Urology nurses provide expert care for patients who suffer from urinary tract problems, such as bladder infections and kidney stones. They assist doctors during diagnostic procedures and provide patient education and home care advice. A person who wants to become a urology nurse usually needs to complete an associate's or bachelor's degree program in nursing, pass a national licensing test, and gain experience in the field. With about one year of experience and continuing education, a nurse can look into specific certification requirements in his or her region and apply for jobs at urology clinics, hospitals, and private practices.
An individual who wants to become a urology nurse can enroll in a two-year associate's or four-year bachelor's degree program at an accredited school. Most two-year programs take place at community colleges and allied health centers, while longer programs are generally offered at universities. Either option can provide a student with essential knowledge and skills, though future nurses who plan on entering specialties such as urology usually choose to pursue bachelor's degrees. The longer program offers more detailed instruction and may suggest to potential employers that an individual is fully prepared for the job.
As an undergraduate, a student has the chance to take a number of courses in human anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Additional classes are often more vocation-oriented rather than purely academic; this means that students have the chance to gain hands-on experience working with the medical equipment and computer technology they will use in actual health-care settings. Around the time of graduation, a successful student can take a national exam to become a registered nurse and begin looking for entry-level positions.
A person who wants to become a urology nurse may have the chance to enter the specialty right away, though most registered nurses begin their careers in more generalized settings, such as emergency rooms. Working in such a setting allows a nurse to familiarize him or herself with a number of different conditions and patient types. Broad experiences can help an individual decide if he or she really wants to become a urology nurse.
With experience, a professional can apply for positions within hospitals or private urology offices. Many countries and regions require urology nurses to pass certification tests before they can begin working unsupervised. Credentials are offered by respected national organizations, such as the Certification Board for Urologic Nurses and Associates in the United States.
With the appropriate qualifications, a person can officially become a urology nurse. Most nurses need to pursue continuing education and complete occasional re-certification exams to maintain their credentials. Professionals who want to advance their careers further can enroll in graduate school programs and eventually become urology nurse practitioners.
