LPN Programs in Ottumwa, Iowa

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Ottumwa, Iowa

Are you considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Ottumwa, Iowa? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an LPN in this vibrant city. Let’s start by understanding what an LPN does. Licensed Practical Nurses provide essential care to patients, working under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and doctors. They monitor patient health, administer basic nursing care, and provide comfort to patients and their families.

Why Become an LPN in Ottumwa

Ottumwa, located in southeastern Iowa, is known for its beautiful parks and historic downtown area. The city offers a welcoming community and a lower cost of living compared to larger cities, making it an attractive place to start your nursing career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for LPNs in Iowa is around $48,070, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030. You can find more information about the job outlook for LPNs on the BLS website.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program in Ottumwa, you’ll need to meet some common prerequisites:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• Background check and drug screening

These requirements ensure that candidates are prepared for the rigors of the LPN curriculum and the responsibilities of the profession.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:

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

Clinical rotations provide real-world experience in various healthcare settings, helping you apply what you’ve learned in the classroom.

LPN Training Programs in Ottumwa, Iowa

There are several reputable schools in and around Ottumwa offering LPN programs:

1. Indian Hills Community College
   • Address: 525 Grandview Ave, Ottumwa, IA 52501
   • Program Overview: Indian Hills Community College offers a comprehensive LPN program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical training. The program is designed to be completed in one year.
   • Cost: Approximately $7,000 for in-state students.
   • LPN Program Page
2. Southeastern Community College (Located about 60 miles from Ottumwa)
   • Address: 1500 West Agency Road, West Burlington, IA 52655
   • Program Overview: SCC offers an LPN program focused on providing students with the skills necessary to excel in various healthcare settings. The program includes extensive clinical experiences.
   • Cost: Approximately $6,000 for in-state students.
   • LPN Program Page
3. Des Moines Area Community College (Located about 80 miles from Ottumwa)
   • Address: 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny, IA 50023
   • Program Overview: DMACC’s LPN program is known for its rigorous curriculum and high NCLEX-PN pass rates. The program can be completed in about one year.
   • Cost: Approximately $6,500 for in-state students.
   • LPN Program Page

LPN Employment Opportunities in Ottumwa

Ottumwa has several healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment:

1. Ottumwa Regional Health Center
   • Address: 1001 Pennsylvania Ave, Ottumwa, IA 52501
   • Description: A full-service hospital offering a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and maternity services.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Good Samaritan Society – Ottumwa
   • Address: 2035 Chester Ave, Ottumwa, IA 52501
   • Description: A senior living community that provides long-term care, rehabilitation services, and assisted living.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. River Hills Community Health Center
   • Address: 201 S Market St, Ottumwa, IA 52501
   • Description: A community health center offering primary care, dental services, and behavioral health services.
   • Employment Opportunities

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Iowa, you must:

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

For more details, visit the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Ottumwa typically ranges from $6,000 to $7,000. Financial aid options such as federal grants, scholarships, and student loans are available to help cover these costs. Check with the financial aid office of the school you plan to attend for specific information on available resources.

Licensure Reciprocity

Iowa participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows LPNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Iowa without obtaining additional licensure. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an LPN in Ottumwa, Iowa, offers a fulfilling opportunity to make a difference in your community. With the right education and training, you can achieve your goal of becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. Contact one of the local schools today to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward your new career.

Which Ottumwa schools offer LPN programs?

Ottumwa 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 Ottumwa 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