LPN Programs in Live Oak, Florida

Get your LPN license in Live Oak, Florida - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Live Oak, Florida

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Live Oak, Florida? This guide will walk you through the steps to become an LPN, from understanding what an LPN does to finding the right training program in Live Oak. An LPN, also known as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in some states, provides essential nursing care under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and doctors. Let’s dive into the journey of becoming an LPN in Live Oak.

Why Become an LPN in Live Oak

Live Oak, located in Suwannee County, Florida, is a charming city known for its friendly community and beautiful natural surroundings. Live Oak’s official city website provides a wealth of information about this lovely area.

Becoming an LPN in Live Oak is a fantastic opportunity, especially given the growing demand for healthcare professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for LPNs in Florida is approximately $48,500, with a projected job growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030. This growth is driven by an aging population and an increased need for healthcare services.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program in Live Oak, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require proof of high school completion.
• Minimum Age: Generally, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require you to take entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Check: A clean criminal background check is often required as part of the admissions process.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs typically cover a broad range of subjects to prepare you for your nursing career. Here’s what you can expect:

• Basic Nursing Skills: Training in essential nursing tasks and patient care.
• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body and its functions.
• Pharmacology: Learning about medications and their administration.
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in a healthcare setting, supervised by experienced professionals.
• Patient Care: Courses focused on caring for different patient populations, including the elderly and children.

LPN Training Programs in Live Oak, Florida

Here are three local schools offering LPN programs in or near Live Oak:

1. Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center
   • Address: 415 Pinewood Dr SW, Live Oak, FL 32064
   • Program: Offers a comprehensive LPN program with a mix of classroom instruction and clinical practice.
   • Program Information
2. North Florida College
   • Address: 325 NW Turner Davis Dr, Madison, FL 32340 (Approximately 30 miles from Live Oak)
   • Program: Known for its strong healthcare programs, including an LPN course that emphasizes hands-on learning.
   • Program Information
3. Florida Gateway College
   • Address: 149 SE College Pl, Lake City, FL 32025 (Approximately 25 miles from Live Oak)
   • Program: Offers a well-rounded LPN program with a focus on preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
   • Program Information

LPN Employment Opportunities in Live Oak

Several healthcare facilities in Live Oak offer employment opportunities for LPNs:

1. Shands Live Oak Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 1100 SW 11th St, Live Oak, FL 32064
   • Description: A full-service hospital providing a range of medical services.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Suwannee Health and Rehabilitation Center
   • Address: 1620 Helvenston St SE, Live Oak, FL 32064
   • Description: A facility specializing in rehabilitation and long-term care.
   • Employment Opportunities

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Florida, you must meet the following certification requirements:

• Complete an Approved LPN Program: Ensure your program is accredited by the Florida Board of Nursing.
• Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam: The National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
• Background Check: A comprehensive criminal background check is required.
• Apply for Licensure: Submit your application through the Florida Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Live Oak can vary, but you can expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000 for tuition and fees. Financial aid options include:

• Federal Student Aid: Fill out the FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants and loans.
• Scholarships: Look for scholarships specifically for nursing students.
• State Grants: Florida offers various grants for residents pursuing healthcare careers.

Licensure Reciprocity

Florida participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs licensed in other participating states to practice in Florida without additional licensure. For non-compact states, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Florida Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an LPN in Live Oak, Florida, is a fulfilling and practical choice. With a growing demand for healthcare professionals, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a local school today to learn more about their LPN programs and take the first step towards a rewarding nursing career.

Which Live Oak schools offer LPN programs?

Live Oak 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 Live Oak 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