Any current nurse considering the step to becoming a C.R.N.A. must be a licensed registered nurse with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree. Gaining these qualifications takes about four to six years depending upon which educational route you take.

After gaining these qualifications it is imperative to get as much acute and intensive care experience as possible. If you are a nurse you can request a change to work in the intensive care unit (ICU) to gain this experience. Having the familiarity of working with people who are in critical condition is detrimental to working as an advanced practice nurse performing anesthesia. It provides a firm foundation that ensures that critical nursing skills are learned and thoroughly used.

While gaining acute or intensive care experience you should apply to an accredited Masters in Nursing program. There are many of these programs throughout the country but if you are considering anesthesia work then should narrow your search to schools that provide a specialization in anesthesia. When applying for to a graduate nursing school program it is important to do your best on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). This is a test similar to the SAT but only for individuals seeking admission to graduate schools. When considering that being a C.R.N.A. requires a thorough knowledge of science and math and accuracy it is vital that you excel on these specific subjects to be considered a credible applicant to any nursing graduate school to become a C.R.N.A.

After being accepted into a graduate program for nursing anesthesia it usually takes about two to three years to complete the program. While completing the program it is highly recommended to continue working as a nurse in a hospital if only part time in a critical care unit. This experience will make you more attractive once your advanced degree is finished.  Upon completion of the C.R.N.A. program you must take a national certification test given by the National Board on Certification and Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). Once this test is completed and passed a nurse with the proper graduate degree and certification can then begin working as a certified registered nurse anesthetist.

You need to do some homework on the online school of your choice, and understand the nursing prerequisites .  It must be an accredited online school or it may not qualify you for the degree that you want.  Also, if it is not accredited you may not be eligible to take the state nursing board exam to get certified in the state you want to work in.  There are a number of online institutions offering online nursing degrees but verify their accreditation before you enroll and make any payments for classes.

Another good alternative  is that if you already have an associate’s degree and want to up grade to a bachelor’s degree and your place of employment offers tuition reimbursement then you can go to the human resources department and get a list of institutions that they will offer reimbursement for.  That way your choice can be made much more simply.  Just go through their list of online nursing degree schools and find the one that fits your needs the best.

If you already have a registered nursing degree you may want to pursue certification in nursing management.  One of the online nursing degrees offered by Excelsior College is a Nursing Graduate Certificate in Nursing Management.  This distance learning graduate level certificate consists of twelve graduate level credits with four required classes.  The rest can be taken as electives depending on what concentration in nursing management you want to pursue.  These classes are available only to those nurses who already hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing.  With this certificate you will be able to gain leadership roles or perhaps a position in executive management or even in nursing administration.

Once you have finished the program at Excelsior College registered nurses can take the necessary examinations to be certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (Nurse Executive Board Certificate) and the American Organization of Nursing Executives (Certified Nurse Manager and Leader or Certified in Executive Nursing Practice).  To achieve the necessary course work you can transfer credits from other accredited programs and universities; set your own schedule based on work and personal time constraints; and earn credits in your own home, at your own pace without regard to the normal academic calendar.

Getting online nursing degrees to improve your education and ability for moving up within your health organization is a great way to spend your spare time at your own pace.

One of the main responsibilities and goals of a public health nurse is the focus on prevention. In clinical settings such as hospitals the goal is to treat a condition and cure the condition if possible. Public health nurses do treat ailments, but their main objective is to prevent diseases and complications from occurring. Many work in organizations such as Planned Parenthood to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections through community outreach programs directed towards schools and high-risk populations. Public health nurses also participate on councils and assist in research projects to offer data and suggestions on improving access to healthcare for specific populations and communities with the goal of increasing awareness and improving the health and lifestyles of individuals in order to prevent the onset of disease and conditions.

The majority of public health nurses work for the local government, although many can be found working in clinics, schools, community centers and other establishments. Unlike nurses who work in hospitals, public health nurses typically work pretty conventional hours. In addition, many enjoy the flexibility to travel and the pace of a public health nursing job is typically different from the pace of a hospital. Salaries for public health nurses tend to be a bit lower than nurses in a clinical setting. However, those nurses who choose public health nursing find that there are other benefits such as government job perks or a conventional schedule that make up for the difference in clinical nursing salary. Furthermore, most public health nurses do possess a bachelor’s degree in nursing and at least a year or two of clinical nursing experience. Having these requirements provides a base upon which a public health nurse can utilize skills already applied in a clinical setting from previous employment and experience.

In all, choosing a career as community health nurse will provide an opportunity to utilize clinical skills to not only treat but prevent disease on a broad level.

