Qualifications
The usual paths into nursing are the obtaining of a bachelor's or associate's degree (although most states require you to be a Certified Nurse Aide before you even start school). Very often, you can get in at the ground floor and work toward your qualifying degree while doing low-level, minimal brain cell stuff in a healthcare facility that's willing to work with you a bit. If you're looking to become an advanced practice nurse, you'll need a master's degree. More school, more pressure, more money.
Because this is a real "people" business, you should be very personable and warmhearted as well. This world doesn't need any more Nurse Ratcheds.