How to Get a Nursing License in Rhode Island

The most recent statistics by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics show that nurses were very well paid in Rhode Island. The average mean income of both Registered Nurses as well as Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses were higher than their respective national averages.

If you have always wanted to become a nurse, then starting your career in Rhode Island is a good idea.

You have to invest a lot of time and effort to become a nurse. Nurses have very stressful jobs because they look after sick and injured people. If you think you have what it takes to become a nurse, then read the following guide for more information.

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, if you want to work as a nurse, the career outlook is very bright. Between 2018 and 2028, Registered Nurses will experience 12% job growth whereas Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses will enjoy an 11% increase in job opportunities.

You have to complete the following steps to become a nurse in Rhode Island.

1. 1. Meet the Educational Requirements

The minimum educational requirements to enter this profession are different for both Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). If you want to become an RN, then you need a bachelor’s degree to start your career. However, if you have your heart set on becoming an LPN, then a postsecondary nondegree award will work for you. Please note that having advanced education will increase your chances of employment.

2. 2. Clear the NCLEX

Nurses have to pass the NCLEX test to apply for their licenses. The test is different for Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses. RNs have to take and pass the NCLEX-RN whereas LPNs have to clear the NCLEX-PN test to apply for their license.

3. 3. Clear Background Screening

Once you clear the NCLEX stage, you can apply for your license with the relevant state board. You will most probably have to submit fingerprints and clear a thorough background screening to get your license. Once you get the license, you can start looking for jobs in various healthcare facilities.

The duration to become a nurse will depend on whether you want to become an LPN or an RN. It usually takes between 1 to 2 years to become a Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse, while it can take anywhere between 4 to 6 years to become a Registered Nurse.

The requirements to becoe a nurse in Rhode Island are as follows:

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Rhode Island earned $59,860 as annual mean salary in 2019. Registered Nurses employed in Rhode Island made $82,310 in annual mean income. Both figures were higher than their respective national annual mean salaries.

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