How to Become a Registered Nurse – Salary & Requirements for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The healthcare industry is great for those looking for meaningful and fulfilling work, physical and mental challenges, diverse specialty options, career growth opportunities, collaborative team dynamics, high earning potential, and job security. After all, the medical field is always busy, and there will always be a spot for qualified professionals. At the other end of the spectrum, there will never be a shortage of people who require medical care.

A career as a registered nurse will be a good fit for you if you wish to work in the healthcare industry. It will also make a good starting point if you want to pursue further education and training for advanced or specialized practice. Moreover, the employment outlook for RNs is good, as it is projected to grow 6% until 2031, with more than 200,000 openings expected each year (BLS, 2022).

This guide offers relevant information on how to become a registered nurse. For this, the experts at Research.com have provided the relevant data, including the education requirement for registered nurses, licensing and certification, and salary outlook.

How to Become a Registered Nurse Table of Contents

1. What is a registered nurse?
2. Why become a registered nurse?
3. How to Become a Registered Nurse
4. Must-Have Skills for Registered Nurses
5. Where do RNs work?
6. Typical Job Responsibilities of Registered Nurses
7. Work-Life Balance and Mental Health in Nursing
8. What options are available for LPNs to transition into registered nursing?
9. What financial aid opportunities can support your nursing education?
10. Salary Outlook for Registered Nurses
11. How can I become a certified functional medicine practitioner?
12. How can you choose the right nursing program for your career goals?
13. How can an affordable online DNP program transform your career?
14. How can I assess the accreditation and quality of nursing programs?
15. What are the emerging trends in nursing?
16. Pathways for Non-Nurses to Transition into Registered Nursing
17. What is the fastest RN certification program for aspiring nurses?
18. How can registered nurses advance their careers further?

What is a registered nurse?

A registered nurse (RN) is a licensed medical professional with a nursing degree who provides hands-on patient care in a medical setting. Your first concern, then, is how to become a registered nurse.

To become an RN, you must complete all the educational requirements of your nursing school and pass the national licensure examination. You will also need your state to grant you the license to practice.

Registered Nurse vs Licensed Practical Nurse

RNs and licensed practical nurses (LPN) are different in that registered nurses qualifications are higher. LPNs have a lesser scope of practice and work under the supervision of RNs and doctors. LPNs perform basic medical tasks like feeding patients and making sure they are comfortable, checking their vital signs, and maintaining an open line of communication between patients and their healthcare providers.

Registered Nurse vs. Nurse Practitioner

Both RNs and nurse practitioners (NP) focus on patient care, but their roles differ in that NPs can prescribe treatments, diagnose patients, and order tests, while RNs cannot. Registered nurses work under a physician, whereas NPs exercise greater autonomy and responsibility.

NPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who also have to start with a registered nurses education and begin their careers as RNs before pursuing an NP-focused graduate degree. As such, RNs may opt to specialize in a particular field and become NPs after they complete online NP programs, the required number of clinical hours, earn a Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a related doctoral degree, and pass the national NP board certification exam.

Why become a registered nurse?

There are many reasons why you should consider becoming an RN. With what education is needed to become a registered nurse, you already get invaluable life-saving knowledge and skills. But when you are officially in the workforce as an RN, you’d see that there are more benefits:

Being an RN is rewarding and fulfilling. Having a career that allows you to provide care to patients and help them live longer, and healthier lives will give you a sense of fulfillment. Whether you are caring for patients as they recover from a sickness, helping them prepare for a very important surgery, giving them and their family support and words of encouragement, advocating for their rights, or just making their hospital stay comfortable, you have a real and tangible impact on people’s lives and even on your direct community. These innate qualities will serve you well in your quest to master how to become a registered nurse.

Nursing offers diverse work opportunities. As an RN, you have many options to choose from because you can work in a wide variety of roles and in many environments. For example, you can work in a large hospital, a doctor’s private practice, a clinic, a correctional facility, a nursing care facility, or a rehabilitation facility. Even schools, cruise ships, military bases, and health insurance companies need RNs. You can also work with medical disaster teams, homecare services, courts of law, and medical transport.

