How to become a Registered Nurse (RN)

A registered nurse (RN) is a high-level healthcare professional who has completed the required training to earn a registered nursing license in their state. RNs provide individualized care for their patients whenever needed. They also issue orders to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and make decisions about patient care, meaning they have a high level of responsibility and authority within their workplaces.

Duties of an RN may include:

• Assessing patients’ conditions
• Recording patients’ medical histories and symptoms
• Observing patients and recording the observations
• Consulting and collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals
• Operating and monitoring medical equipment
• Administering patients’ medication and treatments and monitoring for therapeutic effects
• Creating plans for patients’ care
• Educating patients and their families on how to manage illnesses or injuries
• Contributing information to existing plans with other members of the healthcare team
• Assisting with diagnostic tests and analyzing the results
• Provide discharge planning to patients and their family as they prepare to transition to the home environment

An RN can specialize in various fields, such as oncology, pediatrics, and hospice care.

LPNs who want to further their careers may study to become an RN. RNs seeking the next level of advancement may continue their studies in graduate programs to become clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners.

Benefits

RNs may earn competitive salaries and often have flexible schedules that allow them to set their own hours. It is possible to have multiple options when looking for work, including public hospitals, private practices, and government agencies.

For instance, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is generally on the lookout for skilled and qualified registered nurses, meaning you may be able to gain access to the perks of government work along with the benefits of becoming an RN.

Drawbacks

Scheduling flexibility can also translate to working holidays and overnight shifts, which can be physically and mentally draining. Regular exposure to hazardous materials and contagious diseases is also part of the job.

1. Earn your degree from a licensed ADN or BSN program. Choosing an RN program at Jersey College helps to provide you with extensive practical experience in labs and clinicals.
2. Pass the NCLEX exam, get licensed in your state, and find employment.
3. Earn your board certification and maintain it through continuing education.

If you're an LPN, you can climb to the next career level via the LPN-to-RN Bridge Program at Jersey College.

Educational Requirements

In general, two degrees are conferred on RNs, depending on their program.

• An ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) program, such as the one offered by Jersey College, educates students without bachelor's degrees or prior training in nursing. Our curriculum follows a holistic model that teaches students how to care for patients' physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs, along with leadership and management skills. You can earn an associate's degree in just two years.
• A BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) covers the same material as an ADN at a deeper level but takes a minimum of four years to complete. Note: you may also see “ABSN” means that it is an accelerated BSN program. These are generally for candidates who already have a bachelor's degree in another field from an accredited institution.

Credential Requirements

You must be licensed to work as an RN in a healthcare setting. After completing your degree coursework, clinical hours, and passing the NCLEX exam, getting licensed in your state is the final step to becoming a registered nurse. Each state has different requirements, and you may need to renew your license periodically through additional training courses.

RNs can work in operating rooms, ICUs, and neonatal care units in state, local, and private hospitals. They administer medications, prioritize patient care, delegate tasks to assistants, and handle emergencies.

In nursing homes and residential care centers, the responsibilities of RNs may include monitoring residents and advising families on the best care options while administering medication as needed.

RNs in ambulatory healthcare facilities work as dedicated support staff for doctors and other nurses. They collect patient data, administer medications, and monitor patients.

• The National Council of State Boards of Nursing provides news, practice tests, licensing information, and access to exam notices for RNs.
• The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing is a specialized nursing accrediting agency with a directory of accredited programs.
• The Association for Nursing Professional Development is dedicated to advancing specialty practices for RNs.
• The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses provides information and community support for RNs specializing in acute and critical care.

The first step to applying to Jersey College is to get in touch with the admissions department. Choose your location to view the contact information for your nearest campus!

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If you're not ready, take time to look over each Jersey College campus. Review the available programs, review our financial aid options, and request more information if needed!

• How to Become an LPN
• Nursing School Guide