How to become a registered nurse in the UK

Historically, becoming a registered nurse in the U.K meant that you had received some of the best training in the world. British trained nurses are still in demand all over the world. So, what are the benefits of becoming a nurse? How do you go about it? What opportunities are there for you, once you qualify?

Becoming a nurse

Why do you want to be a nurse? Nursing is, without doubt, a very rewarding career. It is also challenging, physically and mentally exhausting and very stressful. You must be totally committed in your beliefs that led you to wish to become a nurse, whatever they are. Job satisfaction is very high, but this comes at the price of long hours and very hard work. If you ask most nurses however, they will say that they would never consider doing anything else. Once you have examined your capacity to do the job, it is time to go about finding how to get there. What is involved in a nursing degree To become a registered nurse, you must complete a three year course at a university that will give you a degree in nursing studies, and a professional qualification. The course is made up partly with academic work, examinations and essays and also practical experience, which means you are placed in a variety of wards and other health care situations and expected to learn on the job. Once you have passed your course, you become a member of the NMC (nursing and midwifery council) and you are eligible to practice as a registered nurse.

Nursing careers

Types of nurses Depending on what type of nurse you wish to become, will dictate your future. Each sector utilises certain skills and it is up to you to decide what you have a passion and aptitude for. A R/N is a registered adult nurse, an RMN is a psychiatric nurse and a RNLD is a nurse trained in learning difficulties. You will need to make this decision before you apply for a place in a course, as it is difficult to change your mind. Career options Once you qualify and become more experienced, you will find that there are a vast array of sectors you can get into. The more experience you can gain from the wards, which are often the best places to learn, the better chance you have of ending up where you want to be.