Overview
The Practical Nursing program prepares individuals to assist in providing general nursing care under the direction of a registered nurse, physician, or dentist. Includes instruction in taking patient vital signs, applying sterile dressings, patient health education, and assistance with examinations and treatment. It is designed to provide graduates with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and abilities needed to practice safely and effectively as an entry level practical nurse and eligibility to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
Entrance requirements include:
- a current health care certification or licensure (e.g., CNA/HHA, EMT, RPT, CMA/RMA);
- a current BLS certification;
- an approved Anatomy and Physiology course of 6 credit hours, including lab from an accredited college within the last 5 years with a grade of "C" or better; and
- approved courses of Nutrition and Human Development, 3 credit hours each from an accredited college with a "C" or better
Anatomy & Physiology, Nutrition, and Human Development classes are available at Washburn Tech. Other recommended prior course work to enhance a student's success and ability to articulate include: Psychology, Biology, Pharmacology, English, and Algebra. Taking a Medication Aide course (CMA) helps to prepare applicants for nursing school. Work experience in the health field is highly recommended.
This program will offer students preparation to test for the industry-recognized credentials listed below.
The Washburn Tech Practical Nursing program is in alignment with the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) CIP Code 51.3901: Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training. A program that prepares individuals to assist in providing general nursing care under the direction of a registered nurse, physician, or dentist. Includes instruction in taking patient vital signs, applying sterile dressings, patient health education, and assistance with examinations and treatment.
The Health Occupations Division has partnered with Verified Credentials, LLC to track student health clearance records and conduct background checks and drug screens. Failure to submit any of the requested documentation by the designated due date will prevent a student from continuing with the program. Students may not participate in any clinical practicums without being compliant with all health clearance requirements. Some clinical sites have more stringent requirements; students placed at those sites will be expected to meet such requirements. Once a clinical site is identified, if there are additional requirements, students will work with course coordinators to ensure compliance.
Program Information
- TEAS Test: Minimum score of 55
- Program Start (semesters): August; January; Summer (Prerequisites)
- Financial Aid available (for post-secondary students only): Yes
- Veteran Benefits Eligible (for post-secondary students only): Yes
- Industry-recognized credentials: Licensed Practical Nurse
