Online Registered Nursing classes
In today's digital age, education has become more accessible than ever. With the advancement of technology, students can now pursue their dreams of becoming a registered nurse by taking classes online. Online registered nursing classes offer a flexible and convenient way to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills needed for this rewarding profession.
Step 3: Enroll in the Program and Complete the Education Requirements
Once you have been admitted to an online RN program, you can begin enrolling in courses and completing the general education requirements. General education courses are typically required for all students, regardless of their major, and cover a wide range of subjects such as English composition, mathematics, social sciences, and humanities. These courses provide a well-rounded education and help students develop critical thinking and communication skills.
In addition to general education courses, online RN programs also include nursing-specific courses that cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, and clinical practice. These courses provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to become a registered nurse.
Step 4: Complete Clinical Practicum Requirements
One of the unique challenges of obtaining an online RN degree is completing the clinical practicum requirements. Clinical practicum is an essential component of nursing education, as it allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world healthcare setting under the supervision of a registered nurse or nurse educator. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the clinical competence and confidence needed to practice as a registered nurse.
Online programs typically have partnerships with local healthcare facilities, where students can complete their clinical practicum requirements. Students are required to complete a certain number of hours in a clinical setting, which may vary depending on the program. The specific requirements for the clinical practicum will be outlined by the program and may include specific rotations in different healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Step 5: Pass the NCLEX-RN Examination
After completing all the required coursework and clinical practicum hours, the next step is to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The NCLEX-RN is a standardized examination that is used to determine whether a candidate is prepared for entry-level nursing practice. It is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and is required for licensure as a registered nurse in the United States.
The NCLEX-RN is a computerized adaptive test that assesses the candidate's knowledge and skills in areas such as safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity. The examination consists of multiple-choice questions, as well as alternate format questions such as select all that apply, fill in the blank, and ordered response. Candidates have a maximum of six hours to complete the examination.
Step 6: Obtain State Licensure
Once you have passed the NCLEX-RN examination, the final step is to obtain state licensure. Licensure requirements may vary from state to state, so it is important to research the specific requirements for the state in which you plan to practice. Typically, licensure requirements include submitting an application, paying a fee, providing proof of education and passing the NCLEX-RN examination. Some states may also require candidates to undergo a criminal background check and/or submit fingerprints.
Once you have obtained state licensure, you can begin practicing as a registered nurse. Registered nurses have a wide range of career opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare. They can also choose to specialize in a specific area of nursing, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or critical care.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining an online Registered Nursing degree can be a convenient and flexible option for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in nursing. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully complete an online RN program and become a registered nurse. It is important to carefully research and choose an accredited online program, meet the admission requirements, complete the required coursework and clinical practicum hours, pass the NCLEX-RN examination, and obtain state licensure. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goal of becoming a registered nurse and make a positive impact in the field of healthcare.
Dreambound is your go-to for state-specific guides if you're starting in this field. And if you're curious about the process across different states, we've written several others as well.
Weighing the possibilities of a career shift ? Dreambound has written many extensive guides to guide you in making informed decisions. Check out some of these resources below:
Blessed Joy Amarga is part of the Growth and Sales teams at Dreambound. She helps bring in new leads, increasing the number of people at the top of the sales funnel, and supporting the team in creating graphics to boost social media engagement. Blessed is also a Licensed Architect. Outside work, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places for her vlog.
