How to Become an RN in NY

Considering becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in New York? In order to become an RN in NY, there are specific steps and requirements aspiring nurses will need to take. Being a nurse is a rewarding and respected career. New York has a high demand for Registered Nurses, having a projection of employment to grow by 6% according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor from 2023-2033. This is faster than the average for all occupations meaning no shortage of job opportunities. Not only does becoming a Registered Nurse offer stability, but you also have opportunities for career advancement and competitive pay. Whether you’re already in school to become an RN, or you’re looking into this career, this blog will go over everything you need to know about how to become an RN in NY.

What is a Registered Nurse?

A Registered Nurse, or RN, is an advanced licensed nursing professional. RNs are responsible for a wide variety of patient care activities, including but not limited to, administering medications, taking vital signs, and conducting diagnostic tests. RNs work collaboratively with doctors and other healthcare professionals to provide high quality patient-centered care. It’s important to note that in many states becoming an RN does not require earning a bachelor’s degree, although many nursing students take this route to earn their RN license. However, for aspiring nurses in New York, it is required for RNs to earn their bachelor’s degree and earn the BSN credential. This is due to the BSN in 10 law that was passed back in 2017. What this means is that any Registered Nurse who obtained a license after December 18^th, 2017, must complete and earn their bachelor’s degree within 10 years of their initial licensure to continue practicing.

What Are RNs Responsibilities?

Registered Nurses are responsible for a multitude of duties where they provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and families about health conditions, and provide both advice and emotional support. Depending on where you’re working as an RN, your duties will vary. Typical responsibilities for RNs include:

• Assessing patients’ conditions
• Administer medication and treatment plans
• Provide wound care
• Record patients’ medical histories and symptoms
• Consult and collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals
• Develop and implement patient care plans
• Help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results
• Operate and monitor medical equipment
• Teach patients and families how to manage illnesses or injuries

Where Do RNs Work?

Registered Nurses have a wide variety of work settings they can choose to work in. Below are the most common settings RNs work in:

• Hospitals
• Long Term Care Facilities
• Clinics and Outpatient Centers
• Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities
• Physicians’ Office
• Schools
• Home Healthcare Agencies

How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in NY

1. Complete and pass an accredited nursing program

In order for you to become a licensed RN in NY, you must take and complete an accredited nursing program either through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). There are three different educational pathways you can choose from to earn your nursing license:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Average of 2 years to complete
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Average of 4 years to complete
• Accelerated BSN (ABSN): Average of 12-18 months to complete

2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam

After completing your education courses and passing the nursing program of your choosing, you must take and pass the NCLEX-RN. The NCLEX-RN stands for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. This is the exam that allows you to obtain your state license and start practicing as a professional nurse.

3. Obtain a New York State RN license

After you have passed the NCLEX-RN exam, you are now eligible to apply for your state license. According to the New York State Education Department (NYSED), you’ll also be required to take an infection control and child abuse coursework, as well as undergo a criminal background check. After your application is reviewed, the NYSED will issue you a license parchment and registration certificate. Your license must be renewed every three (3) years to continue practicing.

4. Gain clinical experience

Many, if not all, healthcare employers prefer to hire nurses with hands-on experience. However, this shouldn’t be an issue considering in order to be licensed, clinical experience is required. If you have other experiences including internships, clinical rotations, or working as a CNA can provide much more valuable experience and boost job opportunities.

5. Apply for your first job as an RN in NY

After you have received your license, you are now eligible to apply for your first professional nursing job. There are many different ways you can land your first RN job in NY. Consider job boards, staffing agencies, networking, and residency programs to give you a wide variety of options to choose from. Horizon Healthcare Staffing can find you the perfect RN job in NY according to your schedule, skills, and interests.

Final Thoughts

Registered Nurses are real life healthcare heroes. It takes an empathetic, dedicated, and passionate individual to devote their career towards taking care of others. If you’re an aspiring nurse looking to be licensed in New York State, this blog on how to become an RN in NY should tell you everything you need to know. There are many accredited NY nursing programs for you to choose from, between online to in person and everything in between. Horizon Healthcare Staffing wishes you the best luck on your journey towards becoming an RN in New York. Once you have met all the requirements, send us your resume and we’ll connect you with your dream job as an RN in NY!