For the Prospective Nurse

Career Paths
 
Let's examine what nurses typically do, what it takes to become a nurse, and how to research the field before committing. The necessary coursework and licensure are steps toward becoming a nurse. Regardless of the path you choose, the journey follows this general timeline:

• Obtain the required credentials

• Complete the necessary training

• Obtain the required license.

For instance, obtaining a high school or general equivalency diploma, finishing the required college courses (usually biology, chemistry, and anatomy as prerequisites), enrolling in an approved associate degree nursing (ADN) or bachelor degree nursing (BSN) program, completing clinical hours, and then applying for and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) are the steps typically required to become a registered nurse. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) complete a year-long program before taking the NCLEX-PN, while certified nursing assistants (CNAs) finish a shorter course and then sit for the state exam.

Education and Licensure

In general, admission to nursing schools requires prerequisites, often in the sciences and mathematics. Most of the time, you can take them at a nearby community college or even in high school if your school allows dual enrollment or advanced placement. As a high school student, you can take biology or health science classes to get a sense of the nursing profession. After completing your chosen program, the next step is to apply to your state's nursing board to take the licensing exam. Registered nurses take the NCLEX-RN, licensed practical nurses take the NCLEX-PN, and certified nursing assistants take the state CNA exam. Becoming a nurse begins with taking the exam, which is usually administered online, and obtaining your nursing license. Once you pass, you will be able to work legally. Regulations like “BSN in 10” mandate that registered nurses who began their careers as ADNs obtain a BSN within a specific time frame. Don't panic just yet; many registered nurses earn their bachelor's degree in nursing, often through part-time or even online programs. Examining nursing before committing is a smart idea. Gaining insights into the healthcare sector by volunteering or shadowing a nurse is one of the best options. Spend a few hours, if not more, observing a nurse at work. Even if your only volunteer duties involve delivering mail or escorting patients to their rooms, you will still gain an understanding of the hospital and watch nurses in action.

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Another excellent option is to become a certified nursing assistant or medical assistant, even if only temporarily. In this way, you can earn a living wage while working in the healthcare industry. As I mentioned earlier, as a certified nursing assistant, you assist patients and closely observe routine nursing duties. My sense of self-worth increased by taking this route, and I realized how much I loved interacting with patients. If you cannot formally “shadow,” you can always approach nurses you know through personal connections; perhaps a family member or school counselor can help. Asking about their daily experiences will give you an understanding of their routine. Programs and associations for school nurses are additional options to consider. At some nearby high schools and community colleges, the “Future Nurses” group frequently conducts workshops on cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid. By attending one, you can determine whether you enjoy the medical side of things. You can stay informed by reading nursing blogs (like this one!), watching nursing-related videos on YouTube, or participating in forums for pre-nursing students.

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You are not alone if you feel overwhelmed; connecting with other nursing students or recent graduates online can provide you with real stories, both good and bad. Emotions and academics are part of the expected outcomes. Nurses learn through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The academic agenda includes a lot of science and rote memorization. Fundamentals include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology. I remember feeling completely overwhelmed by the sheer number of drug names when I first began studying pharmacology. It became manageable after I learned to categorize medications based on their intended uses and employed mnemonic devices. It's common to feel burdened; in fact, most nursing students report that the program is “very difficult.” But remember that success is possible if you work hard and don't give up.

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The time spent on lab and clinical rotations will accumulate as well. Initially, you may practice taking vital signs or administering injections using a mannequin or your peers. Eventually, you will have the opportunity to enter medical facilities and supervise actual patients. It's natural to feel both anxious and excited, so prepare yourself. My voice and hands were shaking when I awkwardly introduced myself to a patient as a first-year medical student. At the end of that shift, I was discreetly recording her medications because you learn so much in such a short time. As a clinical student, you may encounter particularly ill patients or hear heartbreaking stories. Experiencing sadness or crying occasionally is completely normal. Many nursing students discuss how they have cried after particularly challenging clinical experiences. You need a support system of people in your network.

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As students, celebrate each other's victories and setbacks, and support one another through difficulties. To cope, take good care of yourself. A healthy diet, regular breaks, and adequate sleep are all essential. Studying in short bursts with breaks is far more effective than staying up late, which only makes the next day harder. Some students recommend writing or meditation as effective ways to de-stress after a demanding day. Take up a hobby, chat with friends, or go for a run if your workload feels overwhelming. Asking for help when needed is perfectly acceptable in the classroom. If you struggle to understand any material (like heart rhythms or mathematical conversions), seek assistance right away from your teachers or tutors. They would prefer to support you now rather than watch you struggle later.

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It is typical for nurses to experience the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with their first year of nursing school. A friend told me, “Although it is stressful, you will find friends who feel just as bewildered as you do, and eventually it becomes normal. Thank goodness you are here”. I ultimately concluded that nursing was the ideal career choice for me due to its problem-solving and compassionate nature. Then consider the bigger picture: working as a nurse can be a very fulfilling career. You truly have the potential to change the lives of those around you. Waking up early and staying up late to study is worthwhile. If you find great satisfaction in providing deep, individualized care, a career in nursing may be for you. Take it step-by-step, learn as much as you can, and have faith in yourself. Great places to start include exploring programs, speaking with nurses, and even volunteering. Every day spent starting your training will teach you more about the possibilities within nursing.

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Best wishes on your journey; the world needs compassionate nurses like you!

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- Miriam

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