Practical Nursing

Practical Nursing One-Year Diploma…………..…...43 Credits

•Program Overview

Health services is a growing industry that focuses on providing medical care to many persons. Demand for professionals who work to prevent illness and restore health is wel- known. Within the healthcare arena, men and women with special knowledge and abilities are needed to assist other professionals such as registered nurses and doctors. Licensed practical nurses fill that role. In the Practical Nursing program, students will learn the skills necessary for success in today’s healthcare system.

•Purpose

The purpose of the Practical Nursing program is to provide educational opportunities to individuals that will enable them to obtain the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to function in the role of an entry-level licensed practical nurse. Upon completion of the program, students are qualified to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX).

The diploma program prepares graduates for employment as licensed practical nurses under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. LPN's use technical skills acquired from this program to assist clients in meeting their physical and psychosocial needs. Licensed practical nurses administer medications, perform treatments, assist in preparing a care plan, document care, and monitor client progress.

•Career Opportunities

Employment of licensed practical nurses is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2006 in response to the long-term care needs of a rapidly growing population of elderly people and the general growth of the healthcare field.

Graduates may be employed in hospitals, longterm care facilities, clinics, or home care agencies.

Practical Nursing
Diploma

Program Requirements:

Fall Semester

NUR 101 Fundamentals of Nursing & Lab 4
NUR 111 Contemporary Practical Nursing I 1
NUR 115 Pharmacology 3
NUR 121 Medical-Surgical Nursing I 4
NUR 125 Medical-Surgical Nursing Clinical I 5
*Benedictine College Course:
BI 244-A Anatomy/Physiology I and Lab 6

Total for Fall Semester: 23


Spring Semester

NUR 151 Contemporary Practical Nursing II 1
NUR 155 Basic Pediatric Nursing 2
NUR 161 Maternal & Newborn Health 2
NUR 171 Medical/Surgical Nursing II 5
NUR 175 Medical/Surgical Nursing
Clinical II 4
NUR 105 Geriatrics 1
*Benedictine College Courses:
BI 344-A Anatomy/Physiology II and Lab 2
PY 198-V1 Psychology/Mental Health 3

Total for Spring Semester: 20

Total number of required technical
education credit hours (One-Year Diploma)………………..43