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We often refer to registered nurses (RNs) as the “backbone” of the healthcare industry for their compassionate, patient-centered care. In recent years, their importance has only continued to grow with the rising demand for competent and skilled nurses.
Registered nurses today are often the primary healthcare providers for many patients, filling the gaps left by a shortage of healthcare workers. They diagnose, treat, advocate, educate and coordinate care in virtually every healthcare setting. Registered nurses remain trusted practitioners and a key component of any healthcare team.
This article answers some of the most frequent questions about becoming a registered nurse. Learn more about what a registered nurse does, how to embark on a career as a registered nurse and the professional opportunities for those who become an RN.
A registered nurse is a licensed healthcare practitioner who provides hands-on care to patients. Some of the duties they carry out include evaluating patients, monitoring their vitals, updating medical records, performing diagnostic tests, administering medication, implementing treatment and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
After several years in the workforce, many RNs pursue specialty certifications to increase their earning potential and career opportunities. Others opt to pursue graduate studies, which open the doors for advanced nursing practice, leadership positions or teaching.
To become a registered nurse, you must earn a diploma, an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution. Once you graduate, you are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Passing this exam is required to practice as a licensed registered nurse.
Obtaining a degree from an accredited nursing program puts you at a distinct advantage. Programs that are accredited by ACEN, CCNE, or CNEA are required to meet educational standards and offer evidence-based education to students. Accreditation is required by many programs for admission to other undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. Other schools will often only accept transfer credits from accredited programs as well.
Though candidates can obtain a license with a diploma or ADN degree, many employers prefer hiring RNs who hold a bachelor’s degree. Graduating from a four-year degree program increases a nurse’s salary potential and allows them to pursue graduate education and leadership roles.
To graduate from an accredited nursing program, students must complete nursing clinical hours. Though the number of contact and credit hours varies depending on the degree and state, it is a critical component of any curriculum and a rewarding learning experience.
Students develop technical and soft skills during hands on clinical experiences. Under faculty supervision, they develop clinical judgment and practice essential nursing tasks like taking vitals, feeding and bathing patients, administering medications, changing bandages and inserting IVs.
Students also learn how to collaborate with other healthcare professionals on the care team and establish a trusting relationship with their patients. Clinical hours are also an excellent opportunity to explore different healthcare settings and specializations.
All states use the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to issue licenses to registered nurses. The exam covers physiology, psychosocial integrity, health promotion and maintenance, and effective and safe care environments. The test was recently rebranded as the Next Generation NCLEX. It emphasizes clinical judgment skills — in other words, one’s ability to evaluate a situation, pinpoint the main issue and apply the best evidence-based solution. In addition to the NCLEX exam, states may have other requirements like passing a criminal background check.
Though passing the certification exam may sound intimidating, there are ways to prepare.
Some helpful tips include:
Registered nurses find successful careers in virtually every healthcare setting imaginable. Hospitals, clinics, private practice, nursing care facilities, correctional facilities, home healthcare services, telehealth companies, emergency rooms and schools employ registered nurses. As a result, nursing is a versatile and flexible career path.
While occupying a meaningful profession as a trusted service provider, nursing can also be emotionally taxing and physically demanding. Shifts are long, and nurses are constantly on their feet and on the move.
They often encounter stressful or emotional situations and must face them with professionalism and grace. Patients can be challenging or vulnerable and require compassion and understanding. Even so, nurses have the opportunity to make a positive impact every day.
Some of the essential skills registered nurses must develop include:
Clinical judgment
Decision-making
Ability to learn quickly
Advocacy
Communication
Empathy and patience
Organization
Problem-solving
Resilience
Teamwork and flexibility
The demand for registered nurses is growing due to a shortage of healthcare professionals, an increase in the aging population and the complexity of today’s healthcare industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment opportunities to rise by 6% over the next decade — faster than the average for all occupations. In 2022, the median annual pay for RNs was $81,220, and they can look forward to attaining positions in almost any healthcare setting.
In addition to steady work and earning potential, a career in nursing offers mental and emotional rewards. Every patient is unique, which makes every day different from the last. Nurses establish close ties with patients and their families because of the individualized attention they provide.
RNs also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to improve the quality of care and advocate for the people under their direct supervision. As practitioners, they have an immediate, positive impact on the lives of their patients.
For 100 years, FranU has educated highly skilled nurses to provide ethical, patient-centered care. Our curriculum is innovative, hands-on and based on a tradition of Franciscan values. State-of-the-art facilities and partnerships with local organizations give students the opportunity to gain real-world experience while giving back to the local community.
The School of Nursing offers the following programs:
Our two undergraduate tracks are affordable, transfer-friendly and flexible. We have an accelerated option, as well as guaranteed admission for prospective traditional entry students who meet certain requirements. Students benefit from experienced faculty, robust clinical hours and lab experiences, and our state-of-the-art Simulated Environment Teaching Hospital (SETH).
FranU designed its MSN-FNP graduate nursing degree programs with the working professional in mind, using a combination of online or blended courses to allow maximum flexibility. The DNP-NA program prepares nurses to be nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) in three years. The first two semesters are online and then students come to campus for the rest of their courses. With a focus on rural and medically underserved communities, graduate students gain advanced skills at our many local partner sites. Scholarships, grants, and agreements with some of our clinical partners can be used to offset the cost of tuition
Registered nurses are trusted healthcare professionals who play a vital role in patient care. If you are ready for a meaningful career in nursing with steady job prospects and earning potential, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University (FranU) can help you get there. Discover everything we have to offer!
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