Distance Learning

Distance or online learning is available for most degrees that are available in traditional educational facilities and nursing is no different. The college or university must be accredited with the US Department of Education or any of the 6 regional or 52 national bodies funded by this department – accreditation is the key word here!

The beauty of distance learning is that it allows many more students access to training and education that may not have been available to them normally. It also allows students to complete their courses in their time, so they may work and be educated at the same time, a very necessary evil in this day and age of economic strife. As long as an online teaching facility is accredited it is also allows for eligibility for the same scholarships and financial aid as students enrolled in traditional facilities.

The Online Nursing Degree

Just as the class-based nursing degree is a popular course, so too is the online course; if not more so. There has always been a shortage of nurses and this is still the case. Because distance education is so flexible, it has boosted the popularity of the nursing degree and made it more accessible. Students are able to learn through some of the best universities and colleges in the US regardless of their location.

Practical Application

Practical lab work needed to complete course modules can be undertaken in a local area, and so can other practical classes. The university or college will arrange for this on behalf of the student as it is important for student to be able to apply the theoretical knowledge they have acquired online. A licensed professional will be able to verify that the practical work was undertaken and this is not an obstacle to learning.

In the initial phases of an online education process, finding employment in the nursing field may be a little more difficult than with a traditional degree, but times are changing fast. Employers are seeing the benefit of employees taking online courses as they are still able to work and no leave of absence is required. Recent research also shows that hospitals and other employers are more eager to provide financial assistance to staff who undertake online degree courses in nursing, because of this fact.

Conclusion

Online nursing degrees are rapidly gaining more credibility in the eyes of more traditional institutions. It is vital not to support online scams in this important service industry, and this can be done by only attending an accredited nursing school. It is a simple matter to verify these credentials with the US Department of Education.

In terms of the textbooks required, the nursing student is responsible for the purchase of these and it is stating the obvious that she is going to have to read and study them too. Nursing process is a big deal and the student needs to understand how this evolved, the history behind it, and theoretically, how to put nursing process to practical use.

Every class, from nursing process to chemistry and anatomy will have their own textbook requirements, and they are an integral part of the teaching method. Each text book deals with a specific part of the accredited curriculum, at various levels and new text books will more than likely be required for each year of the course of study. First year text books will not necessarily be helpful in second year nursing and so on.

The study of nursing is complex; don’t let anyone tell you it is easy, they are not telling the truth. It is for this reason that many nursing candidates start as a Certified Nursing Assistant or Licensed Practical Nurse and work/study their way up through the ranks to RN, BSN, and even MSN. Nursing is a hands-on, practical career, despite all the theoretic knowledge required.

The kinds of injuries and ailments they are required to deal with on a daily basis are in the thousands and this is the information that text books contain. They need to be able to discuss all of these conditions in a knowledgeable manner with eh physician in charge and know the exact nursing process to take to treat a patient. Remember in the clinical situation it is the nurse who spends the majority of the time with the patient, not the doctor.

Another very good resource for nursing textbooks is a nursing library, and believe it or not, nursing libraries are available online. These libraries are easy to use and have massive resources and material available. It is simple to find everything the nursing student could possibly require, from research to patient care and these libraries can save a lot of time and heartbreak. They are specific to nursing reference material and these site offer simple abstracts as well as very helpful tutorials.

• Useful nursing libraries include, but are not exclusive to:
• Virginia Henderson International Nursing Library
• National Network of Libraries of Medicine
• Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses
• Lippincott’s Nursing Centre

Nursing school is an investment of time, energy, and money. Your nursing textbooks are resources that can serve you well long after you get your nursing degree.

The demand for LPN’s does not only extend to clinical situations they are in huge demand in the normal workforce as technology advances, and this makes it definitely a career opportunity which is more diverse. Training as and LPN is also a good stepping stone to get started in nursing and advance a career into and RN or even BSN. In nursing there is no limit to how far a career can go.

Overview of KPA’s (Key Performance Areas)

The LPN, like all nurses, cares for the injured, ill, infirm, disabled or convalescent patient. By nature they are sympathetic care givers and they work under the direct supervision of an RN or physician. Depending on what is expected of them, they are trained to and may:

• Take health information from the patient
• Take vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, etc.)
• Prepare and administer injections
• Help patients with their personal hygiene needs
• Perform routine lab tests and take the samples for these
• Care for infants
• Educate patients and their family members about good health
• Supervise CNA’s (Certified Nursing Assistant) and aides

Tuition

Educational programs for LPN’s involve a year of study and this can be done online, at a vocational or technical/community college or a hospital. It is a more practical nursing program than  the RN program for example. Bear in mind that the program has to be certified and accredited by the State Board of Nursing, as this is the only way to obtain a license to practice. Graduates of the program must pass a National Council Licensure Examination, and each individual state in the US administers this examination.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees cost approximately $2 000 but this obviously varies from institution to institution and considering and online college, may save quite substantial amounts in tuition fees. Grants, financial aid and bursaries are available to help students complete these studies.

