What should I study to become a registered nurse?

Then you should devote your time to more practical learning, covering topics such as:

• Pediatrics

• Chronic illness

• Mental health issues

The preferred standard for nurses is a four-year program, but some schools offer an accelerated option that can be completed in as little as 2.5 years. Accelerated programs focus on human development and behavioral sciences, which are used extensively in the nursing profession.

An associate degree in nursing generally requires two years to complete, although some programs offer an accelerated option that can be finished in less time. Students focus on the more technical aspects of nursing and often take classes in clinical settings.

After graduation, many associate degree holders choose to work as RNs for a few years before going back to school to earn a bachelor's degree.

After you've finished your nursing degree, the next step is to get state licensure to become a licensed registered nurse.

Before being permitted to work in a professional capacity at a healthcare facility, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination Registered Nurse (NCLEX) exam, which consists of four main subjects:

• Providing a safe and effective care environment

• Health promotion and maintenance

• Psychosocial integrity

• Physiological integrity

There is no guarantee that you will become a competent nurse simply by deciding to take a nursing course. Your career prospects will be determined by how hard you work and how much effort you put in.