Do you want to be a nurse? Nursing has become one of the most in-demandoccupations in the United States. The research of experts shows that thissituation will likely remain true far into the second decade of the newmillennium. In fact, roughly 6% of nursing positions throughout the countryhave not been filled yet. If you are interested incoming a nurse, here are somebasic steps that will help you to reach your goal:

1. Read and learn about the nursing profession

The nursing profession in the United States is huge! In fact, it includesmore than 2.9 million registered nurses (RNs) throughout the country. Whilenurses treat patients, that is one of several types of duties of theirs.

2. Plot your course to earn the title of RN

Every practicing nurse in the US must become an RN. However, various pathsexist, to becoming an RN. These routes include:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)• Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN)•Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

3. Pick a nursing school

Nursing schools can range from small to large. Choose a school based on yourpersonal needs. Do you want a BSN, ADN, or LVN? Do you want to study near, far,or online? How will you pay for your nursing school?

4. Get admitted into “your” school

The majority of (4-year) BSN programs consider the same things, whenadmitting students. These items include your grades, part-time or volunteerhealthcare work experience, a statement of purpose or admissions essay, andyour letters of recommendations.

5. Finish an RN program

Regardless of which RN program you enter, you will be required to mastercertain skills. These skills include assessing, evaluating, diagnosing,implementing, and planning. Each of these skills is vital in preparing you fora nursing career.

6. Choose a specialty

Selecting a particular specialty can be tough, but is one of the necessarysteps of becoming an RN. This step may seem overwhelming at first. However, youwill spend at least one semester working in each specialty, making your choiceeasier.

7. Take (and pass) the NCLEX

All RNs must pass the NCLEX: National Council Licensure Examination. This isa multiple-choice type of test. It is important to find an outstanding studyguide, to help prepare for the NCLEX.

8. Evaluate options for your first job

You should ask about various issues, before selecting a job. These include:orientation/preceptor programs, support, and turnover rates of first-yearnurses. Before joining a particular specialty unit, observe it, and considerworking part-time in it.

9. Get hired

Be sure to make your choice carefully. Do not let employers’ freebies dazzleyou. You could also consider “share time” first. That allows you to observe theactual work that you would perform.

How can you become an RN? Imagine yourself performing the day-to-day dutiesof an RN, while wearing comfortable, hygienic, cheap urbane scrubs. Then followthe aforementioned steps to become an RN. Soon, you will turn your dreams ofbeing an RN, into a reality!