Nurse Training for Teenagers

Education

• There are several pathways that your teen can take to become a licensed nurse. Nursing schools offer diploma programs that teens and young adults can take after they complete high school. Many colleges and universities offer a two-year associate's degree in nursing as well as a four-year bachelor of science degree in nursing. These training programs prepare students to practice across a variety of healthcare settings. Nurse training also means extensive studying of the sciences. The first part of the training concentrates on biology, organic chemistry, nutrition, anatomy, physiology and psychology. The final portion of a nursing program involves working with nurses on the ward to gain hands-on experience.

Types

• The type of nurse your teen becomes depends on the level of training he receives. The American Nurses Association notes that there are several types of nurses in varying settings and with different degrees of responsibilities. A registered nurse or RN typically has a diploma in nursing and can work in a hospital, nursing home, ambulatory care center, community health center or clinic. An RN performs physical exams and provides health education, administers medications and collaborates with other health professionals. Advanced practice registered nurses or APRNs continue their nurse training to the graduate degree level and are better equipped to provide a host of primary and preventive health care services, prescribe medication, and diagnose and treat minor illnesses and injuries. Licensed practical nurses or LPNs are also known as licensed vocational nurses in some states, work to assist a doctor, RN, APRN or other nurse. Other types of nurse training include certified nurse midwife or CNM and clinical nurse specialist or CNS.

First Aid

• Learning first aid is important for your teen, regardless of which career path he chooses. Learning how to deal with choking, a bleeding injury and how to give an infant or small child CPR are valuable life skills. Basic first aid and more advanced courses will also help your teen begin his training as a nurse. The American Red Cross offers a variety of licensed first aid courses. Your teen can become certified in first aid, CPR and occupational first aid. There are also first aid courses that are specific for becoming a lifeguard or childcare provider. These courses will help introduce your teen to health care as an emergency responder and give him the skills and confidence to help care for patients and those around him.

Volunteer

• Volunteering at a hospital or clinic will put your teen in the middle of the busy workday of a nurse. He will gain bedside care manners, pick up medical jargon and learn how to simply keep up with a nurse. Volunteering in a patient environment will also give teens a deeper understanding of the economic, cultural and social issues that affect patients, their families and how healthcare is administered. Teaching hospitals such as the one at the University of California, San Francisco, offer volunteer positions for teens aged 16 and older. All volunteers have to go through an application process and an orientation workshop. Remind your teen that volunteering at a hospital is similar to having a part-time job; he must commit to a certain number of hours per week, be on time and fulfill all the tasks he is given. Some hospitals and clinics may also offer summertime programs for younger teens to volunteer for a few weeks. Check with your local hospital or community center for information.