What education is required for a practical nurse to become registered nurse?

Practical nurses (PNs) who want to become registered nurses (RNs) must meet specific educational requirements. Here's the education pathway generally expected in the United States (requirements may vary slightly among states):

1. Practical Nursing Program:

- Complete an accredited PN program (often offered at community colleges or vocational schools).

- Duration: Typically 1-2 years (depending on full-time vs. part-time study).

- Graduates earn either a Practical Nursing Certificate or Diploma and become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) after passing the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.

2. Registered Nursing Program:

- Obtain a Registered Nursing (RN) degree. There are several options for educational pathways to obtain an RN degree:

a. Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN):

- Length: Typically 2-3 years of full-time study.

- Focuses on direct patient care at both the acute care and community levels.

- Prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

b. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):

- Length: Typically 4 years of full-time study, although there are accelerated programs that may offer faster track options.

- Provides a more comprehensive education in nursing theory and science, as well as a wider range of career opportunities.

- Also qualifies graduates for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

3. Meet Prerequisites:

- Admission to RN programs (ADN or BSN) usually requires fulfilling prerequisite courses in various subjects, such as biology, chemistry, psychology, statistics, and humanities.

4. Pass NCLEX-RN Licensure Exam:

- After completing either the ADN or BSN program, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to earn their RN license and practice as a registered nurse.

Some states offer alternate pathways for LPNs to become RNs through bridge programs or "LPN-to-RN" programs. These provide an accelerated track for LPNs to obtain their RN license, often by meeting additional educational requirements and passing standardized exams.