Future Work Prospects

LPN’s have very good future work prospects, presently they are in great demand and this demand is expect to grow by 14% in the next six years. Hospitals are obviously the first port of call when seeking work, however home health care services, and care facilities have great need of these nurses too. The Baby Boomer population is finally ageing and it is this which is expected to increase the demand for more nursing services. Advanced technology allows physicians to perform procedure in their rooms which were typically performed in hospitals decades ago and this make the LPN role vital in terms of post operative doctors’ room and home care.

In order to become a nurse practitioner or NP, the student has completed a minimum of a Masters Degree in advanced Nursing education and is trained to diagnose and manage common illnesses such as those in the elderly or pediatrics. They are able to manage chronic illnesses and provide a very wide range of health care services. Some of the care they provide is the same at that which is provided by a doctor, they work closely with physicians and can provide regular care to a patient.

It is necessary to have a RN qualification to become a NP, and this can be done through online courses, hospital based programs, community and other colleges and universities.

Patients in the care of the nurse practitioner are from all age groups and the core philosophy of this nurse is based in individual care. They can care for patients illnesses as well as the effects this illness has on the family of the patient. Below are the “Key Performance Areas” or KPA’s:

Key Performance Areas (KPA’s)

Preventative health care as well as education for wellness are priority as this means fewer doctors visits, prescriptions and expensive treatment is required. This nurse encourages patients to get involved in their own care and helps them to understand what to expect. They are often actively involved in patient advocacy. This is a state regulated profession, and because of this key performance areas are varied. These include but are not limited to:

• Collaboration with physicians and other health care personnel and providing patient referrals.
• Education and counseling of patients and their immediate families or care giver.
• Diagnosis and treatment of injuries, infections, and acute illness
• Diagnosis and treatment of chronic illness as well as management of these conditions. This included heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and others.
• Physical examination and collection of medical history
• Ordering, administering and interpretation of the results of diagnostic studies, including but not limited to blood tests, X-Rays, and EKG’s
• The prescription of medication
• Referrals for rehabilitation treatment and physical therapy
• Family planning and pre natal care
• Well baby and child care including immunization and screening
• Annual physical examinations and health maintenance for adults

Careers

They practice in all states, and in all types of institutions, including private practice. Careers for the Nurse practitioner are available in all fields including community health, HMO’s, health departments, home care, hospitals, clinics, hospice, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, nursing schools, physicians offices, occupation health and industry, travel, schools, VA, and other Government departments, free and walk-in clinics. In most instances a nurse practitioner specializes in one area of health care, and there are as many NP specialties as there are medical.

Conclusion

Because of the far reaching possibilities of the Nurse Practitioner profession, a high quality, individual and very cost effective health care scenario is the end result of the provision of their services. Insurance providers cover the cost of this type of care in most instances as it is less expensive than always consulting with a physician. And you know how health insurance companies are about cost!

Distance Learning

Distance or online learning is available for most degrees that are available in traditional educational facilities and nursing is no different. The college or university must be accredited with the US Department of Education or any of the 6 regional or 52 national bodies funded by this department – accreditation is the key word here!

The beauty of distance learning is that it allows many more students access to training and education that may not have been available to them normally. It also allows students to complete their courses in their time, so they may work and be educated at the same time, a very necessary evil in this day and age of economic strife. As long as an online teaching facility is accredited it is also allows for eligibility for the same scholarships and financial aid as students enrolled in traditional facilities.

The Online Nursing Degree

Just as the class-based nursing degree is a popular course, so too is the online course; if not more so. There has always been a shortage of nurses and this is still the case. Because distance education is so flexible, it has boosted the popularity of the nursing degree and made it more accessible. Students are able to learn through some of the best universities and colleges in the US regardless of their location.

Many different degree programs exist, including online LPN nursing classes. This provides the opportunity to achieve a 4 year degree in as little as 2 years.

Practical Application

Practical lab work needed to complete course modules can be undertaken in a local area, and so can other practical classes. The university or college will arrange for this on behalf of the student as it is important for student to be able to apply the theoretical knowledge they have acquired online. A licensed professional will be able to verify that the practical work was undertaken and this is not an obstacle to learning.

