Nurses at all levels have become absolutely vital to our modern healthcare system. With growing populations in need of care and soaring healthcare costs, nurses today are taking on many of the responsibilities traditionally handled by doctors. These added responsibilities make it essential that nurses have the best training possible.
Certified nursing assistant (CNA)
Certified nursing assistants provide the most basic level of care for patients, helping them with everyday needs like bathing, getting dressed, eating, and moving around. They also assist licensed practical nurses and registered nurses with medical care, taking patients’ vital signs, and monitoring their symptoms. The CNA program only takes around six weeks to complete in Connecticut, making it by far the fastest way to enter the medical field.
Licensed practical nurses are trained for a higher level of patient care. They interact directly with patients, monitoring their symptoms, administering medications and injections, and providing for their overall well-being. LPN programs take 12 to 18 months to complete and are followed by a certification exam.
Registered nurse (RN)
Registered nurses take on a great deal of responsibility in the healthcare community. They report to doctors and oversee a team of other nurses and medical support staff. Aspiring RNs can either pursue a two-year associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree for their pre-licensure program. The associate’s degree program enables them to start nursing sooner. However, the bachelor’s degree program better prepares them for the challenges of being an RN, gives them an advantage on the job market, and makes them eligible for higher pay.
There are plenty of opportunities for nurses at all levels in Hartford. Some of the primary local employers for nurses are Hartford Hospital and Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, along with 16 other hospitals in the area.
If you are interested in learning more about nursing programs in Connecticut, take a look at the below list of the best schools in the Hartford area.