Moreover, you can pick from many specialty areas in nursing, like oncology, pediatric, geriatric, critical care, and even informatics.

There is high demand for RNs. RNs, especially those with a bachelor’s degree, are in high demand in the U.S., and employment opportunities for RNs are expected to grow in the next several years. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of RNs is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031. Over this 10-year period, about 203,200 job openings are expected every year. Many of these openings result from current RNs transferring to different occupations or leaving the labor force to retire.

Demand for healthcare services, in general, will increase because of the large aging population and the number of older people with typically have more medical issues than younger people. This is also driving the demand for online genetics masters as the role of genetics is increasingly being recognized in overall health.

RNs have high earning potential. With a career as an RN, you can enjoy a steady financial future and live comfortably.

Nursing is a stable career. There is job stability in being an RN, as your responsibilities will not likely be replaced by artificial intelligence, automation, or outsourced labor. The kind of patient care that RNs do is a hands-on job. Even during economic uncertainty, there are always people requiring medical care, of which nurses are an integral part.

Nursing offers a collaborative team dynamic. RNs work with other medical professionals, so it’s never a solo profession. You get to interact with patients, their families, and other members of the healthcare team, including other nurses. You will also have the chance to interact with the rest of the healthcare team, and even discover what does a medical coder do.

How to Become a Registered Nurse

If you want to know how to become a registered nurse, you first need to know the requirements for nursing degree and your various options. You also need to know how long it will take you to complete these education requirements for registered nursing, as well as how to get your license to practice.

Education

The first step to becoming an RN is to earn either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Some states also grant licenses to those with a diploma from an accredited nursing program.

Nursing degree and education programs in accredited institutions include courses in physiology, anatomy, and social and behavioral sciences. These academic nursing programs will give you the competency to provide essential healthcare services to patients in various settings.

Licensed nursing degree- and diploma-holders would generally qualify for entry-level positions as staff nurses. However, in recent years, more and more states have decided to grant licenses only to those who have completed a BSN. And even in states that still allow ADN and diploma graduates to practice as RNs, a growing number of employers, especially hospitals, require a bachelor’s degree.

License and Certifications

Another essential step in how to become a registered nurse is getting licensed.

To practice as an RN, you need to get a license issued by the state where you will be working. And before the state regulatory board grants you this license, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

The NCLEX will test your knowledge in key areas of the nursing practice to ensure you are prepared for the challenges that come with the job. This exam uses a computerized adaptive testing format, determining every subsequent question based on your performance. The NCLEX takes up to six hours to complete and covers fundamental nursing principles, safe and effective care environment, physiological integrity, and psychosocial integrity. You are required to answer a minimum of 75 and a maximum of 265 questions in the exam. If you don’t pass the NCLEX, you can retake it up to eight times a year, with a minimum interval of 45 days between retakes.

In 2022, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing recorded a 63.39% passing rate for NCLEX-RN.

The board of nursing in each state also has its own specific requirements for licensing other than passing the NCLEX-RN. Some states, for example, would also conduct a criminal background check on you.

RN positions may also require certifications in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), or basic life support (BLS).

Meanwhile, if you are interested to know how to become a nurse who’s board-certified in a specific area, such as ambulatory care, you can check out various professional associations and their certification programs.

How long does it take to become a registered nurse?

It will take you two to four years to become an RN, depending on what degree you complete and your state’s licensing requirements.

An associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) is a two-year program. It covers only the fundamentals of nursing and topics like nutrition, pharmacology, health system concepts, growth, and development. ADN programs also require clinical hours.

A BSN degree, on the other hand, takes four years to complete. It offers more in-depth education and training. Aside from nursing fundamentals, it also offers leadership, communication, and critical thinking courses. That’s because a BSN is often required for administrative, consulting, teaching, or research positions.

You can register for the NCLEX and apply for a license six weeks before you are scheduled to graduate from your nursing degree program.

You can look into online nursing degree programs with accredited institutions to earn a nursing degree while keeping a job.

