Why Become a Nurse in Vermont?
Making a career change can be a major decision. For many individuals desiring a career in health care, becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Vermont might be one of the most fulfilling decisions. This blog explores why becoming a nurse in Vermont is an excellent career choice and includes the core responsibilities and skills required for RNs.
Nursing as a second career is an exciting option for those with transferable skills, such as adaptability, attention to detail, and problem-solving. In fact, many service-oriented jobs may include aspects of communication and critical thinking that provide strong foundations for a smooth transition into nursing. If you are interested in how to become a nurse, the educational path is possible at an accelerated pace for those with a current bachelor’s degree in another field.
Demand for Nurses in Vermont
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, national employment of RNs is expected to increase by 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations. In Vermont, the average annual salary for RNs in May 2023 was reported as approximately $88,380 or $42.49 hourly, which compares to an average annual salary of $62,780 or $30.18 hourly for all occupations in the state.
Vermont has a relatively high concentration of nursing jobs, consistent with state and area data for many locations in the country. This demand for nurses throughout communities across the nation is created by interrelated factors like an aging population with increased healthcare needs. Job stability and ample growth opportunities for nurses in Vermont provide a meaningful context for you to advance your career.
Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in Vermont
As you weigh the option of becoming a nurse in Vermont, consider how Vermont offers numerous benefits from a professional and personal perspective. Integrated health care systems in Vermont allow nurses to work across a wide range of care settings. Specialization with the chance to attain additional certifications is possible within various populations including:
- Pediatric or geriatric nursing
- Critical care
- Mental health
- Palliative care and hospice
A recent report shows positive progress from Vermont’s dedicated efforts to ensure all people in the state are given the chance to thrive as they age. Age Strong Vermont is a 10-year visionary plan showcasing the state’s commitment to enhance wellness of Vermont residents. Vermont nurses may benefit from a balanced lifestyle with opportunities for outdoor recreation and close community while serving in essential roles for improving healthcare access.
Vermont is also a member state of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs with compact licensure to practice in other compact states without needing to obtain a new nursing license for each. This increases job flexibility and mobility, opening up opportunities to work in various locations across the country with streamlined management of licensure requirements.
Core Responsibilities of a Registered Nurse
Patient care is the foremost responsibility of nurses on the front lines of care provision. Many RNs interact directly with patients and families as they conduct health histories and physical assessments, administer medications, educate on disease processes, manage cases, monitor health progress, and more.
Nurses are patient advocates and collaborate closely with an interdisciplinary team while documenting every aspect of the nursing care they provide. Accelerated nursing programs for Vermont residents include didactic coursework and immersive experiences to help you learn and practice these core responsibilities.
As a student in an accredited nursing program, you will engage in supervised clinicals as you are introduced to real-world nursing care. Clinical rotations help build your confidence as you gain experience, thereby facilitating your transition into professional nursing after graduation and attainment of RN licensure in Vermont.
Educational Pathway to Becoming a Vermont Nurse
If you have a bachelor’s degree in another field and are eager to begin your nursing career, you might choose an accelerated nursing program leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. These programs are called Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs and are designed specifically to leverage prior education for the potential of becoming a nurse in one year.
ABSN programs combine intense coursework, clinical immersion, and practical clinical training. They condense traditional nursing education into an efficient yet thorough program that prepares students to sit for the nursing licensure examination (NCLEX). Here is a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect from enrollment preparation to thriving in your first nursing job.
Gather Your Application Materials
To begin applying for an ABSN program, you'll need to gather your materials. These typically include a strong academic record and prerequisites in subjects like biology, chemistry, and anatomy. You can submit your application after confirming you meet the program's requirements. You may also be asked to submit references or a personal statement.
Complete Your Nursing Curriculum
Once you choose a hybrid ABSN program and are accepted as a student, you will engage in a combination of online learning and on-campus immersions. Coursework in pathophysiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, and patient care prepares you for hands-on experience during clinical rotations. You will refine your nursing skills under the supervision of experienced faculty before your required clinical experiences.
As part of an ABSN program, you will complete mandatory clinical hours in real healthcare settings. These clinical experiences range from hospitals to outpatient clinics and give you practical experience while developing the critical thinking and clinical judgment needed to succeed as an RN.
Pass the Nursing Licensure Exam
After graduation, you’ll need to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX). This exam evaluates your knowledge and readiness to practice nursing at a safe and competent entry level for patient care. Once you pass and complete the remaining requirements for obtaining your RN license, you will be officially ready to begin your nursing career.
Obtain Your Vermont RN License
In Vermont, getting your RN license is straightforward after completing an accredited nursing program like an ABSN and passing the NCLEX. Your online application for nursing licensure is submitted to the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (Board of Nursing) through the Online Services System and includes proof of your nursing education.
Other necessary steps for nursing licensure in Vermont include a criminal background check and an application fee. Once your application is approved, you’ll be a licensed RN in Vermont, and ready to enter the workforce.
Earn Your Nursing Degree at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
If you are ready to become a nurse and want to fast-track your career, the hybrid Accelerated BSN program offered by Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is an excellent choice. This program combines the flexibility of online coursework with the benefits of campus immersions and hands-on clinical experience. Visit the program page today and learn how you may earn your nursing degree in just 15 months.