Let’s talk real nursing school, not what you may have heard…..

This post will begin a 4 part series on nursing school.

Nursing School

People have many different expectations when it comes to nursing school. Some think it will require minimal effort, minimal studying, and apply that “do the least amount of work required to get it done” ethic.

Some think they will have this degree and then license after a short time period, (some schools  are only 16 months!!), and then go out and make lots of money. I am here to tell you that if you find yourself nodding along to what I just said, please don’t. Do not pass GO, do not collect $200, and DEFINITELY do not consider nursing as a profession.

Remember that nursing school is an INTRODUCTION to your new profession. The learning doesn’t stop there, and it definitely is not a “minimal effort” profession.

Different Nursing Degrees

Depending on which degree you are obtaining, the schooling can be anywhere from 16 months to 4 years. It is important to note here that you are going to school to obtain a nursing DEGREE, not a license.

You must take a state test after nursing school to obtain that license. Without that, you can’t practice nursing. Your choices for degrees are ADN (associates in nursing), BSN (bachelor’s in nursing), and other advanced degrees.

Both ADN and BSN nurses will take the same state test (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse (RN).

What to look forward to in Nursing School

In nursing school, you can expect to cover all aspects of the science involved in how the body works (or doesn’t). You can also expect to learn anatomy, psychology, medication administration, as well as some general education.

Many students find themselves learning about types of nursing that they feel they will never use.

Trust me when I tell you that I hear, “I’m not going to be a psych nurse so learning psych is a waste of my time” constantly from my students.  Last time I checked, even the mentally ill can have an appendix or gallbladder go south.

You never know who will end up needing your care. IT’S ALL RELEVANT!!!

Check back here for my twice weekly blogs on everything nursing!!

Nikki