If you’re considering an education and career in healthcare, you’ve probably been bombarded with many acronyms and choices. Two standard options you’ve likely seen are a registered nurse (RN) and a nurse practitioner (NP). Here’s how to choose the right healthcare training programs in Los Angeles, CA.
The Basics
Like squares and rectangles, all NPs are also RNs, but not all RNs are NPs. The main difference is that RNs are trained to be hands-on. You’ll learn to notice if something isn’t right with the patient, such as their breathing, and explore what actions you need to take to help them. They’ll collect lab samples, run diagnostic tests, administer medicines, operate machines, and do other hands-on tasks.
An NP learns all this as well, but they’ll also learn how and why the issue occurred. Depending on the state, NPs can also prescribe and manage medication for the patient. Additionally, NPs might also do the following:
• Interpreting diagnostic tests, such as X-rays
• Diagnosing certain conditions, such as Diabetes
• Advising patients of actions they can take to improve overall health
• Counseling patients about how to find resources
• Mentoring other nurses
Educational Differences
Regardless of your chosen healthcare training programs in Los Angeles, CA, you’ll need more education and training to become an NP since it’s more advanced (and pays more) than an RN. To become an RN, you need an associate’s or bachelor’s in nursing and pass the nurse licensing exam. You could also choose an accelerated nursing program if you have a degree in something other than nursing.
NPs must complete either a master’s or doctoral program and complete advanced clinical training.
Whether you want to become an RN or plan on going even further and becoming an NP, education and a healthcare career is a rewarding experience full of different paths and specialties you can take.
If you want a career in medicine, visit Angeles College to learn about their healthcare training programs in Los Angeles, CA.
