Sports medicine nursing is one of the most rewarding careers in healthcare.
It combines the needs of athletes with the demands of a high-pressure job and requires you to be at your best under pressure.
It is also one of the most well-paying industries worldwide.
If you’re interested in becoming a sports medicine nurse, here are some tips for getting started:
Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree
According to a report, 65.2% of registered nurses in the US have earned the degree of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
To become a sports medicine nurse, you should have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
A BSN is usually required for most positions as an RN and is often the minimum requirement for jobs in nursing administration.
You can earn a BSN degree through traditional coursework at a college or university or obtain it through a program like distance accelerated BSN online.
To become a sports medicine nurse, you must earn your BSN before starting the step-down program that leads to your MSN degree (Master of Science in Nursing).
This step-down program is generally referred to as “MSN/AAS” or “MSN/ASN,” depending on whether you already have an associate’s degree or not when you enter the program.
These abbreviations are Master of Science in Nursing/Associate Degree Specialization and Master of Science in Nursing/Associate Degree Completion.
Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN)
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics claims that more than three million registered nurses are in the US.
To become an RN, you must clear National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
This exam is a computerized test that assesses your knowledge and skills in healthcare. You can take it multiple times if you don’t pass on your first try.
If you are like most people, however, you will only be able to take this test once every three months to maintain your eligibility.
Make sure you know how many times it will allow before deciding when and where to take it.
Also, remember that even if you pass on the first try with flying colors, there might still be some hurdles ahead of you before becoming licensed.
Your state may require additional testing or education depending on where they intend to use as a nurse practitioner or other advanced roles such as a nursing educator or administrator at an accredited institution of higher learning.
Obtain Clinical Experience
As a sports medicine nurse, obtaining clinical experience or a couple of years of fellowship in a sports medicine setting is essential.
The most common way to do this is through an internship or externship program.
Internships are hands-on programs that allow you to obtain valuable experience and make connections that could lead to a job offer.
Externships are similar programs but usually only last for one semester and offer fewer clinical opportunities than internships.
If you cannot find an internship or externship program at your school, there are other ways of getting this type of hands-on training without traveling far away from home.
You can volunteer as an athletic trainer at local high schools or colleges (often, they will provide training).
Another option would be taking classes at your local community college, where they may offer courses specifically designed for athletic trainers who want additional skills before entering the workforce full-time as an athletic trainer.
Register for and Complete Professional Coursework in Sports Medicine
To become a sports medicine nurse, you’ll need to complete at least an associate’s degree in nursing and then continue your education with a bachelor’s degree.
You’ll also want to earn a certified athletic trainer (ATC) certification from the Board of Certification.
The specific type of sports medicine that interests you will determine what kind of nursing program you should pursue.
For example, if you’re interested in working with athletes on an individual or team basis, consider becoming a competitive or recreational therapist instead of working with athletes on and off the field/court/rink/etc.
You Don’t Need to Be an Athlete to Work as a Sports Medicine Nurse
Contrary to what you might think, you don’t need to be an athlete to work as a sports medicine nurse.
There are many different types of sports medicine nurses. Some treat athletes, while others specialize in treating individuals who have been injured or disabled through accidents or natural causes.
It might be the right career path if you enjoy working with people and helping them get back on their feet after an injury.
You can work in private practice offices or hospitals. Some nurses even choose to become coaches.
Conclusion
If you want to work in sports medicine, starting with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is essential.
You can then apply for the NCLEX-RN exam, and once you pass this test, you will be able to obtain clinical experience.
Once you have completed your training program or worked as an RN for several years, it may be time for further education, such as professional coursework in sports medicine (PCSM).
