Hey guys! I'm interested in becoming a nurse, but I'm not sure if it's possible to start working right after high school. Has anyone managed to land a nursing job at 17 or 18? What's the process like? Thanks in advance for any input!
Hey there! While it's not possible to become a registered nurse (RN) immediately after high school, you do have a couple of options to start your nursing career early on.
One option is to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) right after high school. You can complete a CNA training program, which typically takes 4-12 weeks, and then pass a state competency exam. As a CNA, you'll be able to work in nursing homes, hospitals, and other healthcare settings while you gain experience and decide if nursing is the right path for you.
If you want to become a registered nurse, you'll need to pursue further education, either through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). An ADN typically takes about 2 years to complete, while a BSN takes 4 years. After your education, you'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your RN license and begin working as a nurse. Some hospitals and healthcare facilities may prefer or require BSN-educated nurses, so keep that in mind as you choose your educational path.
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