One of the most rewarding career choices in the world today is that of becoming a nurse. The profession can provide a great deal of personal satisfaction as well as financial rewards. However, nursing programs are very competitive when trying to gain admission. This is why it is important to understand the prerequisites for nursing.
Each school that offers this type of program has its own requirements that must be met before you will even be considered for admission into the program. However, there are certain universal requirements as well as similarities in the individual requirements.
A high school diploma with proof that a person has taken an emphasis in life sciences and mathematics is one of these requirements. Chemistry can also prove helpful. A GED may be acceptable as long as the applicant can prove sufficient knowledge of requisite course material.
One must attend classes in an accredited university or college. Many of these classes will be specialized to teach the necessary skills such as anatomy and physiology for the purpose of selecting injection sites and starting IVs. Courses in pharmacology are also required so that nurses can administer medications and be certain that required doses are in the normal range for patients of the size and experiencing the condition encountered.
Schools offer degrees that range from the two-year Associate of Science to a PhD in nursing. Despite this range of degrees, those wishing to practice as nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX). There are two different test administered. One is for those wishing to attain the rank of LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) and the other is for those with the education level to become RNs (Registered Nurses).
The field also includes several specialties that require additional education beyond that normally required for licensure. A nurse practitioner is trained in how certain medications work and licensed to prescribe them. A nurse anesthetist is trained in how anesthesia affects the body and licensed to administer it in surgical settings.
No matter what area one practices in, LPN, RN, or specialty, the states have enacted continuing education requirements that must be met in order to keep one's license. Special classes and seminars are offered periodically throughout the year that allow nurses to stay current on accepted practices and to learn any new skills that they become allowed to use.
Understanding the prerequisites for nursing is important in order to determine whether this is a career option you wish to explore further. It is also important to those already practicing as they will have to continue their education in order to maintain their licensure.
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