How to Become a Registered Nurse in Puerto Rico

Nurses are a very important part of any healthcare facility. They administer tests, dress wounds, give injections, take blood samples, conduct various other tests, and perform a multitude of duties. Proper patient care would not be possible without nurses.

If you want to become a nurse in Puerto Rico or any state in the US, you need to have certain qualifications and a special skill set to do your job diligently. Being a nurse is not easy because in their line of work the room for error is minimal.

Read the following guide to learn how to become a nurse in Puerto Rico:

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

The job outlook for nurses in the US is very positive. As per the latest US Bureau of Labor Statistics’ estimate, Registered Nurses (RNs) will experience a 12% increase in job opportunities between 2018 and 2028. The job growth for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LPNs and LVNs) for the same period will be 11%.

You need to complete the following steps to become a nurse in Puerto Rico:

1. 1. Meet the Educational Requirements

To become a nurse in the US, you need to complete certain educational requirements. RNs have to get a bachelor’s degree whereas LPNs can get a postsecondary nondegree award to start the process of becoming a nurse. Getting an advanced education can be beneficial.

2. 2. Clear the Licensing Examination

If you want to apply for licensure to work as a nurse in the US, you will have to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Registered Nurses will have to clear the NCLEX-RN test whereas LPNs need to clear the NCLEX-PN to apply for the license.

3. 3. Apply for Licensure

Once you clear the NCLEX, you will have to apply to the relevant state board/authority to get your license. You will also have to clear a few more steps at this stage, like submitting your background history and fingerprints, before you can the license. Once you go through these steps successfully, you will be given your license.

If you want to become a Registered Nurse in the US, it will take you between 4 to 6 years. You can become a Licensed Practical Nurse in 1 to 2 years.

The following are the requirements to become a nurse in Puerto Rico:

Registered Nurses in Puerto Rico made $35,040 in 2019 as annual mean income. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses earned $23,170 in annual mean income in Puerto Rico.