Practical Nursing

Program Objective:

The Practical Nursing program is committed to provide the highest quality education so that all of our students are empowered to lead productive and fulfilling lives as lifelong learners and responsible citizens. Through cooperative team efforts, the program provides specialized training so that graduate practical nurses become successfully employed in the health science profession. Students are encouraged to develop and reflect on capabilities which will foster their participation as professionals in the delivery of health care in hospitals, long term/rehabilitation facilities and community based agencies.

Occupational Outlook

O*NET Program Detail

Curriculum Framework

NCLEX PN Practice Test (Requires Miami-Dade Public Library card. Choose Career Tools | Medical/Nursing)

Program Outlook:

The Practical Nursing curriculum of study provides the practitioner with the necessary theory and clinical practice to share in the care of individuals along the many steps of the health/illness continuum. Clinical experience is provided at local hospitals and selected health-care facilities. The curriculum is designed to prepare the students to take the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Exam)

Graduates of this program must pass the NCLEX-PN prior to seeking employment as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Students are eligible to join the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) organization.

Program Content:

The content includes, but is not limited to, theoretical instruction and clinical experience in medical, surgical, obstetric, pediatric, and geriatric nursing; theoretical instruction and clinical experience in acute, care, long term care and community settings; theoretical instruction and clinical application of vocational role and function; personal, family and community health concepts; nutrition; human growth and development over the life span; body structure and function; interpersonal relationship skills, mental health concepts; pharmacology and administration of medications; legal aspects of practice; and current issues in nursing.

This program is approved by the State of Florida Board of Nursing. Students who successfully complete the requirements of this program may continue their education by entering the Registered Nurse (RN) Transitional Program at Miami–Dade College or other state and university

Length of Program:

This program is 1,350 hours in length and includes 675 hours of clinical experience. Approximately 15 months are needed to complete the program if attending full time. This program contains an occupational completion point designed to prepare students for an entry level job within this occupational area.

Admission Requirements:

• Students must be at least 16 years old and not attending high school
• Application
• Interview by a guidance counselor and department head
• Physical examination and background check required
• Admission test (TEAS Exam)
• High School Diploma or GED
• Fees for Supplies and textbooks are required

Entrance Dates:

This program operates on an open-entry, open-exit basis. Students may enter the program anytime during the school year. Entrance is dependent upon space availability. Call (305) 557-1100 for more information.

Career Opportunities:

A licensed practical nurse may work in a hospital, nursing home, clinic, doctor’s office, home health agency, private home, or the military.

Graduation Requirements:

• Completion of all Occupational Completion Points (OCP’s)
• Satisfy Minimum Basic Skills Requirements
  Mathematics 11     Language 11     Reading 11
• No financial obligations
• Students must complete the Clearance packet to received program certificate.

Program Cost:

• In-state residents—$2.56 per hour (Subject to change)
• Out of state resident—$10.25 per hour (Subject to change)
• Application fee $15.00
• Material fee—Varies by program
• Identification Card fee—$5.00 per trimester
• Liability insurance fee—Varies by program
• Students must purchase books/kits and/or uniforms, if applicable

Program Hours:

Monday—Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Approximately Total Cost:

$5,425.00

Employment Requirements:

• Certificate or diploma program in practical nursing
• Obtain a CPR Certification Card
• Passage of the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) .
• Apply for Licensure with the Florida Board of Nursing

Salary:

The average wage for this career in Florida is $22.46 hourly or $46,710 annually.

Job Outlook:

Employment of licensed practical nurses is projected to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026