Become a Nurse >> Browse Articles >> NCLEX

Become a Nurse >> Browse Articles >> Nursing 101

Become a Nurse >> Browse Articles >> Nursing School

Do You Have What it Takes to Be a Nurse?

Do I need to be a whiz at math and science?

Although basic math and science aptitudes are necessary, you won’t flunk out if you don’t have the periodic table memorized or if you use a calculator when performing long division. “You don’t need to be a calculus genius by any means,” Burnett says. “You do need to be a well-rounded student.”

Although people considering careers in nursing come from all walks of life, many potential nurses share a surprisingly common set of questions and concerns, such as “Can I get into nursing school?” and “Am I crazy to become a nurse at my age?” Two nurses and a nursing professor address wannabe nurses’ frequently asked questions.

Would You Pass the Math Section of the NCLEX?

1. For what value of x is 2(x+10) = 4(x-2)

14
10
2
-4

What if I can’t pass the NCLEX?

Don’t let a fear of failing the NCLEX-RN licensing exam deter you from becoming a nurse. “Don’t decide against nursing because you think you’re not the best test taker,” says Janet Krejci, PhD, RN, an associate professor of nursing at Marquette University College of Nursing. Before enrolling in a particular nursing school, ask about that program’s NCLEX pass rate. Marquette’s pass rate is usually 90 percent or higher, Krejci says. Many nursing schools offer intensive NCLEX review courses and similar programs to support students who have difficulty taking tests.

Although people considering careers in nursing come from all walks of life, many potential nurses share a surprisingly common set of questions and concerns, such as “Can I get into nursing school?” and “Am I crazy to become a nurse at my age?” Two nurses and a nursing professor address wannabe nurses’ frequently asked questions.

Am I too old?

Nursing schools graduate nurses of all ages. “I would never tell someone that they’re too old to become a nurse,” says Krejci, who knows of a nurse who started in the profession after a 25-year business career. Age can even be an advantage. “Life experience only enhances a nurse’s ability to be as supportive as they can to their patients,” Krejci says. Adds Burnett: “You need to be energetic, enthusiastic, flexible and have a passion for learning, and those characteristics certainly do not apply to any particular age group.”

Although people considering careers in nursing come from all walks of life, many potential nurses share a surprisingly common set of questions and concerns, such as “Can I get into nursing school?” and “Am I crazy to become a nurse at my age?” Two nurses and a nursing professor address wannabe nurses’ frequently asked questions.