Working in healthcare means working in one of the most important industries in the world. Quality of life skyrockets when healthcare improves, and not just in terms of research and treatments. Many people make the entire healthcare sector run, and it wouldn’t be what it is without every single one of them.
However, there is no role quite like nursing when it comes to the most critical roles. There are several different levels of nurses and combined they make up the backbone of the healthcare industry. They put the care in healthcare, and if you’re interested in getting started as one, you’ll want to use this guide:
Nursing Roles to Get Started In
You cannot work your way up in healthcare like in other careers. There is no amount of hard work or learning on the job that will qualify you for a promotion from an RN to an APRN. Instead, you will need to earn a degree and then pass the state exam before starting job hunting.
The good news is that nursing roles are growing at almost twice the national average, meaning there’s more opportunity to get started than ever:
Registered Nurse
If you are serious about becoming a nurse, always direct your efforts to become a registered nurse. RNs are what people think of when they hear the word “nurse”, and there are many ways to get the credentials that you need. You could earn an associate’s degree, but you’ll need to return and earn the missing BSN credits if you want to further your career. You can also earn your nursing degree part-time to work around your education.
If you want to earn your qualifications as soon as possible, see if you can apply for an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing degree. This option is perfect for those with a STEM-related degree since you can use your existing credits towards your BSN and fast-track it. With an accelerated degree, you can graduate in just 15 months instead of the usual four years.
Licensed Nurse Practitioner
One step down is the Licensed Nurse Practitioner or LNP. These nurses take on more responsibilities and may give patients their medication or perform holistic care that keeps them comfortable. To qualify as an LNP, you will need to earn a diploma which typically takes six months, and then take the exam.
Certified Nurse Assistant
A CNA works in a holistic capacity. They are the ones who keep patients and their rooms clean and who carry out various tasks for RNs. They usually work in hospices and hospitals. CNAs need to have a certificate to qualify.
Nursing Roles to Work Towards
While there are several nursing roles you can get started in if you want to advance, keep in mind that you will eventually need to become a BSN-RN. This is because advancing further means earning your MSN and then working towards an APRN qualification. If you want, you can further your skillset with a doctorate.
Working your way up to become an APRN takes a lot of time and study, so don’t try to rush yourself through unless you have the health, support, and space to do it.