Licensing, Career, and Practice in Nursing

Abstract

Beyond entry-level education and training, nursing students and new graduates must consider and prepare for licensure, employment, and practice. Preparing to become licensed and/or certified typically requires extensive documentation and preparatory study prior to sitting for examinations to demonstrate one’s competence. The soon-to-be graduate has decisions to make requiring a clear understanding of the requirements for licensure/certification and the processes inherent in sitting for these examinations. In addition, the student and new graduate must consider their anticipated career trajectory and carefully examine and choose their first employment setting or whether they will pursue a residency or further education before settling into their first official employment in the profession for which they have long prepared. For the student or new graduate with a disability in particular, these decisions and choices may require further analysis to allow for necessary accommodations or needs. This chapter presents the processes for licensure for nurses and offers background and context to assist the soon-to-be or new graduate to prepare for licensure, career decision, and practice.