Nursing is a popular career choice right now; it has been for many years. There are multiple reasons for this right now such as what has been a steadily growing demand, job security, great pay, and fulfilling work. While those are just a few reasons to support at least looking into becoming a nurse, the final decision and the primary motivations should be made as a personal choice, for the path to ultimately becoming a nurse is a challenge.
Hours of dedication, very challenging coursework, competitive programs, and longtime commitments make this a path that should be thought through thoroughly before beginning. For those persons who are seriously considering such a career path, here are some of the quickest ways by which to earn a degree in nursing.
Basic Information About Becoming a Nurse
There are multiple paths which can be taken to become a nurse, each program varies in ways like program length, coursework, focus and placement opportunities. Here are some summaries of a collection of various programs.
LVN or LPN Programs
Licensed vocational nursing (LVN) or Licensed practical nursing (LPN) is by far the fastest way to become a nurse, however this path will only earn an entry-level position that, while it does provide access to patient care, a collection of clinical responsibilities, as well as a variety of in-house office work, does not provide access to some of the more specialized and technical positions. While there is plenty of work to be found as an LVN, most of what is attended to in a medical position are just monitoring and attending to the basics of patient care needs like basic vital sign tests (blood pressure, heart rate etc.), attending to minor wounds, checking and changing bandages, or caring for basic physical needs of patients in a mix of medical treatments.
Both the LVN and LPN need to be under the supervision of nurses with a higher position and degree, those with more advanced education like an RN. It is important to note that just because the initial path chosen was to become an LVN/LPN, the individual may go on to accrue a higher degree.
One of the most important, and usually most persuasive motivations as to why people choose this path has to do with money. A shorter program means less initial cost and quicker job placements. Typical program lengths? About one year to 18 months.
An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
More of the midrange path to eventually becoming a formal RN, those who pursue the ADN path receive much more detailed and advanced training in comparison to the LPN/LVN. ADN programs do a deeper dive into foundational fields of study, care principles, while eventually preparing students for service by seeing to it that they are also offered hands-on experience in controlled clinical settings. This is due to the significantly increased program time that typically runs about 2-3 years. The intensity of the programs, the breadth of subject matter, and the more in depth training means that, after graduation, the graduate will have far more options for placement.
Some of the other benefits of choosing the ADN path is that it is still more affordable than a traditional RN degree — although the range of program cost is very wide— but the shorter program means that it is still faster than going for the RN. Additionally, due to the high demand for nurses of various levels, there is a strong likelihood of getting a job. The experience found in those positions can be a great way to “test the waters” before deciding if further education is wanted.
Accelerated BSN programs
Just like the name implies, this is still a Bachelor of Nursing degree, but one that is significantly condensed so as to power through what would be the typical timeline for earning a BSN. This is a pre-licensure program and is a way for people with previous bachelor’s degrees in a non-nursing related field to essentially “tack on” a second type of degree, a great reason to go back to school and make the pivot into the nursing profession.
For those people with previous educational experience, this is a great choice. One of the only major downsides to this path is that the intensity and demands of the program demand that the participant not work a job while going to school, so money previously saved or a student loan is a must.
Photo Credit
Image by fernando zhiminaicela from Pixabay
Guest Author Bio
Sarah Daren
With a Bachelor’s in Health Science along with an MBA, Sarah Daren has a wealth of knowledge within both the health and business sectors. Her expertise in scaling and identifying ways tech can improve the lives of others has led Sarah to be a consultant for a number of startup businesses, most prominently in the wellness industry, wearable technology and health education. She implements her health knowledge into every aspect of her life with a focus on making America a healthier and safer place for future generations to come.
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