertains to questionable circumstances and biomedical issues. Professionalism, codes of conduct, technology, confidentiality, abuse, and refusal of treatments are all discussed within this course. Students will usually participate in projects or case studies to form perspectives, practice concepts, and research case law.

What is leadership management?

Leadership Management is mainly offered through the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program and covers systems leadership, patient safety, and management within the nursing field . Budgeting finances, scheduling staff, managing nursing departments, controlling quality, delegating tasks, and managing risk are all covered within this course. Students will also learn about ethics and legal roles within the nursing industry.

What is mental health nursing?

Mental Health is a huge section of nursing in nearly any field of work, and the course covers a variety of issues facing patients today. Illnesses that affect both children and adults are covered, along with concepts relating to mental health such as neurobiology and psychosocial theories. Students are usually encouraged to partake in a practical period during this program in which a mental health facility is viewed.

What is the importance of women and infants in nursing?

These types of courses often cover the concepts of care for women and newborns, as well as women’s health through menstruation and menopause.

How old do you have to be to become a nursing assistant?

The minimum age to become an LNA is 16-18 years old, so some students get certified and work part-time as a nursing assistant while still in high school.

What is an APRN?

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) / Nurse Practitioner. APRNs can prescribe medication, treat and diagnose illnesses, and more with less or no supervision from a medical doctor, depending on the state. This requires at least a master’s degree in addition to the education and licenses required to become an RN.

How long does it take to become a LPN?

This job requires graduating from an accredited LPN program, usually two years at a technical school or community college.

What does a nurse do?

Nurses are often on the frontlines of patient care and provide healthcare, treatments, and management of the entire patient experience. You probably interact with a nurse when you go for your annual health checkup, as they often take your general health measurements (such as blood pressure), and administer shots.

What is the highest salary in California?

According to Nurse.org, the highest, in California, is $102,700, while the lowest is South Dakota at $57,010. Nursing is a profession that sees high job security and will always be necessary.

Is a nurse the same as a doctor?

In some cases, a nurse may even perform the same responsibilities as a doctor. The job requires both strong medical knowledge as well as empathy, respect, and compassion to help ensure the patient gets the best care possible. Nursing has many specializations and levels of study. These include:

Is two year college better than four year college?

There are options if a two-year college works better for you than a four-year one. This might be the case if you need to work while you study, or if you studied something else in undergrad and come to nursing later on. Or, if you’re aiming for a traditional four-year path, you can take that too!

What is cosmetic nursing?

Aesthetic/cosmetic nurses are registered nurses who provide a variety of services. These can include injections of dermal fillers and Botox neurotoxin; photofacials; dermabrasion; micro-needling; tattoo removal; and non-surgical body contouring.

How much does a cosmetic nurse make?

ZipRecruiter reports that the average annual pay for a cosmetic nurse is $85,621, though some cosmetic nurses are earning as much as $124,000, with the middle 25th percentile of the country ranging from $69,000 to $99,500.

Why do aesthetic nurses work?

In addition to being able to work in an environment dedicated to improving patient quality of life, aesthetic nurses can also build long-term relationships with patients who return for maintenance of existing treatments or to investigate additional treatments.

How often do you need to be recertified as a cosmetic nurse?

Aesthetic/cosmetic nurses who meet the requirements for Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist status need to be recertified every three years. Requirements for recertification include accumulating 45 contact hours with at least two hours related specifically to patient safety.

What can I do after getting a nursing degree?

After getting your degree and licensure as a registered nurse, look for jobs in skincare clinics, cosmetic surgery practices, or similar areas of the medical field. Then you can seek certification from the Plastic Surgical Nursing Nursing Certification Board (PSNCB).

How much will the need for nurses grow in the US in 2029?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that registered nurse jobs are expected to grow by 7% through the year 2029.

How to become an aesthetic nurse?

If you want to become an aesthetic nurse, you’ll need to complete the following steps. Step 1. Earn Your Registered Nurse Degree. Becoming an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse begins with a registered nurse degree, which you can earn through either a two-year associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree.

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An Overview of Nursing

  • Nurses assist physicians in providing healthcare to individuals. The exact duties that you'd perform depend on your level of training. Becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or vocational nurse requires less training than does becoming a registered nurse (RN). As an LPN, you'd work under the supervision of RNs and perform basic nursing duties, such as taking a patient's blood
See more on learn.org

Educational Requirements For LPNs

  • Becoming a licensed practical or vocational nurse requires completing a certificate or diploma program in practical nursing. LPN programs typically take a year to complete and include both classroom and clinical training. Acceptance into a program requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Oftentimes, these programs require you to have taken biology, chemistry, and algebr…
See more on learn.org

Coursework

  • The coursework you encounter during an LPN program can include anatomy and physiology, human biology and general psychology. You'll be introduced to the foundations of nursing and learn about nursing for different points in a patient's lifespan. In addition to classroom and lab coursework, you'll gain supervised clinical experience.
See more on learn.org

Educational Requirements For RNS

  • Registered nursing programs are 2-4 years in length and can lead to a diploma, associate's degree or bachelor's degree. Some individuals who have completed a 2-year degree program transfer into 4-year programs to take additional nursing courses. Earning a bachelor's degree can lead to career opportunities in research, teaching, consulting or administration. Additionally, if you alrea…
See more on learn.org

Advanced Education

  • If you're a licensed nurse who holds a bachelor's degree in nursing, you may have the opportunity to go on to pursue more advanced or specialized training within a graduate program. Earning a master's or doctoral degree could enable you to become an advanced practice nurse, such as a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist or nurse midwife. As an advanced practice nurse, you coul…
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Licensure Requirements

  • To work as an LPN or RN, you need to become licensed. This means passing the appropriate National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for your level after graduating from an approved program. Be sure to check with your state for any additional licensure requirements.
See more on learn.org