Neonatal Nursing Jobs

There are two types of nurses, a nurse who holds a LPN and a nurse who holds an RN. A LPN is a licensed practical nurse, and an RN is a registered nurse. Both require passing an accredited program and taking a national test, known as the NCLEX (National Council licensure Examination).

Licensed Practical Nurse Education

There are three different educational paths to becoming a LPN. The educational paths include either going through a college, vocational school, or a technical school. In order to take the NCLEX-PN, the student must have had 1 year of training at an accredited educational program. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008, 753,600 jobs were held by LPNs. The projected outlook for employment of LPNs is suspected to grow faster than average rates.

Registered Nurse Education

There are three different educational paths to becoming a RN. The first is getting a Bachelor?s of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN). A Bachelor?s degree takes around 4 years to complete, depending on the course load and the student. BSN?s are offered by colleges and universities. The second is getting an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). An Associate?s degree takes around 2 years, though some do take 3 years to complete. An ADN is offered at junior and community colleges. The last path that a person can take to become an RN is by diploma. These are offered through hospitals, and sometimes offered through professional programs, including BOCES. Once the education is completed, the NCLEX-RN has to be taken in order to practice as a RN.

Advanced Practice Nurses

Advanced degree, including a master?s degree can be achieved in nursing. Getting a master?s degree is done by going into an advanced practice nurse specialty program. These specialties include Nurse Midwives, Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Clinical Nurse Specialties. Nurse Midwives must pass the American College of Nurse Midwives examination to begin practicing. Nurse Practitioners can get their credentials through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, by taking an examination. To become a CRNA, the nurse must graduate from an accredited nurse anesthesia program. Upon graduation, then nurse must take and pass the Council on Certification of Anesthetists examination.

Other Qualifications

There are personal characteristics that a nurse needs to succeed. A nurse needs to have empathy, be detail-oriented, be caring, and should be responsible. One thing a nurse needs that is often forgot, is reaction timing. A nurse has to be quick on her feet, and know what to do immediately if an emergency comes arise.