LPN Programs in Council Bluffs, Iowa

Get your LPN license in Council Bluffs, Iowa - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Council Bluffs, Iowa

Are you considering a fulfilling career in healthcare? Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Council Bluffs, Iowa, might be the perfect path for you! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your journey to becoming an LPN, from understanding what LPNs do to finding the best local training programs.

Why Become an LPN in Council Bluffs?

Council Bluffs, located along the Missouri River, is a vibrant community with a rich history and close proximity to Omaha, Nebraska. With a variety of neighborhoods and landmarks like the Union Pacific Railroad Museum and the historic Squirrel Cage Jail, Council Bluffs is a great place to live and work. The average salary for an LPN in Iowa is around $47,000 per year, with promising job growth due to an aging population and increasing healthcare needs. For more detailed information on job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics LPN page.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program, it’s important to meet certain prerequisites. Typically, you will need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• To be at least 18 years old
• To pass a background check
• To complete any required entrance exams

These requirements ensure that you are prepared for the rigors of an LPN training program and the responsibilities of the role.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs generally include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. You can expect courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Geriatric Nursing

Clinical rotations are a crucial part of the curriculum, providing real-world experience in various healthcare settings.

LPN Training Programs in Council Bluffs, Iowa

Here are three local schools offering LPN programs in Council Bluffs:

1. Iowa Western Community College
   • Address: 2700 College Rd, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
   • Program Description: Iowa Western Community College offers a comprehensive LPN program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. The program is designed to be completed in about one year.
   • Website: Iowa Western Community College LPN Program
2. Metropolitan Community College (Nebraska)
   • Address: 5300 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111 (approximately 10 miles from Council Bluffs)
   • Program Description: Although located in Omaha, Metropolitan Community College provides an excellent LPN program with flexible scheduling options and extensive clinical rotations.
   • Website: Metropolitan Community College LPN Program
3. Nebraska Methodist College
   • Address: 720 N 87th St, Omaha, NE 68114 (approximately 12 miles from Council Bluffs)
   • Program Description: Nebraska Methodist College offers a robust LPN program with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty.
   • Website: Nebraska Methodist College LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Council Bluffs

Several major healthcare facilities in Council Bluffs provide employment opportunities for LPNs:

1. CHI Health Mercy Council Bluffs
   • Address: 800 Mercy Dr, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
   • Description: This full-service hospital offers a wide range of healthcare services and frequently hires LPNs for various departments.
   • Website: CHI Health Mercy Council Bluffs Employment
2. Jennie Edmundson Hospital
   • Address: 933 E Pierce St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
   • Description: Jennie Edmundson Hospital is another key employer in the area, providing comprehensive medical services and career opportunities for LPNs.
   • Website: Jennie Edmundson Hospital Employment
3. Midlands Living Center
   • Address: 2452 N Broadway, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
   • Description: Specializing in long-term care, Midlands Living Center often seeks LPNs to support their resident care teams.
   • Website: Midlands Living Center Employment

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Iowa, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) after completing an accredited LPN program. Additionally, you will need to apply for licensure through the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Council Bluffs varies, typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the school and program length. 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

If you are an LPN moving to Iowa from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that Iowa participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that if you hold a multistate license from another NLC state, you can practice in Iowa without obtaining additional licensure. For more details, visit the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to become an LPN in Council Bluffs, Iowa, it’s time to take the next step. Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their programs and start your journey towards a rewarding career in healthcare today!

Which Council Bluffs schools offer LPN programs?

Council Bluffs 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 Iowa?

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, Iowa 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 Council Bluffs 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 Iowa 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