Program Description

This practical nursing program provides academic, theoretical, and clinical instruction in medical, surgical, obstetric, pediatric, geriatric, and mental health nursing. The program will introduce the basic elements of the healthcare delivery system and the multidisciplines that are incorporated into the system. Concepts of disease and wellness will be presented throughout the program and will bridge across the human lifespan. Legal and ethical issues, with an emphasis on confidentiality and effective communication skills, will be included. The student will acquire skills in asepsis, measurement of vital signs, CPR, and basic first aid and will understand the concepts of medical asepsis, infection control, and universal precautions applicable to all areas of healthcare. The importance of safe practice and the use of proper body mechanics are stressed. Mental health concepts, administration of medications, body structure and function, nutrition, and personal, family, and community concepts are studied. Clinical experience is an integral part of the program. Graduates will be eligible to write the National Council Licensing Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

Program Outcomes (Student Learning Outcomes)

Upon completion of this program, the student should be able to:

1. Practice quality, safe, and relationship centered care as guided by practical nurse scope of practice.
2. Using a systems approach, ensure nursing judgment and collaboration in caring for diverse patients and families.
3. Employ a spirit of inquiry and integrity in providing care consistent with legal and professional standards of the practical nurse.
4. Use information technology to communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error, and support decision making along with critical thinking.

Special Admissions Requirements

Please refer to the “Undergraduate Nursing Admission Requirements  ” policy in the Admissions Information section of this catalog for nursing program admission requirements.

Potential Occupational Titles

Potential occupational titles for this program include, but are not limited to, licensed practical/vocational nurse and nursing assistant.

Program Content

A minimum of 48.00 semester credit hours is required for graduation.

Third Party Testing

Assessment and remediation are critical components of nursing education. Students in the nursing program may be required to take third-party, standardized exams in an electronic format throughout the curriculum. These standardized tests are valid and reliable predictors of success on the NCLEX examination and provide valuable feedback concerning student strengths and weaknesses. Student learning outcome data identifies content areas that require remediation, allowing faculty to personalize student support and intervention. Courses that utilize third-party exams will incorporate the points earned on the test as a percentage of the final grade earned for the course as specified in the course syllabus.