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How to Become a Nurse in Idaho, ID

Aspiring Idaho nurses must choose from one of three paths to Idaho nurse licensure: A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) diploma program, or a Bachelor of Science, Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree, Nursing (ADN), both of which lead to licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN).

High school graduation is required to enter an LPN program, whereas ADN and BSN programs typically require around 5 courses of prerequisite studies in both the arts and sciences. Prerequisites can vary slightly from program to program, although they typically include such topics as Biology, Physiology, and Psychology.

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While an LPN program takes about a year to complete, ADN and BSN programs take two and four years, respectively. And where an LPN program leaves off in terms of patient care training, RN programs pick up with studies in advanced patient care, nursing research, theory, management and more. BSNs provide time to delve into further focused areas of study that are chosen from an array of electives, which can vary from school to school, but can include such diverse topics as bioterrorism, naturopathic health, or palliative care, to name a few.

Regardless of the route taken to licensure, all nurses must pass the NCLEX exam before they are allowed to practice as a professional nurse. With both LPN and RN versions, the NCLEX is a challenging test, meant to ensure all nurses entering the work force are ready to assist in the important health care decisions and procedures pertaining to patients under their care. However, it sees high rates of success—around 85-90 percent—and students who are diligent in their students rarely have difficulties passing the test and becoming a nurse in Idaho.

More Information on Idaho Nursing

Interested in becoming a nurse in Idaho? See our in depth state page for explicit details on the steps to becoming an Idaho nurse, salary information, job prospects and more.