Registered Nurse and Nurse Educator shares
tips for aspiring healthcare professionals
FORT
MYERS, Fla., Jan. 17,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As we begin a new year,
aspiring healthcare professionals may be considering embarking on a
nursing career. There is a critical need for skilled nurses in
the United States, underscoring
why now is the time for people passionate about helping others to
consider pursuing their nursing degree in 2024.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for
qualified nurses is projected to increase faster than the need for
all other professionals in the coming decade. The American
Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) points to data that shows
the country will need more than 200,000 new nurses each year until
2026 to help fill new positions or replace retiring nurses.
To help guide prospective nursing students on their journey,
registered nurse (RN) and nurse educator Anthony Silva shares tips on how to choose the
right nursing school as well as how to be successful once enrolled.
Silva knows firsthand what it's like being a nursing student as
well as working as a nurse. Silva earned his Bachelor of Science in
Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Rasmussen
University and is currently a clinical instructor at the Rasmussen
Fort Myers campus, which he does alongside his fulltime job as a RN
surgical assistant at a Southwest
Florida hospital.
Choosing a Nursing School
First, when choosing a nursing school, Silva emphasizes the
importance of considering various factors such as cost, financial
aid, admission rates and requirements (i.e., entrance exams) as
well as program structure. For Silva, finding a program that
complimented his previous healthcare experience as a medical
assistant and EMT was crucial.
"Getting started right away and having the ability to complete
my BSN in just 18 months1 is why I chose
Rasmussen," said Silva. "Whether opting for an accelerated program
or a traditional route, it is essential to choose a nursing school
that aligns with your individual educational goals and current
lifestyle."
Being Successful in Nursing School
Once enrolled in nursing school, Silva shares the following tips
for success:
1. Time Management is Key
Success in nursing school requires effective time management.
Silva advises students to carefully plan their schedules to ensure
ample time for coursework, personal life, and self-care. Seeking
guidance from mentors or school counselors can be beneficial for
those who struggle with time management.
2. Build Relationships
Establishing meaningful connections is crucial for success in
nursing school. Silva recommends forging relationships with faculty
members, clinical instructors, and peers. These relationships not
only enhance communication with professors but also contribute to
the development of social skills, networking opportunities, and
better preparation for the professional nursing environment.
3. Utilize Available Resources and
Instruction
Take advantage of the resources provided by the nursing school,
including study groups, library and learning services, and clinical
experiences. Hands-on opportunities in clinicals as well as
simulation labs play a vital role in gaining practical knowledge
and skills necessary for a successful nursing career.
"As a clinical instructor, I always encourage my students to
fully immerse themselves in their clinicals—meaning don't just
stand on the perimeter," expressed Silva. "Get in there and ask
questions and get to know the nurses in your clinical rotation. Who
is the charge nurse and what are they responsible for? What role
does each person play? This knowledge won't just help you as you
enter the workplace, but networking opportunities during your
clinicals could also set you up for success in finding employment
post-graduation."
4. Focus on the Elements of Being a
Nurse
Silva also emphasizes the importance of focusing on the
fundamental elements of being a nurse. This includes being
prepared, staying on top of homework/assignments, learning about
and preparing for the NCLEX licensure exam early in your nursing
school journey, and exploring whatever resources might be available
both within and outside of your academic program.
"As you near the end of your program, don't take your foot off
the gas. Stay focused and finish strong so that you can transition
into the role of a working nurse with confidence and pride."
As the demand for nurses continue to rise in the U.S., people
entering nursing school can make an immediate and lasting impact on
the well-being of their communities. Prospective nursing students
are encouraged to reflect on these tips as they embark on their
educational journey in the new year.
1Completion time is dependent on transfer
credits accepted and the number of courses completed each
term.
ABOUT RASMUSSEN UNIVERSITY:
Rasmussen University, a
university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an
institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S.
Department of Education (www.hlcommission.org), is dedicated to
changing lives and the communities it serves through innovative
educational programs. As a pioneer in career-focused education
since 1900, the University is defining a new generation of higher
education that focuses on competency-based education, technology
and transferable skills. Rasmussen offers undergraduate and
graduate programs online and in person at 22 campuses around the
country. The University is designed to lift and support its
students every step of the way, from each student's first
credential to their last. Rasmussen is dedicated to global
enrichment, serving the underserved and meeting the evolving needs
of diverse students, communities and economies. Rasmussen
encourages its students, faculty and staff to strive for academic
excellence, community enrichment and service to the public good.
Rasmussen is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Public
Education, Inc. (Nasdaq: APEI). For more information about
Rasmussen University, please visit www.rasmussen.edu.
ABOUT AMERICAN PUBLIC EDUCATION, INC.:
American Public
Education, Inc. (Nasdaq: APEI), through its institutions American
Public University System (APUS), Rasmussen University,
Hondros College of Nursing and Graduate
School USA (GSUSA) provides
education that transforms lives, advances careers, and improves
communities.
Contact: Molly Andersen
Mobile: 903.920.4366
Email: molly.andersen@rasmussen.edu
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SOURCE Rasmussen University