A career in nursing can be deeply satisfying. Nurses provide direct patient care. If you are planning on a career in this field, here are five things to do before starting your nurse practitioner program.
Speak With Others
Now is a good time to speak with others in the process of becoming a nurse or those who have already completed this program. They can fill you in about specifics such as how to cope with stress and what you’re going to need as the program goes along. They can also help you remember why you’re planning to enter the profession. A nurse can remind that you that it might seem daunting but it’s going to pay off once you’re on the job and fully prepared to dive right in.
Required Classes
This is also the time to find out what classes are required. Nursing follows a set pattern of classes that must be taken in a certain order. Each applicant should know what is required to become a nurse practitioner. The school should provide a clear path to the nursing degree from start to finish. Ask questions if it is not clear. Many required classes cannot be taken until the completion of other preliminary classes. Find out if you qualify for an exemption based on prior work. If you don’t have to take such classes such as basic bio or chem, that can save you time and money. This is a good way to get to your degree faster.
Financial Issues
Many programs require students to attend at least part-time. Once the nurse has completed the basics, they must attend on the job training. This makes it very hard for a nursing student to hold down a job as they earn their nursing degree. Find out the full costs of the degree in advance. Get all funding in place before the first day of class. A program will not admit students who have not paid their tuition bills.
A Support System
Becoming a nurse is tough. Nurses must master a body of extensive material that requires a lot of concentration. They need to pass state licensing exams to enter the profession. They need to demonstrate devotion to patient care, the ability to perform nursing procedures such as inserting an intravenous line and a willingness to follow directions. All student nurses should have someone who is there to listen to their concerns and offer the chance to vent frustrations.
Books and Other Items
Nurses need other things for classes including books. All nurses should be prepared to set aside a sum of money for books and medical equipment. Books can often be purchased used. Find out exactly what is required for each class. Many nursing programs provide access to places that allow students to purchase such items at a discount.
All nursing students should be aware of what they’ll need before they begin nursing school. A well-prepared student will find it a lot easier to complete a nursing degree.