LPN Programs in Lake City, Florida

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Lake City, Florida

If you’re considering a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Lake City, Florida, is a fantastic place to start. LPNs play a crucial role in patient care, working under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and doctors to provide essential medical services. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an LPN in Lake City, from understanding the role to finding the best local training programs.

Why Become an LPN in Lake City?

Lake City, Florida, is a charming community known for its beautiful lakes and friendly atmosphere. The city offers a quiet, small-town feel while still providing access to quality healthcare facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for LPNs in Florida is around $47,860, with a job growth projection of 9% from 2020 to 2030. This makes it an excellent time to enter the field.

For more information about Lake City, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Generally, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Being at least 18 years old
• Passing a background check
• Completing any required entrance exams, such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs typically cover a range of courses and clinical training to prepare you for real-world nursing. Expect to take classes in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric and Geriatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Clinical Practice

These programs often last about 12-15 months, combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience.

LPN Training Programs in Lake City, Florida

Here are some local schools offering LPN programs near Lake City:

1. Florida Gateway College
   • Address: 149 SE College Place, Lake City, FL 32025
   • Program Description: Florida Gateway College offers a comprehensive Practical Nursing program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical experiences.
   • Program Link: Florida Gateway College LPN Program
2. North Florida Technical College
   • Address: 609 N Orange St, Starke, FL 32091 (approximately 30 miles from Lake City)
   • Program Description: This program provides students with the skills needed to succeed as LPNs, including coursework in medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and more. Clinical rotations are a key component.
   • Program Link: North Florida Technical College LPN Program
3. Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center
   • Address: 415 SW Pinewood Dr, Live Oak, FL 32064 (approximately 22 miles from Lake City)
   • Program Description: Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center offers a Practical Nursing program that focuses on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for immediate employment.
   • Program Link: Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Lake City

Lake City has several healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment. Here are some notable ones:

1. Lake City Medical Center
   • Address: 340 NW Commerce Dr, Lake City, FL 32055
   • Description: A full-service, emergency care facility offering a range of medical services, including surgical care, cardiology, and orthopedics.
   • Employment Opportunities: Lake City Medical Center Careers
2. Shands Lake Shore Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 368 NE Franklin St, Lake City, FL 32055
   • Description: This medical center provides comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation.
   • Employment Opportunities: Shands Lake Shore Careers
3. Avalon Healthcare Center
   • Address: 1270 SW Main Blvd, Lake City, FL 32025
   • Description: A skilled nursing facility offering both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care.
   • Employment Opportunities: Avalon Healthcare Center Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

In Florida, LPNs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and meet state-specific certification requirements. You’ll need to:

• Complete an accredited LPN program
• Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Lake City can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the school and program length. Financial aid options include:

• Federal student loans and grants
• Scholarships specific to nursing students
• State-funded grants and scholarships

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an LPN moving to Florida from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means you can practice in Florida without needing additional licensure, provided your original state is also an NLC member. More details can be found on the Nurse Licensure Compact website.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an LPN in Lake City, Florida, is an exciting and fulfilling journey. With the right training and support, you can make a significant impact in the healthcare field. Reach out to one of the local schools today to begin your path toward becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Which Lake City schools offer LPN programs?

Lake City 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 Florida?

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, Florida 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 Lake City 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 Florida 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.

• National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service
• American Nurses Association
  
• Licensed Practical Nurses - BLS
• AACN
• National League for Nursing
• National Student Nurses' Association - NSNA
• International Nursing Honor Society