Suggested Steps on How to Become a Registered Nurse

Becoming an RN does not specify a single definite starting point. You have several options, depending on your financial capacity, your priorities, your state’s requirements, where you are career-wise, and your future goals. The only definite thing is that when you have met your nurse education requirements, you must register for and pass the NCLEX-RN and then apply for a license with your state’s nursing board.

The Fastest Way to Become an RN

If you want to know how to become an RN the fastest way possible, then go for an associate’s degree. This two-year program already makes you eligible to sit at the NCLEX. However, remember that completing an ADN is the quickest path to becoming an RN only if your state grants a license to ADN graduates who passed the NCLEX.

Completing an ADN also makes sense if you want to get started on a career in healthcare and earn money at the soonest possible time. The good thing about it is that you can get a BSN much later. There are ADN-to-BSN bridge programs that allow you to upgrade from an associate’s degree to a bachelor’s degree without having to start from scratch. Such programs also have online components so you can study while working. ADN-to-BSN bridge programs can be completed in two to three years.

The Best and Most Straightforward Way to Become an RN

If you are in a state that only grants RN licenses to BSN graduates, the best and most straightforward way to become an RN is to get a bachelor’s degree. With a BSN, you can cast a much bigger net when it comes to employment. You won’t have difficulty looking for a job in larger hospitals. After getting a license, you can also move to any state and practice as an RN.

Moreover, with a BSN degree, you can pursue further education and become a nurse practitioner or an advanced practice registered nurse. With a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, you can practice in a specialized field and earn much more.

How to Become an RN with a non-BSN Bachelor’s Degree

If you have a bachelor of science degree in a non-nursing field, you can take advantage of an accelerated BSN program. If you study full time, you can get this accelerated BSN degree in as little as 12 to 18 months. It will also depend on how many transferable credits you have.

Must-Have Skills for Registered Nurses

RNs work in different healthcare settings and environments and in different capacities. Each role or position requires a unique set of knowledge and skills. Generally, however, these are the skills you need to have as an RN:

1. Communication skills

As RN, you will act as an intermediary between patients and their healthcare team. So you will often need to clearly convey medical information and explain treatment plans to the patients and their families and answer questions they may have. You also have to collaborate with doctors, technicians, dietitians, or people with a master of nutrition. That means you will need to effectively relay a patient’s concerns to them. Getting a good handle on communication skills is crucial in knowing how to become a registered nurse.

2. Critical thinking

As an RN, you need to think on your feet, come up with alternative solutions, and make quick decisions, as a patient’s condition may change at any moment. Your ability to think critically and quickly assess unexpected or new developments, especially during an emergency, could spell life or death for a patient.

3. Empathy and compassion

As an RN, you may need to deliver difficult news to patients and their families. You may also have to handle patients and families overcome with grief, worry, anxiety, or stress. So even if you are doing what may be just a routine job for you, remember that patients still deserve compassionate care. Your ability to put yourself in the shoes of others, make them feel cared for and important, and always treat them with kindness will make you a great RN.

4. Technology skills

The healthcare industry is adapting to the times and now uses advanced software, electronic medical equipment, portable devices, big data, and even electronic health record systems. So it is important to have the technological savvy to learn to use and operate these technologies in providing optimal patient care.

5. Teamwork

As an RN, you must work with the rest of a patient’s healthcare team. This includes other nurse professionals, doctors, and specialists. You should be able to work collaboratively with them and keep an open line of communication. More importantly, you should know your specific role and the roles of all other healthcare professionals involved in a specific case so you can all perform them synergistically like a well-oiled machine.

6. Social perceptive, service orientation, and active listening

Social perceptiveness is your mindfulness of other people’s reactions and ability to understand why they react the way they do. Service orientation is your ability to actively look for ways to help those in need, which should also be present in veterinary technician programs online students. Active listening, meanwhile, is your ability to give your full attention to what others are saying, including not interrupting them as they speak, fully understanding their point, and asking appropriate questions.

Where do RNs work?

Aside from knowing how to become a registered nurse, you must familiarize yourself with the typical nurse workplace. RNs work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, long-term care facilities, clinics, nursing homes, government facilities, schools, and universities.

