Are you a caring individual? Do you find yourself running to the aid of someone who received an injury, or enjoy caring for babies? Maybe becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or Nurse Practitioner (NP) is the future for you. Whether your ambition is to climb the corporate ladder in the health care field, or to remain in a hospital setting, you will find a variety of health care programs that can help you accomplish your goals. According to the American Association of College of Nursing, the U.S. is forecasting a shortage in the nursing field that is expected to increase as Baby Boomers age and the need for health care grows. Clearly, the job prospects for nursing are positive and nursing schools are eager for new students. This article will discuss the educational and licensing requirements for LPNs, RNs, and NPs in New York.
In New York, a high school graduate over 17 years of age and at least nine months of nursing education can enroll into an LPN nursing program. A person who enrolls into an LPN nursing program on a full-time basis should expect to be licensed in approximately one year. There are also options for 11th or 12th graders, after completion of nursing coursework and general studies.
Becoming a licensed RN typically requires more time, since a person must be at least 18 and have completed a nursing diploma or degree of at least two years. The New York State Coalition for Educational Mobility has developed an LPN to RN Articulation model that establishes a mechanism for the practical nurse to achieve mobility in the nursing industry and in education institutions. The length of time to receive an RN license depends on which educational path the individual takes, however an LPN can usually expect to become an RN typically in 1 1/2 to 2 years.
Individuals may also complete a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN), which involves the completion of a four-year program at an accredited institution. Nurses with an undergraduate degree are certified to work in more environments than a RN. For example, if your aspiration is to be a nurse educator or a public health nurse, a BSN is definitely a requirement.
Once certified as a RN or BSN, you may wish to further your education and receive a Master of Science in Nursing. In New York, this requires the completion of a 2 year program and passing the National Board certifying exam. A nurse with an MSN, also called a Nurse Practitioner, is able to diagnose medical problems, prescribe medications and make referrals. Compared to LPNs, RNs, and those with a BSN, they work more independently and in more specialized departments.
With hospitals across the United States facing a shortage of nursing staff, and statistics showing that over the next 15 years the number of nurses retiring will grow exponentially, the demand for nurses is projected to far outweigh the required supply. If you are seriously considering an education in the health care industry, nursing programs for LPNs, RNs and NPs are waiting for you to enroll!
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