The Official Guide for Foreign-Educated Nurses

Book excerpt: "[This book] will serve as your guide before and after you come to the United StatesÖ. [A] 'must-read' for every nurse who is contemplating migrating to the U.S." -Diana J. Mason, PhD, RN, FAAN This book is the only guide to the United States health care system for nurses immigrating to this country as well as foreign-educated nurses who are already here. The contributors provide a wealth of insight on how to address the challenges of being a foreign-educated nurse in the United States. Nurses can learn what is expected of them, how to prepare for the journey to the United States, and how to adapt to their new communities. The book can help foreign-educated nurses understand the health care system as well as their rights and roles within that system. Written in simple, accessible language, the guide will address the topics and issues that foreign-educated nurses care about, including living in the United States as a foreign-educated nurse, nursing practice in the United States, and the U.S. health care system. Key topics discussed: Preparing to leave the home country The process of entry into the U.S.A. Nursing education in the U.S.A. Understanding the U.S. health care system Employment challenges and guidelines for entering the U.S. workforce Foreign-educated nurses' roles, rights, and obligations Most importantly, this book will help foreign-educated nurses learn how to avoid being misunderstood by others, form enduring relationships with American colleagues, and join them in working to improve the quality of health care in this country--and worldwide.