Types of RNs and Where They Work

As you learn how to become a registered nurse, you will come across the different types of RNs and where they work. RNs can enroll in nurse education and certification courses and train in an area of specialization. This extra registered nurse schooling can help you become a board-certified or a specific type of RN, which will also determine which hospital unit or healthcare setting you belong to.

The different types of RNs include:

Emergency Room Nurse. ER nurses examine patients, record medical histories, triage patients, and consult with doctors regarding patient care in the hospital emergency room.

Critical Care or ICU Nurse. Critical care RNs work in intensive care units (ICUs) and critical care units (CCUs). They specialize in caring for patients with critical or life-threatening conditions requiring round-the-clock monitoring and care. The Certification for Adult Critical Care Nurses is administered by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACCN).

Medical-Surgical Nurse. Medical-surgical nursing is the largest nursing specialty in the United States. Medical-surgical nurses mostly work in hospital or outpatient settings and care for adult patients with various medical issues or who are preparing for or recovering from surgery. Certifications for medical-surgical nurses are administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and Medical-Surgical Nurse Certification Board (MSNCB).

Gastroenterology Nurse. Gastroenterology nurses help patients with gastrointestinal conditions or diseases involving the digestive system. These RNs might assist doctors during endoscopies and colonoscopies. Certifications for gastroenterology nurses are administered by the American Board of Certification for Gastroenterology Nurses (ABCGN).

Cardiac Nurse. Cardiovascular or cardiac RNs work in hospitals, physician practices, and coronary care units and care for patients with heart diseases like heart failure and cardiac arrest. Certifications for cardiovascular nurses are administered by the AACCN.

Neonatal Nurse. Neonatal nurses specialize in caring for premature newborns and infants with chronic illnesses and life-threatening diseases. They may work in a hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), ICU, CCU, trauma unit, or other healthcare settings. Certifications for neonatal nurses are administered by the AACN.

Oncology Nurse. Oncology nurses provide care to patients with cancer at any stage of the treatment process. They work in a hospital’s oncology unit or in acute care hospitals, private oncologists’ offices, ambulatory care clinics, home healthcare agencies, radiation therapy facilities, and community agencies.

Labor and Delivery Nurse. Labor and delivery nurses perform various tasks at all stages of labor and delivery to help mothers and babies achieve safe and healthy outcomes. Most L&D nurses work in hospitals, specifically in maternity wards, delivery rooms, and nurseries.

Addiction Nurse. Addiction nurses or substance abuse nurses specialize in addiction and work in recovery centers. They may also work in hospitals and outpatient settings. Certifications for addiction nurses are given by the International Nurses Society on Addictions (IntNSA).

Rehabilitation Nurse. Rehabilitation RNs help rehabilitate patients who are chronically ill or disabled, both in inpatient and outpatient settings. They develop and implement care and discharge plans for patients, communicate with their families, supervise ancillary nurses, and work with therapists and online speech pathology masters.

Other RNs. Other types of RNs include plastic surgery RNs, bariatric RNs, geriatric RNs, radiology RNs, orthopedic RNs, mental health or psychiatric nurse, public health RNs, home care RNs, post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) nurses, travel nurses, forensic RNs, military RNs, school nurses, and pediatric care RNs.

Typical Job Responsibilities of Registered Nurses

An RN’s duties and responsibilities depend on where they work, their position and area of specialization, and how long they have worked as an RN. Learning these duties is crucial in how to become a registered nurse, keep your work, and be considered for promotion.

In hospitals, for example, RNs administer medication, establish patient care priorities, intervene in emergencies, and complete patient assessments. In nursing care facilities, RNs monitor patients, advise patients and their families, administer medication and treatments, implement infection-control policies, and coordinate care plans. Meanwhile, in outpatient care centers, RNs collaborate with doctors and the rest of the healthcare team, collect patient healthcare data, monitor patients, and administer medication.

Work-Life Balance and Mental Health in Nursing

Nursing is an emotionally and physically demanding profession, and maintaining a work-life balance is essential for long-term job satisfaction and mental health. The unpredictable and often high-pressure nature of the job can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and stress if not properly managed.

