Summary Everything you need to know to become a registered nurse.

This essay provides an overview of the nursing profession, including the educational requirements to become a registered nurse (RN), licensure and certification processes, job duties, and career prospects. RNs coordinate and provide patient care, educate patients and their families, and collaborate with healthcare professionals. Nursing education programs include courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, and clinical experiences. After completing a nursing education program, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and meet other state-specific requirements. RNs can pursue certification in a specialty area of nursing. Job duties vary but typically include assessing patient health status, administering medications and treatments, monitoring vital signs, and documenting patient care. The demand for RNs is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, and RNs can pursue a variety of career paths, including leadership roles and advanced practice nursing.