How to become a registered nurse in the USA

Nursing is one of the most secure and crucial professions in the United States healthcare system. Nurses support physicians, advocate patients’ interests and often provide all points of care across various settings. As of May 2022, the average annual salary for US registered nurses is $89,010, with increased earnings possible with specialty roles or high-demand locations. Nursing also offers job stability, flexibility, and the chance to a make meaningful daily difference!

Nurses in the US play a diverse range of roles that extend far beyond bedside care, depending on their education and specialization. Nurses may assist with case management, community health services, patient education programs, or advanced procedures in intensive care units. These positions are present various environments, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, nursing homes, government agencies, and private practices.

In addition to providing direct patient care, nurses are increasingly leading healthcare teams, managing electronic health records, developing care plans, and collaborating with other health professionals. With an increased focus on preventive health services such as chronic disease management and mental health services nationwide, registered nurses continue to grow in scope and demand.

Steps for Applying for Nursing Registration in the US

To become a registered nurse in the US, candidates must meet both education and licensure requirements:

Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: This may involve enrolling in either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program; many employers now prefer or require a BSN degree for employment purposes.

Apply for Licensure: Each state has its own Board of Nursing; therefore, to get licensed in that particular state, you’ll need to go through them directly and apply through them.

Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) tests your abilities as a registered nurse and determines if it’s time for licensure. It evaluates your readiness to practice safely and efficiently.

Background and Fingerprint Checks: Many states require criminal background checks as part of their licensure process.

Establish Your License & Renewal Periodically: Once you pass, you’ll obtain your RN license. Nurses are required to complete continuing education courses and renew their licenses every 2 to 3 years.

Internationally educated nurses may need to take additional steps, including credential evaluations and English proficiency tests, to meet the licensure requirements.

What Types of Nurses are Needed

The US nursing field offers many potential career pathways depending on education and specialization:

Registered Nurse (RN) – To provide general medical care and acute and chronic patient management.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – LPNs provide basic nursing care under the direction of registered nurses (RN).

Nurse Practitioner (NP) – Provides advanced clinical care, diagnoses conditions and prescribes medications.

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) – Specialize in oncology, pediatrics or critical care.

Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) – Administers anesthesia and oversees patient recovery.

Nurse Practitioners and Registered Nurses with Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees (RN-BSNs) are currently experiencing high demand, particularly in underserved rural areas and in specialty fields such as geriatrics, mental health, and critical care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates, over 197,200 RN job openings will become available annually by 2033 due to workforce retirements and rising healthcare needs.

Requirements to Become a Registered Nurse in the USA

To qualify as an RN in the US, you will need:

Earn an ADN or BSN degree from an accredited institution.

Pass the NCLEX-RN examination. Satisfy state licensing requirements, including background checks, fingerprinting and proof of citizenship or legal residency.

Staying current with continuing education requirements to maintain your license is crucial.

For nurses involved in hands-on patient care, having nursing malpractice insurance is one way to protect yourself from legal risks that may arise during your career. It offers reassurance and acts as a safety net, helping you focus on providing quality care without added worry.

Pathway to Becoming a Registered Nurse in the USA

Pursuing a career as a Registered Nurse in the United States is achievable and rewarding. With the proper education, licensing, and preparation, you can step into a role that not only offers job stability and a competitive salary but also makes a lasting impact on the lives of others.

Becoming a registered nurse in the US can be an exciting, fulfilling journey that blends compassion with skill development. From learning the scope of nursing to fulfilling all required educational and licensing steps, becoming a registered nurse offers long-term security while providing opportunities to positively impact lives.

Whether you start as an RN or switch from sales to healthcare, there are tremendous opportunities. Use this guide to map your way there, and security will come! As you change from nurse assistant to nurse pursuer, do not forget to protect your professional status with tools like nursing malpractice insurance.