Linda Richards was the first student to enroll in a nurse’s training school. She is ranked among the most influential nurses in the US history. Linda founded the American Society of Superintendents of Training Schools and developed a system for maintaining patient’s records in healthcare institutions. Her hard work and dedication helped promote nursing practice across the nation. She was inducted in the Women’s Hall of Fame in 1994.
Overview of the healthcare industry in Michigan
Did you know that the healthcare industry is expected to create 5.6 million jobs by 2020? According to a report by Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, most of these healthcare jobs will require advanced degrees or certifications. Michigan is among those states where healthcare has become a fast-growing industry. In fact, according to Michigan live, the healthcare industry is the biggest employer in the state.
Become a nurse in Michigan
Detroit Free Press has ranked nursing among the hottest fields in Michigan. Becoming a nurse in this state could open up many exciting job opportunities for you. You could seek employment in different healthcare institutions such as hospitals and nursing homes. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2014, there were 90,340 employed registered nurses in Michigan.
However, before you become a nurse, make sure you have what it takes. Ask yourself the following questions:
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Are you compassionate?
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Do you want to help people?
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Are you patient and cool-minded?
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Are you willing to go the extra mile to help others?
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Do you want to give back to your community?
BSN programs in Michigan
Getting a bachelor’s degree in nursing can help you qualify for advanced nursing roles in today’s competitive job market. Employers are looking for nurses who have acquired baccalaureate level nursing education. There are a number of nursing schools in Michigan which are offering BSN programs. When selecting a school, make sure you check its accreditation status.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
In this program, you would acquire nursing knowledge and skill needed to function as a professional nurse. The program will highlight all the important aspects of the field and equip you with nursing skills.
The curriculum would include a number of courses that would help you build a basis of nursing knowledge. You would learn about the role of technology in healthcare, history of nursing, changing roles of nursing professionals and health care delivery systems. Alongside theoretical knowledge, you would also undergo practical training and learn how to conduct basic clinical tasks.
Here are a few courses you may cover in the program:
Foundations of nursing practice
This course will provide you with an overview of the basic principles, concepts and skills of nursing practice. You would learn about the scientific and theoretical foundations of human needs. This course is usually covered in the first few semesters of the program.
Adult health deviations
This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge of nursing care management of patients with acute and chronic health problems. You would learn theories and concepts related to adult health.
Nursing leadership and management in health care
This course would help you develop leadership and management skills that can be applied in nursing care. You will explore different leadership theories and principles of management.
Case studies in nursing
In this course, you would evaluate patient simulations and develop critical analysis skills. This course could also help you prepare for the registered nurse licensure examination (NCLEX-RN).
Research in nursing
In this course, you would acquire in-depth knowledge of research methodologies and research skills. You would learn how to practically apply research skills, gather information and analyze the results of research studies.
Pharmacology
Students enrolled in this course learn how to administer different drugs and medications to patients. Emphasis is laid on the affects of drugs on human body, principles of drug action, safety issues and legal implications of drug administration.
How long does it take to complete a BSN program?
It usually takes four years to complete a BSN program. However, the duration may vary from place to place. Students must complete all the course requirements and earn a minimum number of credits. Some schools are offering accelerated BSN programs which could be completed in 1-3 years.
How to enroll in a BSN program?
The admission requirements will vary between nursing schools. Generally, applicants will be required to provide the following:
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High school transcript
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A minimum GPA of 2.5
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Completion of nursing prerequisite courses
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Letters of recommendation
Online BSN degree
Due to the increasing popularity of online education, nursing schools are now offering online BSN programs as well. This mode of learning has proved to be successful among working individuals who don’t want to sacrifice their career for academic pursuits. On the other hand, online learning has also made higher education a possibility for students living in far off areas.
The coursework is usually covered online via videos and lectures. However, you would be required to take a few classes on-campus for practical training. Flexibility, low-cost and convenience are just a few of the benefits that can be associated with online BSN programs.
Getting your nursing license in Michigan
Once you have completed a BSN degree, you are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN examination in Michigan. You could apply for a license with the Bureau of Healthcare Services, Health Professions Division. You will be required to submit an application, provide supporting documents, pay the application fee and pass the NCLEX exam conducted by the board. The requirements for international students will differ.
Nursing career
Once you have passed the NCLEX examination and received your nursing license, you can start applying for nursing jobs in different healthcare organizations. Hospitals, nursing clinics and nursing homes are just a few of the places where you can work as a registered nurse. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Michigan made a mean annual income of $67,180 in 2014. Your income level will be determined by factors such as employer organization, specialty or skill, experience and location.