Many healthcare institutions have begun addressing these challenges by implementing programs aimed at supporting nurses' mental well-being. Strategies such as flexible scheduling, mental health counseling services, and wellness initiatives are increasingly being introduced. Work-life balance workshops, yoga sessions, and meditation programs are also gaining traction as they help nurses develop coping mechanisms for stress management.

Nurses who prioritize self-care—like setting boundaries between work and home life, regularly engaging in physical activities, and seeking professional help when needed—report higher job satisfaction and improved patient care outcomes. Additionally, developing time management skills and building a supportive professional network can significantly bolster resilience in this high-stakes career.

Recognizing the importance of mental health is critical for retaining skilled and motivated nursing professionals. For those looking to advance their careers while maintaining balance, exploring the top 10 RN to BSN online programs can provide flexible and supportive pathways.

What options are available for LPNs to transition into registered nursing?

LPNs looking to advance their careers and become registered nurses have several options available. One of the most popular pathways is to enroll in an LPN-to-RN bridge program, which can be completed in as little as one year, depending on the institution. These programs are designed to build on the existing knowledge and skills of LPNs, providing them with the necessary education and training to become registered nurses. For those interested in pursuing this option online, a 2 semester LPN to RN program online can be a convenient and flexible choice. This allows LPNs to balance their work and personal commitments while advancing their education and career prospects. By transitioning into registered nursing, LPNs can take on more complex patient care responsibilities, expand their job opportunities, and increase their earning potential.

What financial aid opportunities can support your nursing education?

There are numerous funding options designed to help aspiring RNs manage the cost of their education. Federal aid, including grants and low-interest loans, can ease financial pressure while you pursue an Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In addition, many colleges and professional organizations offer targeted scholarships for nursing students, often based on academic merit or financial need. Some employers further support nursing education through tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness programs for healthcare professionals. For those interested in expanding their specialization, for example in fields such as being a nutrition nurse, additional specialized grants and financial incentives may be available. It is advisable to research both federal and private funding sources early in your application process to identify opportunities that best suit your career goals.

Salary Outlook for Registered Nurses

Salaries for RNs vary, depending on which state and industry they work in. However, the median annual salary for RNs was $81,220, or $39.05 per hour, in 2022.

In May 2021, the top two highest-paying industries for RNs and their median annual salary were:

• Government: $85,970
• Hospitals: $78,070

How can I become a certified functional medicine practitioner?

For nursing professionals seeking to diversify their expertise, specializing in functional medicine offers a pathway to integrate conventional care with holistic approaches that address the root causes of chronic conditions. This targeted certification prepares RNs to deliver integrative care, blending evidence-based conventional practices with personalized wellness strategies. Nurses pursuing this specialization should focus on obtaining advanced training, engaging in clinical experiences within integrative settings, and completing the necessary accreditation processes—such as the certified functional medicine practitioner program—to access roles in integrative clinics, wellness centers, and community health initiatives.

How can you choose the right nursing program for your career goals?

When evaluating nursing programs, consider the program's accreditation status, curriculum rigor, clinical placement opportunities, and faculty expertise. Assess student support services, including career counseling, mentoring, and access to simulation labs. Evaluate cost-effectiveness by comparing tuition rates, financial aid options, and long-term return on investment. Additionally, explore program flexibility and the availability of bridge or accelerated options if you plan to advance your career. For programs with a focus on nurse practitioner education, reviewing the most affordable NP programs online may help pinpoint cost-effective pathways without compromising quality.

How can an affordable online DNP program transform your career?

An affordable online DNP program equips experienced nurses with advanced leadership skills and strategic expertise needed to drive evidence‑based practices and system innovations. This educational path emphasizes translating research into improved patient outcomes while fostering competencies in clinical decision‑making, quality improvement, and interprofessional collaboration. It offers the flexibility to balance professional and academic responsibilities without compromising career growth. For professionals aiming to enhance their influence in healthcare management and policy, enrolling in a cheap DNP program online presents a cost‑effective route toward attaining these transformative skills.

How can I assess the accreditation and quality of nursing programs?

