Educational And Licensure Requirements
In order to become a registered nurse, you could choose to attend one of many RN programs in Ohio. There are three educational paths a prospective RN could choose. These include earning a nursing diploma, an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The coursework of these programs includes classes in nursing, anatomy, microbiology, biochemistry, physiology, nutrition, and psychology. Supervised experience in clinical settings is also an integral part of nursing education. Advanced level programs focus more on skills like effective communication, problem solving, critical thinking, and leadership and management skills. Successful completion of one of these programs will equip you with the required nursing knowledge and skills. Students will then be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. After passing this exam, you will be authorized to practice as a registered nurse.
Online Education
Online education is gaining more popularity, and the quality is just as good as traditional on-campus nursing programs. Many RN schools in Ohio now offer online programs that are CCNE-accredited. The flexible scheduling options for online programs allow you to choose a program that fits within your current schedule. Online programs are well designed and are taught by qualified faculty members. You can expect to have orientation sessions and faculty guidance during the time you are enrolled. These programs are delivered completely over the internet, so you could log on and complete the coursework at a time that is convenient for you. Due to the economic downturn after 2008, many people needed to switch careers in order to find a job. For them, online educational programs were an ideal way to improve their resume or change their career. Online education is also suited for those who are balancing commitments at home and at work.
Work Environment
Nurses often work in challenging environments where they are expected to perform the following tasks:
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Carry out diagnostic tests and analyze results
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Instruct patients on injury management
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Administer medicines and treatments
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Observe patients and document these observations
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Record symptoms and medical histories of patients
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Design plans for patient care
They are also often required to supervise nursing aides, licensed practical nurses, and home care aides. If you do not wish to work with patients or would like to work standard business hours, you could choose a career as a nurse educator, researcher, hospital administrator, healthcare consultant, or public policy advisor. You may also work with pharmaceutical and medical supply companies, or as medical writers and editors. RNs employed in traditional settings such as public and private medical and surgical hospitals, physician's offices, nursing care facilities, clinics, and home health services often have to work night shifts, on weekends, and during holidays. They might also be on call.
Job Outlook
The job outlook is quite bright for registered nurses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of RNs is expected to grow by 26% from 2010 to 2020. Several factors are contributing towards this increased demand: an increasing aging population, a greater proportion of retiring RNs, and more institutions requiring the services of RNs. Employers today prefer a well-rounded educational degree that equips prospective employees with knowledge and skills needed to work in challenging conditions, so you should look into one of the RN programs in Ohio to start your career.