Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Erwinna PA

How to Find the Right Nursing College near Erwinna Pennsylvania

Erwinna PA surgical nurse assisting surgeonSearching for the right nursing college near Erwinna PA may feel like a difficult undertaking, particularly if you don’t know what to look for in a good degree program. As you may presently understand, for you to practice as a registered nurse, you need to acquire the necessary education and training in order to become licensed. So it is vitally important that you research and measure the qualifications of each school you are contemplating before enrolling in your ultimate choice. Regrettably, too many prospective students base their determination entirely on the price of tuition and the proximity of the school. Picking the least expensive school or the one that is nearest to your house is undoubtedly not the most ideal way to choose a nursing program. There are several essential additional things to check out before you make a decision where to enroll in classes. But before we delve into that checklist, let’s first discuss what the function of a registered nurse is in our health system, together with the nursing degree alternatives that are offered.

Registered Nurse Job Responsibilities

Erwinna PA Neonatal Nurse with babyRegistered nurses are the most significant occupation in the healthcare delivery system. RNs practice in a large number of different medical settings, such as Erwinna PA hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, nursing homes and even schools. Their primary role is to aid doctors in the care of their patients. Having said that, the particular duties of a registered nurse will depend on their job or specialization as well as where they work. Some of the functions of an RN may include:

  • Providing medications
  • Observing patients
  • Conducting physical examinations
  • Managing care
  • Managing LPNs, LVNs and nurse aides
  • Educating patients and their families
  • Taking care of health records and charts

Nurses with a more advanced degree may have more advanced job duties and responsibilities. Nurse practitioners (NP), as an example, must hold a Master’s Degree and generally work more independently than their RN counterparts. They can administer primary or specialty care services, prescribe medications, and diagnose and treat basic illnesses or injuries.

Nursing Degrees Available

There are several degree options available to become a registered nurse. And in order to become an RN, a student must attend an accredited school and program. A student can receive a qualifying degree in just 2 years, or advance to attain a graduate degree for a total of six years. Following are some brief descriptions of the nursing degrees that are available in the Erwinna PA area.

  • Associates. The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is generally a 2 year program made available by community colleges. It prepares graduates for an entry level position in nursing in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics or nursing homes. Many employ the ADN as an entry into nursing and later earn a more advanced degree.
  • Bachelor’s. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) supplies more in depth training than the ADN. It is typically a 4 year program offered at colleges and universities. Licensed RNs may be allowed to complete an accelerated program based on their previous training or degree and professional experience (RN to BSN). Those applying to the program may desire to progress to a clinical or administrative position, or be more competitive in the job market.
  • Master’s. The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is commonly a two year program after achieving the BSN. The MSN program offers specialization training, for example to become a nurse practitioner or concentrate on administration, management or teaching.

Once a graduating student has received one of the above degrees, he or she must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in order to become licensed. Additional requirements for licensing can vary from state to state, so don’t forget to check with the Pennsylvania board of nursing for any state requirements.

LVN and LPN Training

Erwinna PA LPN assisting patientThere are essentially two scholastic credentials offered that provide instruction to become either an LPN or an LVN. The one that can be completed in the shortest period of time, generally about 12 months, is the certificate or diploma course. The second alternative is to obtain a Practical Nursing Associate Degree. These programs are broader in nature than the diploma alternative and normally require 2 years to complete. The benefit of Associate Degrees, besides providing a higher credential and more comprehensive training, are that they provide more transferable credit toward a Bachelor’s Degree in nursing. Regardless of the type of credential you seek, it should be Pennsylvania approved and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or another national accrediting organization. The NLNAC warrants that the core curriculum effectively prepares students to become Practical Nurses, and that the majority of graduates pass the 50 state required NCLEX-PN licensing exam.

CNA Courses

In contrast to some other licensed nurses, certified nursing assistants do not have to earn a college degree. CNA training can be received at Erwinna PA area community colleges or at vocational or trade schools. The length of the training can take anywhere from one to three months, leading to either a certificate or a diploma. Within the 1987 Nursing Home Reform Act, students are mandated to obtain at least 75 hours of training, 16 of which need to be clinical or “hands-on” training hours. Keep in mind that this is the minimal period of instruction mandated and each state has its own prerequisites. So it’s crucial to make certain that the program you enroll in not only satisfies the federal requirements, but also those for Pennsylvania or the state where you will be practicing. One suggestion is to contact the health or nursing board for your state to make certain that the education is state approved. Along with the training, each state requires a passing score on a competency test for certification. Depending on the state, there might be other requirements as well.

Questions to Ask Nursing Colleges

geriatric nurse with elderly patient in Erwinna PAOnce you have determined which nursing program to enroll in, as well as whether to attend your classes on campus near Erwinna PA or on the web, you can utilize the following checklist to start narrowing down your options. As you undoubtedly realize, there are a large number of nursing schools and colleges throughout Pennsylvania and the United States. So it is essential to decrease the number of schools to choose from so that you will have a workable list. As we previously discussed, the location of the school and the cost of tuition are most likely going to be the initial two things that you will look at. But as we also stressed, they should not be your only qualifiers. So before making your final choice, use the following questions to evaluate how your pick measures up to the other schools.

