Practical Nursing

The Practical Nursing program prepares the learner to practice within the scope of practical nursing under the supervision of a registered nurse. The learner is taught to use the nursing process at the practical nurse level in the maintenance of health and prevention of illness, the observation and nursing care of persons experiencing changes in health status, and how to administer prescribed medication and treatments. Practical Nursing programming offers full-time and part-time options. Learners may choose to complete the PN program using a combination of on-campus and some on-line options. The learner will receive supervised learning experience in caring for individuals in a variety of health care settings, such as hospitals, long term care facilities, and physician clinic settings to name a few examples. To obtain the diploma or AAS degree in practical nursing the learner must successfully complete all required courses. After successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for the Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN). The successful LPN possesses excellent communication skills and abilities essential to safe and effective nursing practice as part of a health care team. The program prepares interested learners for future continued education in the nursing field. Graduates can apply to the ASN program for further educational advancement. The Practical Nursing program is approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.