How to Qualify for RN Jobs in Atlanta and Rest of Georgia
As per government data, over 140,000 licensed nurses’ practice in Georgia, and most of them work as RNs (Registered Nurses). Georgia ranks fifth place among the US states for the projected growth rate of RN employment, which beats the national average. The numbers of RN jobs in Atlanta (in Georgia) are poised to touch great heights.
Becoming a nurse
To become an RN in Georgia, one must earn an undergraduate degree in nursing, pass the licensure exam and apply to the Georgia Board of Nursing (GBN).
RN’s can earn either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The RNs with licenses are able to find top jobs in leading hospitals in Atlanta and the rest of Georgia. Many opt to progress their careers with specialty certifications or graduate degrees in nursing.
The steps to be an RN in Atlanta are as follows:
- Apply to a BSN or ADN program
Graduates of ADN programs of 2 years will qualify to apply for their RN license. But a BSN program of 4 years provides more detailed and effective preparation and leads to more career opportunities and higher salaries.
- Pass NCLEX-RN exam
Graduates of nursing schools usually take the National Council Licensure Exam for RN’s (NCLEX-RN exam). This is typically within a month of completing their programs but must be taken within a limit of 3 years after completing their graduation.
- Apply at local hospitals
Atlanta and the rest of Georgia boast of top hospitals in the country. A study by Emory School of Nursing reported an annual growth rate of 3% in the RN workforce over the past decade.
- Boost nursing career with certification or graduate degree
In case a nursing candidate earns a master’s or doctorate in nursing or special certifications, she can earn more job opportunities and greater salaries.
- Renew and maintain licensures
RNs of Atlanta and Georgia are required to renew their licenses by January 31 of even or odd years, based on their expiry date. For renewal, authorities demand documental evidence of continuing education as well as certification.
Georgia board of nursing
Set up in 1907, this board oversees and regulates the state’s nursing profession by approving and vetting applicants for licensure to ensure high standards of care. This board also helms disciplinary proceedings.
The website of the board offers downloadable forms and online licensing services for RN’s, NCLEX information, and compact status alert for licensure. The website also lists resources for continuing education and important regulations and laws. Using this site, nurses can access COVID-19 updates and practice guides.
How to gain an RN license
As per the Nursing Board, an RN license can be obtained by endorsement or examination. Applicants who have not held RN licenses ever must follow the procedure for licensure by passing an examination. RN’s who do not have Georgia licensure but have a license from any other US state are eligible for licensure through endorsement.
Salary for RN’s
RNs in Georgia make an average annual salary of $71,510, which is less than the national average. But Georgia ranked as the 8th most affordable state in the country in 2020, with 89.7 indexes of cost of living compared to the national 100.
In sum, these are all the major facts related to RN jobs in Atlanta and the rest of Georgia.