How to Become a Registered Nurse

Whether you’re an LPN looking to advance your career or this is entry into healthcare, becoming a registered nurse (RN) is easy. The key to success is knowing the right steps to take before you ever even enroll.

 

4 Easy Steps to Becoming an RN

        1.  Complete an Accredited Program

Once you’ve decided to become an RN, you’ll need to apply to an accredited nursing program.  At this point, you’ll choose between an associate or bachelor’s degree program. Both options are sufficient. As such, the most important step is assessing your situation and determining which path best aligns with your needs.

For instance, if you’re looking to expedite your education, an associate may be best. It can usually be completed in two years, getting you workplace ready in no time. A bachelor’s degree, on the other hand, is longer. It can lead to a higher-paying salary in the workforce, so weigh your options accordingly.

        2.  Pass Your Exam

After graduating from an accredited nursing program, there’s another important step ahead of you. The NCLEX-RN examination is required by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.  With just over a hundred questions and a pass rate of about 75%, most nurses have no trouble achieving this milestone.

        3.  Obtain a License

After passing the NCLEX-RN, students must contact the state they wish to practice nursing in to secure their license. Licensure requirements vary state to state. And in many cases, fingerprinting and background checks are part of the process.

        4.  Seek Employment

With the growing demand for registered nurses, new graduates often have abundant employment opportunities. Better, many nursing programs work with graduates to guide them through their employment search, providing additional support.

        5.  The Work is Never Done

While you can become an RN in four easy steps – the work is never really done. The reason? Learning doesn’t stop after graduation. In addition to the many skills you’ll learn at your new job, RNs are required to fulfill continuing education requirements.

A Nursing Student Today, an RN Tomorrow

Northwestern College offers an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing. Approved by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation Division of Professional Regulation Illinois State Board of Nursing, NC sets Nursing students up for success.

 

Learn more today!

 

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Why Become a Dental Assistant?

Wondering if dental assisting is right for you? Tune in to learn a few of the reasons dental assistants love what they do.

3 Reasons to Become a Dental Assistant

Flexible Schedule

Many jobs in the healthcare industry require shift work that sometimes falls on holidays, over weekends or evening hours. But don’t let that deter you! Dental assistants typically keep normal business hours, giving these professionals the freedom to enjoy time with friends and family.

Not wanting something full-time? There are often part-time positions available for dental assistants. Whether you’re full- or part-time, dental assisting allows you to maintain a flexible work schedule.

Variety

Unlike many nine-to-five jobs, dental assisting offers great variety. Within the field, there are opportunities to work in specialized areas that span everything from orthodontics and oral surgery and cosmetic dentistry. Periodontics and pediatric dentistry are other specialty areas. Adding even more diversity are the various employers. Hospital clinics, traditional dental practices and public health dental offices are just a few common employers. With all of this in mind, dental assistants have the opportunity to work in many exciting environments.

Relationships

No matter where a dental assistant works, their role is solely patient facing. In many cases, these professionals work with a diverse population that spans many generations, cultures and backgrounds. As such, client interaction is one of the most rewarding aspects of this work. Some dental assistants go on to forge lifelong relationships with the patients they care for.

Become a Dental Assistant Today

If this sounds like a good fit for you, learn more about Northwestern College’s Dental Assisting Program.

 

Speak with an expert today!

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How much do medical assistants make?

 

Want to earn a living while making a difference? Working as a Medical Assistant allows professionals to make money and an impact in the healthcare industry.

 

A Look at the Numbers

In May 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that Medical Assistants earned an average salary of $33,610, While this equates to an average of $16.16/hour, earning potential varies by industry.

For instance, on average, those working in outpatient care centers and hospitals had the highest salaries. Salary averages at outpatient care centers and hospitals were $35,600 and $34,980, respectively. Physician offices followed suit at an average income of $33,650.

Earning Potential

The same report found that Medical Assistants categorized as top earners made more than $47,250. This puts their salaries at $8,610+ more than the national occupational average.

Other Benefits

Between 2018-2028, the field of medical assisting is expected to grow 23% faster than the national average. In addition to creating job security, this growth spurt may create more earning opportunities for existing professionals in this field.

Become a Medical Assistant

A Medical Assistant certificate from Northwestern College can give you the tools you need to start your career.

 

Call today to learn more about our program.

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