According to the American Nurses Association, nursing is the “protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities.” Nurses combine their medical knowledge with compassion and caring to not only treat their patients’ symptoms but to keep them at ease during the stressful moments in healthcare. Although nursing is the nation’s largest healthcare profession in the United States, there is always a demand for nurses.
Like many areas of medicine, students planning a future in nursing can choose from many educational paths. All nurses must have a high school diploma, and since it is a competitive field, be in good academic standing in English, Algebra, Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Psychology. In college, there are three typical programs of study, Associate Degree Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Master of Science in Nursing.
An ADN is a two-year nursing degree usually offered at community or junior colleges. Students obtaining an ADN can go on to become Licensed Practical Nurses. Today, many nurses who graduate with an ADN choose to continue their education at a 4-year college or university.
A BSN is a four-year nursing degree that covers a variety of healthcare settings. BSN programs often have very competitive admissions due to college’s budget constraints, lack of faculty, and classroom space. The academic standards are set very high for nursing students, and along with keeping good grades, nursing students must obtain medical experience through paid or volunteer work. The majority of nurses obtain BSN degrees.
Nurses who want to advance even farther can decide to obtain a Masters of Science in Nursing. This program of study allows nurses to specialize in specific areas of healthcare. Nurses who obtain a MSN continue their careers as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialist, nurse administrators, and nurse educators.
Since the medical field is always changing, nurses continually take educational courses throughout their career. The courses help keep every nurse up to date with current treatment and medical procedures. Nurses gain the rest of their experience and education through on-the-job training.
Although the path to nursing is difficult and demanding, the rewards of caring and helping others are endless. The dedication of nurses and nursing students keeps the well being of many in safe hands.