Preparing for a Nursing Career in High School

Interested in pursuing a career in nursing? High school is an excellent time to start preparing! Here’s a comprehensive guide on which classes and extracurricular activities will best prepare you for this rewarding career. Whether you are a sophomore in high school or thinking about transitioning into nursing, this article will offer valuable insights and recommendations.

Why Prepare Now?

Preparing for a career in nursing requires a strong foundation in various academic areas, as well as practical experience. By starting early, you can build a solid background in science, math, and communication, all of which are crucial for a successful nursing career.

Academic Preparation

The following courses are highly recommended to prepare for a career in nursing:

Core Science Courses

Health, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry - These classes provide a strong base in the fundamental sciences. Biology and health classes focus on human body systems, while physics and chemistry help you understand the science behind the medical equipment and treatments you will use.

Consider taking the following advanced courses to further enhance your preparation:

Algebra I and II - Essential for problem-solving and understanding basic statistical concepts in nursing. Chemistry 2nd Edition - Provides a deep understanding of chemical processes in the body. Mathematics Describing the Real World: Precalculus and Trigonometry - Essential for understanding the mathematical concepts used in nursing and medical research. Physics and Our Universe - Important for understanding the mechanics and principles of medical devices and treatments. Chemistry and Our Universe: How It All Works - Focuses on the practical applications of chemistry in everyday life. Foundations of Organic Chemistry - Critical for understanding the biochemical processes in the body.

Online Courses and Resources

In addition to traditional courses, consider exploring online resources such as those from The Great Courses. These courses can provide a more flexible and in-depth learning experience:

Understanding Calculus: Problems, Solutions, and Tips - Essential for understanding the mathematical foundations in nursing. Understanding Calculus II: Problems, Solutions, and Tips - Further strengthens your calculus skills needed in advanced nursing studies. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: How Life Works - Explores the molecular basis of life and its relevance in clinical settings.

Extracurricular Activities

Aside from academics, engaging in extracurricular activities is equally important. These activities provide hands-on experience and help develop essential life skills:

Communication Skills

Effective communication is crucial in a nursing career. Focus on improving both spoken and written communication. Consider joining clubs like Toastmasters to enhance your public speaking and communication skills.

Teamwork and Leadership

Participating in sports not only keeps you fit but also helps develop teamwork, leadership, and discipline. These skills are highly valued in the nursing field.

Volunteering and CNA Training

To get a firsthand experience of healthcare, consider volunteering at a healthcare facility. This will give you a clear idea of what the job entails and whether it’s the right career path for you.

CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) training is a great option. It’s an excellent stepping stone, whether you aim to go into medical school or nursing school. It provides practical experience and helps develop essential patient care skills.

Online Courses to Explore

If you want to explore the field before making a decision, consider the following courses from The Great Courses to see if nursing is for you:

Meaning from Data: Statistics Made Clear Effective Research Methods for Any Project Understanding Disorders of the Brain

These courses can provide a fun and engaging way to learn more about the healthcare field before committing to a full career path.

Conclusion

Starting early and preparing thoroughly in high school will significantly enhance your chances of success in nursing. By focusing on the recommended classes and extracurricular activities, you will build a strong foundation for a rewarding career. Remember, the more you learn and prepare now, the better equipped you will be for the challenges ahead.