When evaluating nursing programs, verify that the institution is accredited by recognized bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Examine the curriculum’s alignment with state licensure requirements, the quality of clinical placements, and faculty expertise. Reviewing graduate success rates and available student support services also provides valuable insights. Additionally, consider cost-effective options like the cheapest online licensed practical nurse program to balance quality with affordability while ensuring long-term career advancement.

What are the emerging trends in nursing?

As healthcare continues to evolve, registered nurses must keep pace with emerging trends that impact patient care and workplace practices. Here are some key trends shaping the future of nursing:

• Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring: With advancements in telehealth technology, RNs are increasingly involved in remote patient monitoring, providing consultations, and delivering care to patients outside traditional hospital settings. This trend requires nurses to adapt to telehealth tools and develop strong communication skills for virtual interactions.
• Focus on Preventive and Holistic Care: There's a growing emphasis on preventive care and addressing social determinants of health. RNs play a vital role in educating patients on wellness practices, disease prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices, which can improve long-term outcomes and reduce hospital admissions.
• Technological Integration in Patient Care: From electronic health records (EHR) to wearable health devices, technology is deeply integrated into nursing. RNs need to be proficient in using these tools to track patient progress, document care, and monitor vital signs in real-time.
• Mental Health Awareness and Support: With an increasing awareness of mental health, nurses are now more involved in mental health care, providing support and early intervention for patients. This trend highlights the need for mental health training and empathetic communication.
• Cultural Competency and Diversity: As healthcare becomes more inclusive, RNs are trained to work effectively with diverse populations, respecting cultural differences and adapting care to meet varied needs. This trend underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity in patient interactions.

Staying updated on these trends allows RNs to provide high-quality, relevant care and positions them to adapt to a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

Pathways for Non-Nurses to Transition into Registered Nursing

If you’re starting your journey in healthcare but don’t have a background in nursing, there are tailored pathways to help you become a Registered Nurse (RN). These options allow you to leverage your existing qualifications or explore accelerated programs designed for career changers.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Programs

Accelerated BSN programs are an excellent option for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. These intensive programs condense the traditional nursing curriculum into a shorter timeframe, typically 12 to 18 months. They focus on providing the foundational nursing knowledge and clinical skills required to sit for the NCLEX-RN. The fast pace and targeted curriculum make ABSNs a popular choice for career changers eager to transition quickly into nursing.

Direct Entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

For those with a bachelor's degree who wish to advance directly into specialized nursing roles, direct entry MSN programs are ideal. These programs combine RN training with advanced coursework, preparing students for leadership positions in nursing or advanced practice roles, such as Nurse Practitioner.

Online Nursing Degree Options for Non-Nurses

If you require flexibility due to work or personal commitments, consider online nursing programs designed for non-nurses. These programs often blend virtual coursework with in-person clinical training, offering the convenience of remote study without compromising hands-on experience. Explore our guide to online BSN programs for non nurses to find programs that match your goals and schedule.

What is the fastest RN certification program for aspiring nurses?

For those eager to become a registered nurse as quickly as possible, several fast-track certification programs provide a quicker route to licensure. These programs are ideal for individuals who already have some college education or experience in healthcare and want to expedite their nursing career.

One of the fastest ways to become an RN is to explore "What is the fastest RN certification program?" These fast-track programs typically take 12 to 18 months to complete and are designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. By leveraging prior academic credits, students can accelerate their nursing education, gain the necessary skills, and sit for the NCLEX-RN exam sooner.

Additionally, licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) looking to upgrade their credentials can enroll in LPN-to-RN bridge programs. These programs are designed for experienced professionals and can typically be completed in as little as one year, depending on the institution.

For those without prior healthcare experience, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) offers a relatively fast path, typically requiring two years to complete, and is available through many community colleges and online institutions.

By choosing a fast-track option like these, aspiring nurses can accelerate their careers while meeting all educational and licensing requirements.

How can registered nurses advance their careers further?

Registered nurses seeking career progression can focus on targeted continuing education, leadership development, and specialized certifications to transition into advanced roles. Pursuing higher degrees, such as through ADN to MSN NP bridge programs, can open doors to nurse practitioner or management positions, broadening clinical expertise and authority. Emphasizing mentorship, professional networking, and evidence-based practice also enhances one’s ability to lead interdisciplinary teams and participate in policy-making or research initiatives, providing a clear roadmap for long-term professional advancement.

