Prerequisite Courses for Nursing
If you are interested in a career in nursing, it is worth exploring the Prerequisite Courses for Nursing. As you research this field, you will find that there are several levels of nursing and many specialties among each level. In order to find out which level of nursing may be right for you, a brief understanding of this profession is required.
Prerequisite Courses for Nursing: The Different Levels of Nursing
The nursing profession includes four levels of nursing. Starting from the entry level to the advanced level, they include licensed practical nursing (LPN), registered nursing (RN), bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN), and master’s of science in nursing (MSN). Among the four levels, there are commonalities and differences.
An individual at the LPN level is responsible for overseeing patient care, obtaining and monitoring vital signs, and recording medical history. An LPN is supervised by a registered nurse. A registered nurse or RN includes those who have earned a BSN or an MSN degree. Both groups can administer medication, take vital signs and diagnose minor illnesses. Additionally, they can dress minor, external wounds, and perform phlebotomy procedures. The difference between a BSN and an MSN is the level of education and salary. Additionally, an RN with a master’s degree has the skills and training to supervise other RNs or perform teaching duties in a hospital or university.
Prerequisite Courses for Nursing: The LPN Degree
Along the road of pursuing an LPN degree, many courses are required. Some courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, and mathematics. In chemistry courses for LPN students, an emphasis is placed on the conversion of units within the universal metric system. An example includes the understanding of how to convert meters to millimeters. Courses in mathematics explain topics regarding algebra and basic computations. These skills are required in order to understand the concepts taught in chemistry courses.
Prerequisite Courses for Nursing: The RN Degree
Some prerequisite courses for nursing at an RN level include microbiology, anatomy, and physiology. The study of microbiology concerns the understanding and function of microorganisms. An example includes an in-depth understanding of the origin and function of viruses, bacteria, and other disease-causing pathogens. In the study of anatomy, the physical structure of the various body systems will be explored. Such biological systems include the digestive system and the skeletal system. In the study of physiology, the biological and chemical processes of these systems are explained.
Other prerequisites at this level include introductory psychology and English composition. Psychology courses include the study of behavioral, cognitive, and mental processes of humans. An English composition course will engage students in analytical reading, critical thinking, and the writing mechanics necessary to effectively express their ideas on paper.
Prerequisite Courses for Nursing: The BSN Degree
Prerequisite courses at the BSN level include statistics, microbiology, and human growth and development. In a statistics course, some topics include the study of variability and the hypothesis of various studies. A microbiology course with a lab provides first-hand experience concerning the growth, development, and reproduction of pathogens. In a human growth and development course the process of life starting from birth to death will be explored.
Additional prerequisites include chemistry and sociology. Chemistry is concerned with the conversion of units and measurements, while sociology is concerned with the social, political, and economic status of groups within society.
Prerequisite Courses for Nursing: The MSN Degree
Some prerequisite courses for nursing for at an MSN level are cultural anthropology, computer literacy, and word processing courses. In the study of cultural anthropology, students will gain an understanding of human culture and society. In a computer literacy or word processing course, students will familiarize themselves with computer terminology and basic keyboard skills with short-key alternatives.
Additional courses include nutrition and education. Nutrition is concerned with the nutritional value of food and healthy eating habits, while education courses are geared towards teaching MSN students the role of a nurse educator and how to teach effectively in a classroom setting.
The United States has no shortage of quality nursing programs for those who are interested in this rewarding career. Some schools that offer comprehensive nursing programs are Hunter College, Hostos Community College, and Kaplan University. As Prerequisite Courses for Nursing are different at each institution, you will want to make sure you do your own research on whichever school you choose to attend.
Additional Resource: Prerequisites for Nursing Degrees
