This document is one in a series designed to provide basic information about mainline health professions and the Premedical Office at Xavier University of Louisiana. This document is intended for information purposes regarding the field of Nursing; Xavier University of Louisiana does NOT have a Nursing program. Please go to www.aacn.nche.edu to view a list of Nursing programs.

What is Nursing? Nursing is an allied-profession that seeks to promote health, prevent disease, and help patients cope with illness. Nurses provide care for the sick, injured, convalescent, and disabled under the direct supervision of physicians.

What Do Nurses Do? In the U.S., the most common types of nurses are: 1) Registered Nurses (RNs), and 2) Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). LPNs are basically "assistants" to registered nurses and in most cases, perform tasks and work duties under the direct supervision of a registered nurse or physician. RNs are responsible for providing direct patient care, assisting physicians during surgery, treatments and exams, adminstering medication, and assisting in convalescent rehabilition. Most RNs work in hospitals, while others are found in doctors' offices, home health companies, and public health facilities. RNs may choose to further their education by entering graduate nursing programs in research, consulting, teaching, or a clinical specialization (e.g. nurse anesthesist, certified nurse midwife, etc.). Nurse Practicioners are RNs who have gone on to get advanced training to provide basic, primary healthcare. Nurse Practioners diagnose and treat common acute illnesses and injury and may also prescribe medication. Nurse Practioners must be certified and licensed by the state in which they practice.

Is There a Need for Nurses? Yes!! Due to an aging RN workforce and the increase in the number of individuals requiring healthcare, qualified RNs are in high demand. The need for LPNs is expected to grow rapidly in the areas of home health care and nursing homes as the number of aged and disabled persons grows.

What Are The Requirements for Entry into Nursing School? There are three major educational paths that lead to registered nursing (RN): 1) bachelor's of science degree in nursing (BSN), 2) associate degree in nursing (ADN), and 3) diploma. The number of programs offering diplomas in nursing is rapidly declining. Many ADN and diploma educated nurses later enter bachelor's programs to prepare for broader scope of nursing practice. Accelerated BSN programs are available for individuals who have a bachelor's degree or higher in another field and who are interested in nursing. Depending on the school, BSN progams can last between 12-48 months. Students who are currently enrolled in a college or university should contact nursing programs to see what courses might transfer. Students may be required to take an entrance examination (e.g. The National League for Nursing Pre-admission Examination--NLN PAX). Admission requirements vary depending on the particular school and program. Contact nursing schools directly to obtain admission information to determine eligibility.

What Is the Curriculum in Nursing School? In general, nursing education includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical experience in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Students take courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology and other behavioral sciences, and nursing. Supervised clinical experience is provided in hospital departments such as pediatrics, psychiatry, maternity, and surgery. In all States and the District of Columbia, students must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass a national licensing exam in order to obtain a nursing license.

Where To Obtain Additional Information about Nursing