Is becoming a registered nurse for you?

Nursing is one of the noblest professions. In your journey to master how to become a registered nurse, you will learn you need to have the stomach, the heart, and the brains for it. A desire to work in the healthcare industry because of the job stability it offers and projected growth in employment is not enough. You also need to have a thirst for medical knowledge, the ability to learn a number of life-saving skills, as well as a range of social and interpersonal skills. You must also have some technological skills because you will be operating medical equipment and dealing with electronic data. Although when it comes to documentation and transcribing various medical procedures, tests, examinations, and treatments into standardized codes, you can leave that task to those who have completed a medical coding certification online.

Being an RN would be worth all the hard work you put into your education and training. Working with the sick and people who need medical care and attention may not be all sunshine and roses, but it is rewarding. The pay is also not bad. And, as a bonus, you have a lot of opportunities to advance in your career. However, if you want to pursue a health-related career that is not as demanding as the RN path, consider the medical assistant bachelor degree.

Key Insights

• High Demand for RNs: The employment of registered nurses (RNs) is projected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, with about 203,200 job openings expected annually.
• Educational Pathways: To become an RN, you need to complete either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
• Licensing Requirements: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain a state license to practice as an RN.
• Work Environment Diversity: RNs can work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, and even non-traditional environments like cruise ships and military bases.
• Specialization Options: RNs have numerous specialization options, such as oncology, pediatrics, critical care, and informatics, allowing for tailored career paths.
• Skills Needed: Essential skills for RNs include communication, critical thinking, empathy, technological proficiency, teamwork, and active listening.
• High Earning Potential: The median annual salary for RNs was $81,220 in 2022, with higher earnings potential in government and hospital settings.
• Job Security: Nursing offers job stability, as the demand for healthcare services remains constant regardless of economic conditions.
• Collaborative Work Environment: RNs work as part of a healthcare team, interacting with doctors, technicians, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.

FAQ

1. What are the educational requirements to become a registered nurse?

To become a registered nurse, you must complete either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution. Some states also accept a diploma from an accredited nursing program.

2. How do I get licensed to practice as an RN?

You must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and meet any additional state-specific requirements, which may include a criminal background check and certifications in CPR or advanced cardiac life support.

3. What is the job outlook for registered nurses?

The employment outlook for registered nurses is positive, with a projected growth rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031. Approximately 203,200 job openings are expected annually due to the need to replace retiring nurses and meet the growing demand for healthcare services.

4. What are some common work environments for registered nurses?

Registered nurses can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, universities, government facilities, private practices, correctional facilities, military bases, cruise ships, and home healthcare services.

5. What skills are essential for registered nurses?

Key skills for registered nurses include communication, critical thinking, empathy, technological proficiency, teamwork, social perceptiveness, service orientation, and active listening.

6. What is the difference between an RN and an LPN?

Registered nurses (RNs) have higher qualifications and a broader scope of practice compared to licensed practical nurses (LPNs). LPNs perform basic medical tasks and work under the supervision of RNs and doctors, while RNs can take on more complex patient care responsibilities.

7. Can I specialize as an RN? If so, how?

Yes, RNs can specialize in various fields such as oncology, pediatrics, critical care, neonatal care, and more. Specialization often requires additional education, certification, and training in the chosen area of focus.

8. What is the typical salary for a registered nurse?

As of 2022, the median annual salary for registered nurses was $81,220. Salaries can vary based on the state, industry, and level of experience, with higher earnings potential in government and hospital settings.

9. What are the fastest and most straightforward ways to become an RN?

The fastest way to become an RN is by completing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), which takes about two years. The most straightforward way, especially in states that require a BSN for licensure, is to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which takes about four years. Accelerated BSN programs are available for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree and can be completed in 12 to 18 months.

10. What are the benefits of becoming a registered nurse?

Benefits of becoming an RN include a rewarding and fulfilling career, diverse work opportunities, high demand for nursing services, high earning potential, job stability, and the opportunity to work in a collaborative team environment.

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