The healthcare field is currently in need of a larger workforce, and one position in high demand is registered nurse (RN). Registered nurses, like licensed practical nurses (LPNs), provide direct care to patients such as checking vital signs, changing bandages, and administering medicines. Furthermore, RNs are also involved in planning out a patient’s care by examining the patient’s overall needs. As a registered nurse, you may also supervise other nurses, such as LPNs and nursing assistants, to provide direction for patient care.
To become an RN, there are two main options available to you. If you are looking to begin your career as quickly as possible, you can earn a two-year associate’s degree. However, most of the major employers in Washington, DC, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs and MedStar National Rehabilitation Center, prefer RNs with a bachelor’s degree, which takes four years to complete. Upon graduating from one of these programs, you will need to pass an exam to officially receive your license for nursing.
The list below contains some of the best registered nursing programs in the DC area.