  • Accreditation. It’s a good idea to make sure that the degree or certificate program in addition to the school is accredited by a U.S. Department of Education acknowledged accrediting agency. In addition to helping confirm that you get a premium education, it may help in obtaining financial aid or student loans, which are often not provided in Erwinna PA for non-accredited schools.
  • Licensing Preparation. Licensing requirements for registered nurses differ from state to state. In all states, a passing score is needed on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) along with graduation from an accredited school. Certain states require a specific number of clinical hours be performed, as well as the passing of additional tests. It’s important that the school you are enrolled in not only delivers an exceptional education, but also readies you to meet the minimum licensing requirements for Pennsylvania or the state where you will be working.
  • Reputation. Check internet rating companies to see what the assessments are for each of the schools you are looking into. Ask the accrediting organizations for their reviews also. In addition, get in touch with the Pennsylvania school licensing authority to check out if there are any complaints or compliance issues. Finally, you can speak with some Erwinna PA healthcare organizations you’re interested in working for after graduation and ask what their assessments are of the schools as well.
  • Graduation and Job Placement Rates. Find out from the RN schools you are looking at what their graduation rates are as well as how long on average it takes students to finish their programs. A low graduation rate may be an indication that students were dissatisfied with the program and dropped out. It’s also imperative that the schools have high job placement rates. A high rate will not only substantiate that the school has a good reputation within the Erwinna PA medical community, but that it also has the network of relationships to assist students attain employment.
  • Internship Programs. The best way to acquire experience as a registered nurse is to work in a clinical environment. Almost all nursing degree programs require a specified number of clinical hours be completed. A number of states have minimum clinical hour prerequisites for licensing too. Find out if the schools have associations with Erwinna PA hospitals, clinics or labs and help with the placing of students in internships.

Nursing Online Classes

woman attending nursing school online in Erwinna PAEnrolling in nursing schools online is emerging as a more in demand way to get training and attain a nursing degree. Many schools will require attendance on campus for a component of the training, and virtually all programs require a specific amount of clinical rotation hours carried out in a local healthcare center. But since the balance of the training may be accessed online, this alternative may be a more accommodating answer to finding the time to attend school for some Erwinna PA students. Regarding tuition, a number of online degree programs are cheaper than other on campus choices. Even supplemental expenses such as for commuting and study materials can be minimized, helping to make education more economical. And numerous online programs are accredited by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for BSN and MSN degrees. And so if your work and household responsibilities have left you with very little time to pursue your academic goals, maybe an online nursing training program will make it easier to fit a degree into your active schedule.

Attending a Nursing School near Erwinna PA?

Perhaps you have already made your decision to attend a Nursing Program in the greater Erwinna Pennsylvania area.  If that is the case, then the following information may prove to be both educational and useful regarding the location of your future Alma Mater.

Tinicum Park

Choose the Right Nursing College near Erwinna PA

Erwinna PA nursing studentPicking the right registered nursing school is perhaps the most important phase to beginning a new career in the healthcare industry. There are various aspects that you must think about when selecting a nursing school. These factors will be prioritized differently contingent on your current career goals, lifestyle, and economic situation. As we have stressed within this content, it is important that you select an RN college and a degree program that are both accredited and have excellent reputations within the medical community. By using our list of qualifying questions, you will be able to develop a shortlist of schools to pick from so that you can make your ultimate selection. And with the proper degree and training, combined with your dedication and drive to succeed, you can become a licensed registered nurse in Erwinna PA.

More Awesome Locations in Pennsylvania

  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Topton PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Wind Gap PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Jefferson PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Bristol PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Kresgeville PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Sunbury PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Gaines PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Elkins Park PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Bentleyville PA
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Hellertown PA
  •  

     

    The location could not be found.

     

    Business Results 1 - 10 of 26

    Old Orchard Health Care Center
    5 Reviews
    Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living Facilities
    Phone:
    4100 Freemansburg Ave, Easton, PA 18045

    Moravian Village of Bethlehem
    3 Reviews
    Retirement Homes
    Phone:
    526 Wood St, Bethlehem, PA 18018

    Elm Terrace Gardens
    1 Reviews
    Assisted Living Facilities
    Phone:
    660 N Broad St, Lansdale, PA 19446

    ManorCare Health Services-Bethlehem
    3 Reviews
    Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living Facilities
    Phone:
    2029 Westgate Dr, Bethlehem, PA 18017

    ManorCare Health Services-Easton
    2 Reviews
    Hospice, Assisted Living Facilities, Rehabilitation Center
    Phone:
    2600 Northampton St, Easton, PA 18045

    Brakeley Park Center
    1 Reviews
    Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living Facilities
    Phone:
    290 Red School Ln, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865

    ManorCare Health Services-Montgomeryville
    3 Reviews
    Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Center, Medical Centers
    Phone:
    640 Bethlehem Pike, Montgomeryville, PA 18936

    Kirkland Village
    2 Reviews
    Retirement Homes
    Phone:
    2335 Madison Ave, Bethlehem, PA 18017

    Lopatcong Center
    1 Reviews
    Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living Facilities
    Phone:
    390 Red School Ln, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865

    Dresher Hill Health and Rehabilitation Center
    1 Reviews
    Rehabilitation Center, Retirement Homes
    Phone:
    1390 Camp Hill Rd, Fort Washington, PA 19034