Nurses are the first point of care in a community. The World Health Organisation (WHO) designated 2020 as the "Year of the Nurse and Midwife" to honour the nurses' contributions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article tells you how to become a nurse and what it takes to succeed in this noble profession.
Nursing is an ideal career choice if you have a scientific disposition and a compassionate heart. Whether you want to be a registered, clinical, travel, or practitioner nurse, there are structured courses to cover your interests and core competencies.
Various nursing programmes are available today to help you become a qualified nurse. They include short diploma courses and specialised degree curricula. Keep reading to learn how to become a nurse and make a meaningful impact in your community.
Who is a Nurse?
A nurse is a professionally trained individual providing comprehensive care to the sick and injured. Here are the roles and responsibilities you must be ready to undertake if you choose nursing as a career.
- Support and care for the patients.
- Assess the condition of the patients to help doctors formulate a treatment plan.
- Administer medications and treatment based on the physician's advice.
- Perform diagnostic tests.
- Monitor the patient's health and conduct physical examinations.
- Operate medical equipment effectively.
- Make an inventory and place orders for the necessary supplies.
- Provide clear instructions and educate the patients about taking care of their health.
- Ensure the safety and overall well-being of patients.
Why Become a Nurse?
Being a nurse is one of the most fulfilling careers one can choose. It gives you a purpose and lets you touch others' lives meaningfully. Becoming a nurse is not only about career advancement and financial security. It is also about selflessly serving your community.
How to Become a Nurse in India: Explained Step by Step
A diploma or associate degree is enough to help you apply as a general, registered nurse or nurse assistant. However, you must opt for a graduate/post-graduate course to be a specialised nurse.
- Choose PCB with English in 10+2.
- Prepare well for the admission exams to various nursing colleges.
- Maintain good grades in the bachelor's degree programme (4 years) or diploma course (3 years).
- Attend certification courses to build up your resume.
- For specialisation and better job opportunities, enrol for the master's course in nursing (2 years).
What are the Skills Required to Become a Nurse?
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a successful nurse? If you possess the following skills, nursing is a suitable career path.
- You should have a calm and compassionate demeanour.
- Your thinking should be logical and rational.
- You must have excellent organisational and decision-making skills.
- Time management should come naturally to you.
- You should be able to multitask.
- You must be a team player and a good communicator.
- You must be willing to work at odd-hour shifts.
- You must relieve the anxiety of the patient and family members through your conversational skills.
- You must have the ability to handle emergencies with expertise and calmness.
Eligibility, Salary and Job Opportunities for a Nurse
The following sections tell you if you qualify to apply as a nurse or enrol in the nurse training programmes. Also, learn about the salary and scope of the job.
Age Criteria
To enrol for a nurse training programme:
- Minimum age limit - 17 years
- Maximum age limit - 35 years
Educational Qualifications
- You should have passed 10+2 with PCB (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) and English with at least 45% marks (for graduate and diploma programmes).
- You must possess an undergraduate degree in nursing or medical science (for post-graduate programmes).
Expected Salary
The average salary for a nurse in India ranges from ₹3 lakhs to ₹12 lakhs per annum.
Job Opportunities
Now that you know how to become a nurse, you must be wondering about the career progression as one. With more work experience and added certifications, you can progress towards becoming a specialised practitioner, district nurse, health visitor, nursing manager, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse educator.
As a registered nurse, you can find employment in private and government hospitals, clinics, community health centres, educational institutions, corporate firms, and rehabilitation centres.
Working Hours
Working hours for nurses in India should not exceed 40 hours a week, except when required for rare occasions. Compensatory day-offs are available. Usually, nurses work 12-hour shifts.
Keeping Calm and Nursing On
There is an increased demand for trained, qualified Indian nurses globally. No matter how advanced the medical field gets, it will always need nurses. Enrol with WIZR today and discover the best courses for nursing in India.
For more information on how to become a nurse, browse the articles on our website. Connect with our career experts at WIZR for personalised guidance. Attend the skill assessment test to determine your suitability for the job. We also offer financial assistance to upskill your specialisation and gain better job opportunities with a higher pay package.
FAQs
1. Why is nursing a good career choice?
Nursing is a high-demand job. You will never run out of opportunities. Additionally, it is emotionally rewarding. It provides job security and financial stability too.
2. What are some examples of certification courses for nursing in India?
Here are some examples of paid and free nursing certification courses:
- Advanced Certificate in Nursing Administration
- Certificate in Maternal and Child Health Nursing
- Advanced Certificate in Infection Prevention and Control
3. How long does it take to be a nurse in India?
On average, it takes around 3 to 4 years to be a registered, practising nurse in India.
4. Does the nursing salary increase with your work experience?
Yes. A nurse's salary package increases with increasing work experience. Some healthcare facilities even pay large sign-on bonuses while recruiting experienced nurses.
