LPN Schools
LPN Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida
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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in St. Petersburg, Florida
If you’re considering a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in St. Petersburg, Florida, is a fantastic choice. As an LPN, you’ll play a crucial role in patient care, working closely with registered nurses and doctors to provide essential medical services. This guide will walk you through the steps to become an LPN, from understanding program prerequisites to exploring local training options and employment opportunities.
Why Become an LPN in St. Petersburg?
St. Petersburg, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and sunny weather. It’s a great place to live and work, especially in the healthcare field. The average salary for LPNs in St. Petersburg is competitive, and the demand for healthcare professionals is growing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for LPNs is expected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
Prerequisites for LPN Programs
Before enrolling in an LPN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:
– A high school diploma or GED.
– Minimum age of 18.
– Completion of any required entrance exams (such as the TEAS test).
– Background check and drug screening.
Typical Program Curriculum
LPN programs generally include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Pharmacology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Medical-Surgical Nursing
– Pediatric Nursing
– Geriatric Nursing
– Clinical Practicum
LPN Training Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida
Here are three schools in St. Petersburg offering LPN programs:
- Pinellas Technical College – St. Petersburg Campus
- Address: 901 34th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711
- Program Description: Pinellas Technical College offers a comprehensive LPN program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. The program is designed to be completed in about one year.
- Website: Pinellas Technical College LPN Program
- St. Petersburg College
- Address: 6605 5th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710
- Program Description: St. Petersburg College offers an LPN to RN transition program which can start with an LPN certificate. The program includes a blend of coursework and clinical experience, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
- Website: St. Petersburg College LPN Program
- Galen College of Nursing – St. Petersburg Campus
- Address: 10200 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33716
- Program Description: Galen College of Nursing offers a practical nursing diploma program that prepares students for entry-level nursing positions. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and clinical practice.
- Website: Galen College of Nursing LPN Program
LPN Employment Opportunities in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is home to several major healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment:
- Bayfront Health St. Petersburg
- Address: 701 6th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Description: Bayfront Health St. Petersburg is a leading hospital offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical treatments.
- Website: Bayfront Health Careers
- St. Anthony’s Hospital
- Address: 1200 7th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
- Description: St. Anthony’s Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. It’s known for its patient-centered care and advanced medical technology.
- Website: St. Anthony’s Hospital Careers
- Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
- Address: 501 6th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
- Description: This renowned children’s hospital offers specialized pediatric care and is part of the Johns Hopkins Health System.
- Website: Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Careers
LPN Certification Requirements
To become an LPN in Florida, you must:
– Complete an approved nursing program.
– Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
– Apply for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing.
– Complete a criminal background check.
For more information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of LPN programs in St. Petersburg can vary, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.
Licensure Reciprocity
Florida participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Florida without obtaining additional licensure. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you may need to meet additional requirements. For more details, visit the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an LPN in St. Petersburg, Florida, is a fulfilling and practical choice. With numerous educational programs and employment opportunities, the city offers a supportive environment for aspiring nurses. Take the first step towards your new career by reaching out to one of the local schools today.
Which St. Petersburg schools offer LPN programs?
St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg 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.