Registered Nurse

Overview: A career in nursing involves providing medical care, emotional support, and health education to patients across a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and schools. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality patient care and often serve as the primary point of contact for patients and families. Nursing requires strong communication, critical thinking, and compassion, and offers a wide range of specialties and advancement opportunities within the healthcare field.

Salary Expectations and Employment and Outlook: In Oklahoma, the average annual income for a Registered Nurse is $82,110. Obviously, the income range for registered nurses is based on several factors. For more specific information about this in Oklahoma, please visit OKcollegestart.

Watch an Interview with a local Nurse: (link to one you've created and stored on youtube)

Their day-to-day work might include assessing patients' conditions, taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with treatments or procedures. They update medical records, monitor patients' progress, and respond to changes in health status. Nurses also provide emotional support, educate patients and families about care plans or medications, and collaborate with doctors and other healthcare staff to coordinate treatment. Their day often involves managing multiple patients, making quick decisions, and adapting to fast-paced and sometimes stressful situations, all while ensuring compassionate, quality care.

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Is a Career in Nursing Right for YOU? What are the:

Working Conditions and Physical Demands: Nurses often work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They typically work long shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and may be on their feet for much of the day. The job can be physically demanding, requiring lifting or moving patients, standing for extended periods, and responding quickly in emergencies. Nurses are also exposed to illnesses, bodily fluids, and emotional stress while caring for patients and dealing with life-or-death situations. Despite the challenges, many find the work deeply rewarding due to the opportunity to make a direct, positive impact on people's lives.

Specific Skills Needed: To be a successful nurse, several specific skills are essential:

Compassion and empathy – to provide emotional support and understand patients' needs.
Strong communication skills – for clearly interacting with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
Critical thinking and problem-solving – to assess patient conditions and make quick, informed decisions.
Attention to detail – for accurately administering medications and monitoring patient changes.
Physical stamina – to manage long shifts and physically demanding tasks like lifting or assisting patients.
Time management and organization – to handle multiple patients and tasks efficiently.
Teamwork – to collaborate effectively with doctors, therapists, and other nurses.
Technical skills – for operating medical equipment and using electronic health records.

Education Requirements:

While in HS: If you want to be a nurse, there are several smart steps you can take in high school to prepare: Take Science and Math Courses, Earn Good Grades, Take Health or Medical Electives, Volunteer in Healthcare Settings, Develop Soft Skills.

You might also consider taking college courses (concurrent enrollment) while in high school to save time and money. Ask your High School Counselor or a Vista Member for more information.

College or Tech Training: (from AI - what college or technical training do I need to prepare for a career in “ “)

*Northeastern State University offers an excellent “(link to NSU or other college degree page “ program that you might want to consider

Alternatively, if you’re interested in a more technical or support role, such as … (also from AI), Connors State College as well as Carl Albert State College (link directly to their degree page offer excellent associate level programs in “ “. Both of these programs dovetail nicely into a bachelor's degree program at “ “.

A Note About Transferring - Oklahoma provides for many seamless pathways from local community colleges to regional and state universities which allows you to take advantage of a more cost effective way for you to earn credits at a reduced rate with guaranteed transferability. You can possibly stay closer to home and save money and still reach your academic and career goals. Ask your High School Counselor or a Vista Member for more information.

Other Requirements to consider:

Earn a Nursing Degree:

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Complete a 1-year diploma or certificate program.
Registered Nurse (RN): Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Pass the NCLEX Exam:

RNs and LPNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN).

Obtain State Licensure:

Nurses must be licensed in the state where they work, which may involve background checks and fees.

Stay Current with CPR/BLS Certification:

Most employers require current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

There are also many Nursing Career opportunities in the military. Click Military for more information.

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