Philadelphia, PA
- Nursing may be the perfect fit if you're interested in an exciting and fulfilling career. With high job security and good salary potential, becoming a nurse is an excellent choice for those looking to make an impact in healthcare. Whether your goal is to care for patients or specialize in specific health initiatives, Pennsylvania has plenty of opportunities to become a licensed nurse. In this post, we'll break down all the steps you need to take in order to start working as a full-fledged nurse at Keystone State.
1. Get Quality Education
To become a licensed nurse in Pennsylvania, you must complete an accredited nursing program from one of the state's many approved colleges or universities. You can find more information on each school's website and should research their curriculum very carefully to ensure it meets all of the requirements for licensure.
Different types of nursing programs are available that vary in length and cost. ABSN programs in Pennsylvania are typically the fastest route to licensure, while LPN programs will take longer but may be more cost-effective. You can also opt for a traditional BSN program.
2. Take the NCLEX-RN Exam
Once you've completed your nursing degree and met all of the requirements, it's time to take the NCLEX-RN exam. This is a comprehensive multiple-choice test that evaluates your knowledge of nursing principles and procedures, as well as your ability to think critically. You can take the exam in any state but must register with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing (PSBN) to receive your license. The registration process is relatively simple and involves completing an online application and paying a fee.
3. Apply for Your Nursing License
Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is the last step in your journey to become a licensed nurse in Pennsylvania. The PSBN will then review and approve your application, which can take three to six weeks. Once approved, you'll receive your official nursing license in the mail. After obtaining your license, you can begin finding a job in Pennsylvania. You can search for openings through healthcare job boards or contact hospitals and other medical institutions directly to inquire about open positions.
4. Complete Any Additional Requirements
Depending on where you plan to work and what type of nursing job you're looking for, you may need to take additional nursing education or complete other requirements to be fully qualified. For example, to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you must complete an approved training program and pass the required exam. Similarly, some advanced nursing positions, such as nurse practitioners, require additional certifications and licensure. Be sure to research your desired job role to understand what steps you must take to qualify fully.
5. Gain Experience
Remembering that experience is vital when getting hired as a nurse is essential. Once you have your license and additional qualifications, try to gain as much hands-on experience as possible. This could include shadowing or volunteering in a hospital or healthcare setting, signing up for an internship, or pursuing advanced certifications.
You can also use your nursing license to travel and work in different facilities, a great way to gain experience while exploring new places. The more knowledge you gain, the better off you'll be when finding a job and advancing your career.
Pennsylvania is a beautiful place to start your nursing career. By following these steps, you will be well on your way to becoming a licensed nurse in Pennsylvania. Remember that quality education is the foundation of success; research the curriculum carefully to meet all of the requirements for licensure, and don't forget to gain as much experience as you can.