In the initial phases of an online education process, finding employment in the nursing field may be a little more difficult than with a traditional degree, but times are changing fast. Employers are seeing the benefit of employees taking online courses as they are still able to work and no leave of absence is required. Recent research also shows that hospitals and other employers are more eager to provide financial assistance to staff who undertake online degree courses in nursing, because of this fact.

Conclusion

Online nursing degrees are rapidly gaining more credibility in the eyes of more traditional institutions. It is vital not to support online scams in this important service industry, and this can be done by only attending an accredited nursing school. It is a simple matter to verify these credentials with the US Department of Education.

Before spending the time and effort in applying to nursing school, make a quick self-assessment by asking yourself the following questions.  Do I have the temperament and desire to work long shifts and do the dirty work in hospitals, nursing homes, or doctors’ offices?  Do I have a desire to make a difference in people’s quality of life?  Does beginning a new career in health care sound like a good idea for me at this stage of my life?  If you can answer, “yes” to any of these questions, then applying to nursing school is a good idea.

Once you have made the decision to go into nursing, you will need to decide what kind of specialty you want to pursue, as well as the type of degree program that best suits your lifestyle.  Do you want to go the traditional bachelor’s degree route at an accredited school with an accredited nursing program?  Alternatively, would you rather attend a vocational nursing school?  The decision you make will have a factor in what you will need for the initial application.  Most schools will ask for at least three recommendations or references from either prior professors or employers.  However, your performance on the job, extracurricular activities, or even your grades will not assure that you will be accepted into the school of your choice.  A program selection committee will also review and probably contact your references, order a background check, consider your application essay, and schedule an interview.

Applying to a nursing school of higher education is a practical idea if you want to continue your education throughout your career.  Many times your employer will offer tuition reimbursement for you to broaden your skill base and increase your value to the organization.  Many nurses holding bachelor’s degrees go onto earn a graduate degree.  It is no longer uncommon for a nurse to eventually earn a PhD. in their area of specialization.

In addition to learning chemistry and anatomy, nursing school students are required to both understand and promote health and wellness to their patients.  They offer advice to their patients on topics such as immunizations, health screening, and the prevention and spread of disease.  Nursing students are also taught to be aware of how the environment and socio-economic levels contribute to disease factors.  Understanding the psychology of poverty, along with how cultural behavior and values affect the patient’s point of view of disease is a necessity to delivering quality health care.

As the number of complex health issues being handled outside of the traditional hospital setting increases, the need and demand for well-trained nursing workforce is also increasing, so much so that health care facilities are finding themselves short staffed.  Simply put – the demand for licensed nurses in the workplace far out numbers the actual number of available personnel. Therefore, consider applying to nursing school now! Statistic show that within four years – about the time you will be graduating, that you will most likely find that more than one employer will be bidding for your services, and you may even end up with a signing bonus.  You should expect your first year’s base starting salary to be over $40,000, and within five years, your salary should be in the $50,000 range.

The three government entities with the highest demand for nurses are the Department of the Army, Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Currently the average nurse’s salary for a government position is just over $63,000 ranking 20th in the highest average government salaries. You either have to have a family member in government service or know someone in government service to understand just how good a job with the federal government can be.

If you enlist in the armed forces and test into the health field you can train as a nurse and retire in twenty years with a full pension with benefits from the government with no restrictions on what you can earn and still get your pension. You can then apply for a civilian nursing job and with twenty years of experience will start near the top of the pay scale no matter where you might go. If you decide to get your bachelor’s degree in nursing and become a registered nurse while in the ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) program you will enter whichever branch ROTC you were in as a lieutenant and after twenty year will retire with a much higher pension due to starting at a higher grade to begin with.

You will also have the opportunity to take positions overseas at foreign bases during which your housing is paid for completely and you are exempt from income taxes while in a foreign country. If you can rent out your house while overseas to cover your mortgage you can bank a great deal of money for retirement while having virtually no living expenses. American nursing experience is very sought after in our bases overseas.

Due to the fact that there is a large shortage of registered nurses in the government sector there are a number of incentives for nurses to get government nursing jobs that regular hospital and medical facilities either can not or will not match to recruit nursing talent. Government agencies offer scholarships, loans and even some types of loan repayment for recently graduated registered nurses to come to a government position. Signing bonuses are a new addition to the incentives various government agencies are using to attract nursing talent. If you can get the armed forces to pay for your treatment and then provide you a stable position for the next twenty or thirty years why wouldn’t you become a nurse?