Nurses Assuming More Physicians' Responsibilities Today |
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November 9, 2006
by Gabby Hyman
Healthcare Programs Columnist
Registered nurses with advanced medical training are in high demand today as primary-care facilities grow to meet the demand for American health care. According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, the number of nurse practitioners (NPs) has swelled to 115,000--up from an estimated 30,000 in 1990. If you want to join this dynamic profession, you'll first need to complete your nursing degree.
In 43 states, nurse practitioners can practice with direct or limited doctor supervision and may administer medications, perform examinations, make diagnoses, order and review x-rays. Before taking advanced or graduate nurse training leading to NP certifications, nurses must first pass registered nurse (RN) exams and have floor experience. You can attend any number of full or part-time online nursing degree programs to get started.
Two and Four-Year RN Programs
Every state requires nurses who wish to practice as RNs to complete an accredited college training program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Two traditional pathways to the RN are the associate's degree in nursing (ADN) and bachelor's of science degree in nursing (BSN).
Even if you have begun your nursing career as a licensed practical nurse or nursing aide, you can still train for advanced nursing careers. A beginning program, the Certificate in Nursing Health Care Ed., can prepare you for moving into more advanced work. Many schools offer a practical nurse-to-RN course as well as an RN-to-BSN program. Many online colleges offer master's degrees in nursing to help promote working professionals into management and administrative nursing fields.
Whether you want to assist in nursing or lead the way, an online undergraduate or graduate degree program can open doors for you.
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About the Author
Gabby Hyman has created online strategies and written content for Fortune 500 companies including eToys, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Microsoft Encarta, Avaya, and Nissan UK.
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