How Do I Become a Registered Nurse

A young registered nurse is assisting a patient

For many people, the dream of becoming a nurse starts young. For others, the urge to join the nursing profession doesn’t starts until maturity. Whenever the desire to become an RN hits you, it is important to understand the qualities that make a good nurse, and the process you must undergo before launching your career.

What Are the Steps Involved in Becoming a Registered Nurse?

The process of becoming an RN takes some commitment. To start your career as a nurse, you must first:

  • 1. Earn a degree: To become qualified for a registered nursing position, you must first earn a nursing degree. Individuals who graduate from an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program are qualified to apply for state licensing.
  • 2. Pass the NCLEX exam: Following successful completion of an ASN or BSN program, and before applying for a nursing license, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The NCLEX is designed to test your knowledge of proper care techniques and assess your level of preparedness for a nursing career.
  • 3. Apply for a license: Upon successful completion of your degree and the NCLEX, you must apply for a state nursing license. To apply, you must submit the required documentation to the State Board of Nursing and pass a background check.
  • 4. Pursue employment: Once you have earned your degree, passed the NCLEX and obtained a nursing license, you are ready to begin applying for nursing positions.

While it may seem daunting at first, the process of becoming an RN is rewarding and can be accomplished in as little as two years. The commitment to your education and training is far outweighed by the end goal—helping to care for patients and families facing challenging health issues.

What Does it Take to Be Successful as an RN?

There are many personality traits that make a person well suited to a career in nursing. Often, the most successful nurses are:

  • Caring
  • Diligent
  • Flexible
  • Compassionate

While these traits are important, perhaps the most valuable trait of a successful nurse is passion; passion for helping others, for learning and for continually honing your craft.

Begin Your Path Toward a Career as a Registered Nurse

The first step towards a career as an RN is to apply for nursing school. At Cambridge College of Healthcare & Nursing, we offer ASN and BSN programs from campuses in Delray Beach and Altamonte Springs. To learn more about the process of become an RN, or to discuss your nursing school options, contact an advisor.

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