Registered Nurses
How to Become a Registered Nurse
In today's society, every single one of us relies on medical assistance, at some point or another. When we are injured or battling a serious illness, we want a registered nurse to help with the situation. Though most never acknowledge the fact that we rely on such assistance, it is clear that nurses have one of the most important duties on earth: to keep people alive.
As a registered nurse, the amount of responsibility is always a stressful reminder. After all, it is their job to prevent disease, assist patients with their illnesses, and save people's lives. This usually includes helping during surgeries, performing examinations, and administering medications. Regardless of what duty is most necessary, nurses find themselves constantly needed. With currently over 2.3 million jobs in the field, it is no wonder why job opportunities are continuously sky rocketing.
While most of us assume that a nurse takes on every role, there are actually many different types of nursing positions. One of the most popular occupations is a hospital nurse, which makes up the largest group of all registered nurses. In these circumstances, nurses generally stick to one specialized area, perhaps surgery, the emergency room, or even maternity. Although some may rotate every few weeks, people find it easier to dedicate themselves to one department.
Office nurses, on the other hand, are more focused on working at a doctor's office or a surgical center that is strictly for outpatients. This requires the nurse to assist with examinations, give injections, take blood, dress wounds and incisions, inform the patient about any necessary information, as well as perform laboratory work.
In addition to office nurses, there are also nursing care facility nurses. These employees are responsible for taking care of patients who suffer from Alzheimer's disease to someone who is coping with a fracture. In some cases they may even be employed by a rehabilitation center - for those who are battling a stroke, head injuries, or even cancer. By evaluating their patient's record and performing common procedures, they are undoubtedly able to take care of their patient.
Another common position in the nursing field is a home health nurse. This type of occupation is generally needed when someone is extremely ill or going through childbirth. Often times nurses have to take care of a patient around the clock, perhaps someone who is battling cancer or another serious illness.
Although the life of a registered nurse is quite stressful, they almost always work in a well lighted, comfortable facility. While home health nurses frequently travel to their client's home, most nurses stay in one place. This includes hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or doctor's offices. Unfortunately, a registered nurse may have to take the pressure home with them, when the day is done. Not only do registered nurses have to sometimes work night shifts, weekends, holidays, and other ghastly hours, but they constantly have to be on call.
That's right - it doesn't matter if they are in Florida visiting their family or on a date, many have to be ready to work. Fortunately, there are registered nurses (such as occupational and public health nurses) who have more normal hours. After all, if one is assisting in a doctor's office, most of the time they are only open 9-5.
Additionally, registered nurses have to put themselves in potential danger. Many find themselves getting accidentally poked by needles, being shocked by the equipment, and even exposing themselves to harmful diseases. Moreover, they have to deal with back pain and injury, as they are required to help move patients. It certainly is not a breeze for nurses to work around the clock, but at the end of the day, it is rewarding to know that you have saved or affected someone's life. That alone should make everything worth it.
Qualifications for Registered Nurses
In order to become a registered nurse, there are a plethora of requirements. After all, putting someone's life in your hands is a huge responsibility, thus it is important to be educated and knowledgeable. Most states require that a registered nurse not only graduates from a four year nursing program, but also has passed the national licensing exam. Moreover, a handful of internships is necessary to secure a steady job in the field.
Fortunately, there are many different routes to take, before becoming a registered nurse. A bachelor's of science degree in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing and a diploma are all ways to succeed. No matter what you choose, it is important to remember that the advanced degrees will allow you to do more. Hospitals and other facilities want to know that you have a strong background in the field.
Before deciding on a nursing program, individuals should analyze whether or not this is the right field for them. It requires a large amount of time, energy, and effort. If you are not responsible, sympathetic, detail oriented, and caring, chances are likely that a nursing position is not for you. Furthermore, you must be able to supervise others; work with other doctor's and nurses, as well as cope with death. It becomes difficult to watch others suffer, but at some point, you need to distance yourself, in order to continue. Human suffering is a common scene in any health field situation, thus one must be strong and ready to handle such issues.
When you begin your registered nursing program, education will be exceptionally varied. From clinical experience in an actual hospital setting to classroom instruction and laboratories - it is important to grasp every concept that is thrown your way. Regrettably, this is one field that you have to constantly be alert in. You cannot simply forget a term or a piece of information. It may be vital to remember when you begin your time as a nurse. Additionally, students are required to take anatomy, physiology, chemistry, nutrition, and psychology courses. In the end, these courses may help with a situation in the future.
While registered nurses can specialize in pediatrics, maternity, and other areas, some nurses enjoy working in a business environment. From health planning and development to marketing, consulting, teaching students, or even recruiting fellow nurses - there are opportunities to stay in the field, without having to deal with the overwhelming stress that comes along with this type of career.
Other Opportunities
Do you love working with people, but just can't seem to deal with being a nurse? There are hundreds of other positions in the health care industry, ones that don't require as much responsibility, stress, and physical pain. Emergency health technicians, physical therapists, paramedics, occupational therapists, physician assistants, social workers, as well as respiratory therapists are wonderful related occupations. Nevertheless, many will find that any position in the healthcare field is a bit overwhelming. One must be ready to tackle a handful of difficult situations - ones that may be hard to cope with. To put someone else's life in your hands is a stressful task, but it is entirely worth it if you are ready for a rewarding career.