Become A Nurse In Iowa + Requirements & Licensing

Become A Nurse In Iowa + Requirements & Licensing

Iowa proves to be an excellent state for nursing professionals due to high demand, and the outlook suggests continued growth in the years ahead. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses (RNs) in Iowa earn an average annual salary of $53,520. While this may not be as high as salaries in other states, it remains attractive, especially considering the lower cost of living in Iowa. If you are aspiring to become a nurse in Iowa, the process involves several key steps.

Entry Level Practice Nurses

Becoming a nurse in Iowa follows a three-stage process:

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1. Choose the Type of Education You Want to Pursue:
– The LPN (licensed practical nurse) diploma is the quickest option, taking one year to complete.
– Alternatively, aspiring nurses can pursue an RN designation through a 2-year associate degree program or a 4-year bachelor’s degree. The duration of study directly impacts the depth of knowledge gained and subsequently enhances job opportunities.

2. Meet the Prerequisites:
– Completion of high school or GED is a fundamental requirement.
– For those pursuing an ADN or BSN, additional undergraduate courses are typically necessary, with statistics being a common prerequisite. This phase usually takes no more than six months to complete.

3. Pass the NCLEX Exam:
– LPNs take the NCLEX-PN exam, while RNs take the NCLEX-RN examination. This national qualification allows for the transfer of licenses between states.

Advanced Practice Nurses

For those aiming to become an APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) in Iowa, a four-stage process, as outlined by the Iowa Board of Nursing, must be completed:

1. Obtain a Graduate Degree at Least at the Master’s Level (MSN) Focusing on a Clinical Specialty:
– In-state programs approved by the Board or out-of-state programs accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized agency are acceptable.
– The Board provides a list of approved MSN certificate programs, as well as MSN and DNP (doctorate) programs. The curriculum of approved courses includes advanced physiology/pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacology, patient/family education, health promotion, and maintenance.

– Various specializations are recognized, such as working with fluoroscopy x-ray equipment, requiring courses in radiobiology, radiation physics, radiation management, and radiological safety. Annual repetition of these courses is necessary for continued supervision of machinery use. Specializations in specific populations, including geriatrics, pediatrics, women’s health, and others, are attainable by including relevant coursework in the MSN curriculum.