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How to Start a Nursing Career in Texas

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported over 217,630 registered nurses in the state of Texas. However, the nursing sector is facing a major labor shortage that's impacting all aspects of healthcare in the state. According to the Texas Tribune, the lack of nurses is putting pressure on nursing homes as the demand for senior care professionals increases while the number of retiring Baby Boomers keeps rising. Adding to this is that many nursing graduates have preferred to enter higher-paying jobs.

These factors have contributed to the nursing sector's staffing problems which have a direct impact on healthcare quality. As the state looks to fill in vacant positions in the sector, nursing remains a top choice for students with a passion to help patients recover from their medical ordeal. If you are looking to start a career as a professional nurse, check out the guide below:

1. Gain the professional training

The surest way you can enter the nursing sector is by taking up a related degree, most especially an associate's degree in nursing. However, some states have allowed graduates to qualify for a nursing license after completing a bachelor of science in nursing. Make sure to choose an institution with strong RN to NP online programs available in Texas, although you could sign up for an accelerated nursing program from an accredited institution.  It offers a surefire path for students and professionals pursuing a second degree. With a duration of 15 to 16 months, the program would be the quickest way to obtain a nursing degree and qualify for certification.

2. Take the Licensure Exam

To start working as a registered nurse in Texas, you must pass a licensure exam after completing your associate degree or bachelor of science degree with a GPA of no less than 2.5 or 3.0. The Texas Board of Nursing administers the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. However, you still need to pass a nursing jurisprudence exam which tests your knowledge of the ethical, legal, and cultural aspects of the profession. Once you have passed these exams, you must undergo renewal every two years.

3. Consider Continuing Education

Under Texas professional rules, registered nurses will need to undergo at least 20 hours of Continuing Nursing Education or CNE to qualify for renewal. You can earn CNE credits through several means, including professional development activities in the form of seminars and conferences. Online courses and training sessions can also help you earn CNE hours. In most cases, your employer or the institution you work for shoulders the cost of the CNE opportunities you take.

4. Start Your Job Search

Once you have earned a nursing license, you can look for an employer that gives you the best benefits. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 61% of registered nurses work in both private and public hospitals. Others would prefer working in the education sector as school nurses, while some would apply for positions in private clinics or nursing homes. Whichever the case, being a registered nurse offers numerous career paths to choose from.

As the staffing crisis continues, nursing graduates have lots of career opportunities waiting for them in today’s job market. If you want to be among them, consider these tips for kickstarting your career in this field.

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