Are you a surgical technologist looking to take your career to the next level? With the increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, becoming a registered nurse (RN) can be a rewarding and challenging career path. As a surgical technologist, you already possess a strong foundation in patient care and medical procedures. By building on your existing skills and knowledge, you can make a successful transition to a career as an RN. In this article, we will explore five ways surgical techs can become RNs.
Understanding the Role of an RN
Before we dive into the steps to become an RN, it's essential to understand the role and responsibilities of a registered nurse. RNs play a critical role in the healthcare system, working closely with patients, families, and healthcare teams to provide high-quality patient care. They assess patient needs, develop and implement care plans, administer medications, and perform various medical procedures.
1. Complete an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program
One of the most common ways surgical techs can become RNs is by completing an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. These programs typically take two years to complete and are offered at community colleges and universities. ADN programs provide students with a solid foundation in nursing skills, including patient assessment, medication administration, and medical procedures.
To be eligible for an ADN program, you will need to:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete prerequisite courses, such as anatomy and physiology
- Take the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.) exam
- Apply to an accredited ADN program
Advantages of an ADN Program
- Shorter program length (2 years)
- Lower tuition costs compared to BSN programs
- Can lead to a quicker entry into the workforce
2. Complete a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) Program
Another way surgical techs can become RNs is by completing a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) program. BSN programs typically take four years to complete and are offered at universities. These programs provide students with a more comprehensive education in nursing, including courses in nursing research, leadership, and community health.
To be eligible for a BSN program, you will need to:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete prerequisite courses, such as anatomy and physiology
- Take the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.) exam
- Apply to an accredited BSN program
Advantages of a BSN Program
- More comprehensive education in nursing
- Can lead to higher salaries and greater job opportunities
- Can provide a stronger foundation for advanced degrees in nursing
3. Complete a Bridge Program
Bridge programs are designed for healthcare professionals, including surgical techs, who want to transition to a career as an RN. These programs build on your existing skills and knowledge, providing you with the education and training needed to become an RN. Bridge programs can be completed in as little as 12-18 months and are offered at community colleges and universities.
To be eligible for a bridge program, you will need to:
- Have a current certification as a surgical technologist
- Have a strong understanding of patient care and medical procedures
- Apply to an accredited bridge program
Advantages of a Bridge Program
- Builds on existing skills and knowledge
- Can be completed quickly (12-18 months)
- Can provide a smoother transition to a career as an RN
4. Complete an Online RN Program
Online RN programs are designed for working healthcare professionals, including surgical techs, who want to transition to a career as an RN. These programs provide students with the flexibility to complete coursework on their own schedule, making it easier to balance work and family responsibilities.
To be eligible for an online RN program, you will need to:
- Have a current certification as a surgical technologist
- Have a strong understanding of patient care and medical procedures
- Apply to an accredited online RN program
Advantages of an Online RN Program
- Provides flexibility and convenience
- Can be completed on your own schedule
- Can provide a smoother transition to a career as an RN
5. Complete an Accelerated Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (ABSN) Program
Accelerated Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (ABSN) programs are designed for healthcare professionals, including surgical techs, who want to transition to a career as an RN. These programs provide students with a comprehensive education in nursing, including courses in nursing research, leadership, and community health.
To be eligible for an ABSN program, you will need to:
- Have a current certification as a surgical technologist
- Have a strong understanding of patient care and medical procedures
- Apply to an accredited ABSN program
Advantages of an ABSN Program
- Provides a comprehensive education in nursing
- Can lead to higher salaries and greater job opportunities
- Can provide a stronger foundation for advanced degrees in nursing
Gallery of Nursing Career Paths
FAQs
Can I become an RN with a surgical technologist certification?
+Yes, you can become an RN with a surgical technologist certification. Many RN programs accept transfer credits from surgical technologist programs, and some programs are specifically designed for healthcare professionals who want to transition to a career as an RN.
How long does it take to become an RN?
+The length of time it takes to become an RN depends on the program you choose. ADN programs typically take two years to complete, while BSN programs take four years. Bridge programs and online RN programs can be completed in as little as 12-18 months.
What are the benefits of becoming an RN?
+Becoming an RN can provide a higher salary, greater job opportunities, and a more comprehensive education in nursing. RNs also have the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings and specialize in a particular area of nursing.
Conclusion
Becoming an RN can be a rewarding and challenging career path for surgical technologists. By building on your existing skills and knowledge, you can make a successful transition to a career as an RN. With the increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, becoming an RN can provide a higher salary, greater job opportunities, and a more comprehensive education in nursing. Whether you choose to complete an ADN program, BSN program, bridge program, online RN program, or ABSN program, you can be confident that you are taking the first step towards a fulfilling and rewarding career as an RN.
