Registered Nurses
Registered nurses (RNs) are in high demand these days. There is a shortage of nurses in almost every country, from Asia to Europe to USA.Job opportunities are excellent and continue to increase. In fact, if you don't like to be tied down to a place because of your job, this is a profession to consider.
Demand for nurses is so high that an RN can get a job fairly easily in most countries. I know because my sister is a nurse. She loves to travel and has worked in Paris, London, Singapore and is now in Sydney, Australia!
Most RNs work in hospitals but they can also work in clinics, emergency care centers, patient's home and for government agencies.
Are you already a nurse and are looking for a pair of comfortable nurse shoe?
Here's what you need to know to become a Registered Nurse in California::
1) Licensing Requirement in California
2) Duties and Responsibilities
3) Show me the money!
4) Registered Nursing Schools
How to Become a Registered Nurse
1) Licensing Requirement in California
You must be licensed by the California Board of Registered Nursing to practice as an RN in California.
To be licensed in California, you must:
- successfully complete an educational program meeting all California's requirements
- take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
There are currently 2 types of Registered Nurse training programs that is approved by the California Board of Nursing - a 2-year Associate Degree program offered at community colleges and a 4-year Bachelors Degree program.
Once you've successfully completed the nursing program, you may apply to take the NCLEX.
RNs must renew their California licenses every 2 years and complete 30 hours of continuing nursing education during each 2-year period.
2) Duties and Responsibilities
A Registered Nurse's duties may include:
- Provide bedside care for hospital patients.
- Monitor all aspects of patient care, including diet and physical activity.
- Administer treatment and give medications to patients under direction of doctors.
- Observe the patient, assess and record symptoms, reactions and progress.
3) Show me the money!
The average annual salary of Registered Nurses in California is $58,000. Hourly wages range from $22 to $43 per hour. Annual salaries for RNs range from $46,000 to $89,000.
4) Registered Nursing Schools
If you are interested in pursuing this career, both Fresno State and Fresno City College offer a Registered Nursing program:
| School | Phone # |
| Cal State Fresno | 559.278.2041 |
| Fresno City College | 559.244.2604 |