Formal Education

• Rehabilitation nurses need a nursing degree, and there are two common ways to do this. Many rehabilitation nurses pursue a bachelor of nursing, or BSN, degree, which usually takes four years to complete. The first two years are spent in the classroom learning the fundamentals and theory of nursing, while the second two years involve more clinical experience working with patients. Those who want to become a rehabilitation nurse should request to have her clinical experience in a rehabilitation facility. A BSN qualifies you to become a registered nurse in your state, assuming you pass the licensing examination. Another option is to get an associate's degree in nursing, which takes one to two years to complete. The BSN degree allows for more flexibility and improves your chances of finding a job, though it is considerably more expensive and time consuming.
  
  

Experience

• After you receive your nursing degree, you should look for a job in a rehabilitation center or rehab unit at a hospital. Some rehab centers and hospitals provide additional training and orientation programs for newly hired rehabilitation nurses. If you can't find a job in a rehab unit, start out as a nurse in another area until a rehabilitation nursing job opens up.
  
  

Certification

• To become a professional rehabilitation nurse you need to become certified. The Association of Rehabilitation Nurses, or ARN, provides the Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse, or CRRN, certification. This certification requires at least two years of experience working in rehabilitation settings, and you must also pass an exam testing your knowledge of the theories and practices of rehabilitation nursing. CRRN-certified nurses are in high demand by hospitals, rehabilitation centers and other health care providers. Having this certification shows you are highly qualified and committed to the career.
  
  

Skills and Personal Qualities

• Rehabilitation nursing is not an easy career and can be very stressful at times, both emotionally and physically. Rehabilitation nurses are typically on their feet all day caring for patients, so having good physical stamina is essential. Many nurses grow close to their patients, but they must be emotionally prepared to deal with loss in the event of death. Rehabilitation nurses also need to be able to maintain a professional distance from their patients at all times. Patient, caring, compassionate and selfless individuals are well suited for this career. Strong communication skills, both written and spoken, are also highly valued in rehabilitation nursing.