The Foundational Steps to Becoming a Registered Nurse
Before specializing in geriatrics, all aspiring geriatric nurses must first become Registered Nurses (RNs). There are two primary educational paths to achieve this, each with a different time commitment.
Earn a Nursing Degree
The first and most significant step is to complete an accredited nursing program. The two most common options are the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Typically offered at community colleges, this path takes approximately two years to complete. While it provides a quicker entry into the field, some employers may prefer or even require a BSN, limiting career advancement opportunities.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Usually a four-year program at a university, the BSN offers a broader and more comprehensive education. This path includes more in-depth training in areas like leadership, management, research, and theory, which can lead to higher earning potential and more advanced roles. There are also accelerated BSN programs for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, which can take as little as 16 months.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
After completing a nursing degree from an accredited program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed RN. The time it takes to prepare for and pass this exam is highly individual, but it is a critical checkpoint on the path to becoming a geriatric nurse.
Obtain State Licensure
Once you pass the NCLEX-RN, you can apply for your official RN license through your state's nursing board. The processing time can vary by state, but it is a final administrative step before you can begin working as an RN.
Specializing in Geriatric Care: Beyond the RN License
Specializing in geriatrics doesn't require extra years of school in the same way an advanced practice role does, but it does require gaining specific experience.
Gaining Relevant Clinical Experience
To be recognized as a geriatric nurse, you need to gain experience caring for older adults. You can often enter the field of geriatric nursing right after becoming an RN by seeking positions in settings like nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or home healthcare. Working in these roles allows you to build the specialized skills needed to address the complex health challenges of the aging population.
Pursuing Gerontological Nursing Certification
For those who want to formally demonstrate their expertise, obtaining a gerontological nursing certification is a valuable step. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers the Gerontological Nursing Certification (GERO-BC™). To be eligible for this optional certification, you must meet certain criteria after becoming an RN, including:
- Holding an active RN license.
- Having the equivalent of at least two years of full-time RN experience.
- Completing a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in gerontological nursing within the past three years.
- Accumulating at least 30 hours of continuing education in gerontological nursing within the past three years.
The time spent on this certification process will add to your total timeline, but it can significantly enhance your career prospects and professional recognition.
Pathway Comparison: ADN vs. BSN
| Feature | ADN Path | BSN Path |
|---|---|---|
| Education Time | Approximately 2 years (plus pre-requisites) | Approximately 4 years (plus pre-requisites) |
| Initial Licensure | Eligible to take NCLEX-RN after program completion | Eligible to take NCLEX-RN after program completion |
| Gaining Experience | Must work as an RN to build gerontological experience | Must work as an RN to build gerontological experience |
| Optional Certification | Eligible for ANCC GERO-BC after gaining 2+ years of experience | Eligible for ANCC GERO-BC after gaining 2+ years of experience |
| Approximate Total Time | 3-4 years (to work as a geriatric RN) | 5-6+ years (to work as a geriatric RN with specialization) |
| Career Advancement | May be limited in management roles without further education (RN-to-BSN) | Offers more opportunities for leadership and advancement |
The Advanced Path: From Geriatric Nurse to Nurse Practitioner
For nurses seeking a more advanced practice role, becoming an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) is the next step. This path requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a specialization in gerontology. This advanced education can take an additional 2 to 5 years after obtaining your BSN and gaining experience, bringing the total time commitment to 6 to 10 years or more. Advanced practice nurses can prescribe medication and manage more complex patient care plans.
The Role of a Geriatric Nurse
A geriatric nurse, also known as a gerontological nurse, is a registered nurse who has developed specialized knowledge and skills for caring for the unique needs of older adults. Their work involves managing chronic conditions, addressing mobility issues, and providing emotional and social support. These nurses work in various settings, including hospitals, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare, making their role crucial in improving the quality of life for the elderly.
Embracing Lifelong Learning
Regardless of your initial educational path, the field of geriatric nursing requires a commitment to continuous learning. Keeping up with the latest practices and advancements in eldercare through continuing education is essential. The certification process, for example, requires continuing education credits for renewal every five years, reinforcing the need for ongoing professional development. For more information on certification, you can visit the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Conclusion
The total time required to become a geriatric nurse is not a single number but a flexible timeline influenced by education and career goals. An ADN path can get you into the field in as little as three years, while pursuing a BSN and optional certification will likely take five to six years. Ultimately, the time and effort invested lead to a rewarding career dedicated to the health and well-being of the aging population.
