LPN Programs in Mena, Arkansas

Get your LPN license in Mena, Arkansas - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Mena, Arkansas

Are you considering a rewarding career in healthcare? Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Mena, Arkansas, might be the perfect path for you. LPNs play a critical role in patient care, working under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming an LPN in Mena, covering everything from program prerequisites to local training options and employment opportunities.

Why Become an LPN in Mena

Mena, Arkansas, is a charming small town nestled in the Ouachita Mountains. Known for its beautiful scenery and friendly community, Mena offers a peaceful environment perfect for starting your healthcare career. The average salary for an LPN in Arkansas is around $44,000 per year, with job growth projected to remain steady. For more detailed job outlook information, you can visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics LPN page.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites:

High School Diploma or GED: You must have completed high school or obtained a GED.
Minimum Age: Most programs require you to be at least 18 years old.
Entrance Exams: Some schools may require you to pass an entrance exam, such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
Background Check: A clean criminal background check is typically required.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs usually take about one year to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical practice. You can expect to study subjects such as:

Anatomy and Physiology
Pharmacology
Nursing Fundamentals
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Pediatric Nursing
Geriatric Nursing
Mental Health Nursing
Clinical Rotations: Hands-on experience in various healthcare settings

LPN Training Programs in Mena, Arkansas

Currently, there are no LPN programs directly in Mena. However, nearby cities offer excellent alternatives:

University of Arkansas – Rich Mountain
- Location: 1100 College Dr, Mena, AR 71953
- Program Description: Offers a comprehensive LPN program with a strong focus on clinical experience.
- Program Cost: Contact the school for the most current tuition rates.
- LPN Program Page
National Park College
- Location: 101 College Dr, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71913 (approximately 60 miles from Mena)
- Program Description: Provides a well-rounded nursing education with modern facilities and experienced instructors.
- Program Cost: Contact the school for detailed tuition information.
- LPN Program Page
University of Arkansas Community College at Hope-Texarkana
- Location: 2500 South Main, Hope, AR 71801 (approximately 70 miles from Mena)
- Program Description: This program offers a blend of classroom learning and clinical practice, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
- Program Cost: Contact the college for updated tuition fees.
- LPN Program Page

LPN Employment Opportunities in Mena

Mena has several healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment:

Mena Regional Health System
- Location: 311 Morrow St N, Mena, AR 71953
- Description: A full-service hospital offering a range of medical services.
- Employment Opportunities
Rich Mountain Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
- Location: 306 Hornbeck Ave, Mena, AR 71953
- Description: Provides long-term care and rehabilitation services.
- Official Website
Ouachita Regional Counseling and Mental Health Center
- Location: 1615 Highway 71 N, Mena, AR 71953
- Description: Offers mental health services and support.
- Official Website

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Arkansas, you’ll need to complete an approved LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Arkansas also requires:

State Licensure: Apply through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.
Continuing Education: Arkansas LPNs must complete continuing education requirements to renew their licenses.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs can vary widely, typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. Financial aid options include:

Federal Pell Grants
Student Loans
Scholarships: Many schools offer scholarships based on merit or financial need.
Work-Study Programs

Licensure Reciprocity

Arkansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. For LPNs moving from non-compact states, you’ll need to meet Arkansas’ licensure requirements and possibly complete additional coursework or exams.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an LPN in Mena, Arkansas, offers numerous opportunities for growth and fulfillment. With various local training programs and a supportive healthcare community, you can start your journey towards becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse today. Reach out to a school and take the first step towards your new career!

Which Mena schools offer LPN programs?

Mena LPN Programs (campus-based programs as well as online LPN programs) are medical training programs. LPN programs are typically offered at vocational schools, technical schools, state colleges, nursing universities, online LPN programs, and other higher education institutions.

The best LPN school for you is the one that prepares you for success as a nurse. Many two year colleges that offer associate degrees also offer LPN programs. Exact class size and clinical requirements will vary by each college offering the program.

How do I become an LPN in Arkansas?

You must complete a practical nursing program and pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) exam to be certified and receive your required LPN licensure.

How long will my LPN Course be?

Most LPN programs take 1 year to one and a half years complete. That's a 12 month to 18 month training program. Some nursing schools offer LPN programs which will qualify you for certification after only 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 months of class.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No. Completing LPN training is not necessary before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN degree can be completed in as little as two years.

What are typical LPN Pre-Reqs?

As all schools have different academic requirements to get accepted into their LPN program, Arkansas LPN schools are no exception. You can expect an entrance exam or at least a prerequisite check when you submit your application to determine your eligibility. There may be additional academic requirements also.

At the very least, most schools require applicants to have a High school diploma / GED. You also must get accepted to the college that you are applying to.

Financial aid, including nursing scholarships or federal grant money, may be available to you as a new students enrolling in Mena LPN classes. For more information, check with the Admissions office at the program you are applying to.

Are CNA to LPN Programs Available?

Yes, some vocational schools in Arkansas offer CNA to LPN programs. Usually, a CNA to LPN program will last one year. CNAs who Enroll in one of these programs will build upon their existing knowledge to learn the necessary skills to work at the LPN level.