So, you’re thinking about a career in nursing?

Well, that’s awesome!

You are in good company. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nursing workforce is currently made up of 2,955,200 people in the United States.

And don’t worry, there is plenty of room for you to find a steady job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 500,000 new nursing jobs are expected in the next few years.

Let us cover the initial steps on this exciting career path together so you can get a better understanding of what you’re getting into.

We are talking here about your career for possibly the next 10 years, at the very least, and even the rest of your life. That is exciting and nerve-racking at the same time.

Let’s get to it then.

How do you become a Registered Nurse?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you need to do.

  1. Choose a nursing path
  2. Earn a degree
  3. Get licensed

What type of schooling does a nurse need?

The following list details the types of nursing degrees available:

  • Nursing diplomas are offered at community colleges and vocational schools.
  • Associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) can be earned at community colleges.
  • Bachelor’s degrees in nursing (BSN) are available at colleges and universities.
  • Master’s degrees in nursing (MSN) are available at colleges and universities.
  • Doctoral degrees (DNP, ND, PhD, DNSc) are available at colleges and universities.

What are the types of certifications and requirements needed to become a Registered Nurse?

Once you complete your education, you’ll need to take an exam to demonstrate your knowledge and nursing skills. The exams, and the topics covered in them, differ based on the career path. To become a licensed certified nursing assistant (CNA), you’ll need to pass a state competency exam. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). RNs are required to take the NCLEX-RN to earn a license. Nurse practitioners must pass a national certification exam administered by a professional organization, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Upon completing their education, nurse midwives should pass the exam administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).

How long does it take to become a nurse?

Well, it depends on the area of nursing you get into, but the minimum time is 2 years for an associate’s degree, 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, and 3 years for a diploma program. This does not include continuing education.

How much does it cost to become a nurse?

This depends, of course, on the school or university you choose. The median cost per year is $6,679 for In-State Public and $30,454 for Out of State Private Universities. The demand for nursing professionals is so high that it really doesn’t matter if it is a state or a private university; as long as you pass all your requirements, you are pretty much assured of getting hired.

What is the TEAS test?

The Test of Essential Academic Skills is a standardized, multiple-choice exam for students applying to nursing schools in the USA. It is often used to determine the ability of potential students to adjust to a nursing program.

How many questions are on the TEAS test?

The TEAS test is a multiple-choice exam and consists of 170 questions.

What are the Categories on the TEAS Test?

The TEAS can be broken down into 4 content areas:

  • Reading (48)
  • Mathematics (34)
  • Science (54)
  • English and Language Usage (34)

How long does the TEAS typically last?

Individuals are given 209 minutes, or 3 hours 29 minutes, to complete this evaluation.

What is the passing grade needed for TEAS?

The TEAS is not a pass or fail test. Students must earn a Proficient or higher rating in the ATI Academic Preparedness Category to be eligible for admission.

How many times can you take the test?

Most schools place a strict limit on the number of times a student can take the TEAS. Some only allow two total testing attempts or restrict you to two attempts per 12-month span, starting from when you first sit for the exam. Other schools limit the number of retakes during an admissions cycle, a roughly 3- to 4-month period that spans the end of one semester and the beginning of another. If you test within this time frame, you might have one or two shots at earning acceptable scores. At all other points in the academic year, you’re free to take the exam as many times as you want.