LPN Programs in Mason City, Iowa

Get your LPN license in Mason City, Iowa - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Mason City, Iowa

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Mason City, Iowa? This guide will walk you through the steps to become an LPN, from choosing the right training program to meeting certification requirements. An LPN is a vital member of the healthcare team, providing essential care to patients under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and doctors. Let’s explore the opportunities available for aspiring LPNs in Mason City.

Why Become an LPN in Mason City

Mason City, known for its rich musical heritage and vibrant community, is a great place to start your career as an LPN. With landmarks like the Music Man Square and the Historic Park Inn Hotel, the city offers a blend of cultural and professional growth opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for LPNs in Iowa is around $47,000 per year, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030. For more information about Mason City, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

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

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18 years
• Passing scores on entrance exams (like the TEAS)
• Background checks and drug screenings

These requirements ensure that all candidates are prepared for the rigorous training and responsibilities of an LPN.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs usually 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
• Pediatrics and Geriatrics

Clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities provide hands-on experience, which is crucial for developing practical nursing skills.

LPN Training Programs in Mason City, Iowa

Here are three local schools offering LPN programs in Mason City:

1. North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC)
   • Location: 500 College Dr, Mason City, IA 50401
   • Program: NIACC offers a comprehensive LPN program that combines classroom learning with clinical practice. The program covers essential nursing skills and prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
   • NIACC LPN Program
2. Kaplan University – Mason City Campus
   • Location: 2570 4th St SW, Mason City, IA 50401
   • Program: Kaplan University provides an LPN program focused on practical nursing skills, patient care, and ethical practices. The program includes extensive clinical experiences in local healthcare settings.
   • Kaplan University LPN Program
3. Mercy College of Health Sciences (Closest Alternative)
   • Location: 928 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 (approximately 100 miles from Mason City)
   • Program: Mercy College offers a well-regarded LPN program that emphasizes hands-on training and prepares students for immediate employment in the healthcare sector.
   • Mercy College LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Mason City

Several healthcare facilities in Mason City offer employment opportunities for LPNs:

1. MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
   • Location: 1000 4th St SW, Mason City, IA 50401
   • Description: MercyOne is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of services. Their employment opportunities include various nursing roles.
   • MercyOne Careers
2. Mason City Clinic
   • Location: 250 S Crescent Dr, Mason City, IA 50401
   • Description: Mason City Clinic provides specialized outpatient services. They frequently seek LPNs to support their clinical teams.
   • Mason City Clinic Careers
3. Good Shepherd Health Center
   • Location: 302 2nd St NE, Mason City, IA 50401
   • Description: This long-term care facility offers employment for LPNs in various capacities, including direct patient care and administrative roles.
   • Good Shepherd Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

To practice as an LPN in Iowa, you must pass the NCLEX-PN exam and meet state-specific requirements. The Iowa Board of Nursing regulates licensure and ensures that all LPNs meet the necessary standards. For more information, visit the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Mason City can vary, typically ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. Financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans, are available to help offset these costs. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Iowa participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licensure. If you are moving to Iowa from another NLC state, you can apply for a multistate license through the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an LPN in Mason City, Iowa, is a fulfilling and promising choice. Reach out to local schools to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward your new career in healthcare today!

Which Mason City schools offer LPN programs?

Mason 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 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 Mason 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 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