LPN Programs in Kankakee, Illinois

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Kankakee, Illinois

If you’re considering a career in healthcare, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Kankakee, Illinois, is a fantastic option. LPNs play a vital role in patient care, working under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and doctors to provide essential nursing services. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about starting your journey to becoming an LPN in Kankakee.

Why Become an LPN in Kankakee?

Kankakee is a charming city located in northeastern Illinois, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. With a rich history, beautiful parks, and a vibrant community, Kankakee is a great place to live and work. The average salary for LPNs in Kankakee is competitive, and the job outlook is promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for LPNs is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, ensuring a stable career path.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

To enroll in an LPN program in Kankakee, you typically need:
– A high school diploma or GED
– To be at least 18 years old
– To pass an entrance exam (such as the TEAS)
– To undergo a background check and drug screening

These requirements ensure that candidates are prepared for the rigorous training and responsibilities that come with being an LPN.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs in Kankakee generally include both classroom instruction and clinical training. You can expect to cover subjects like:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Pharmacology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Medical-Surgical Nursing
– Pediatric Nursing
– Geriatric Nursing
– Mental Health Nursing

Clinical training provides hands-on experience in real healthcare settings, allowing you to apply your knowledge and develop practical skills.

LPN Training Programs in Kankakee, Illinois

Here are three local schools offering LPN programs in Kankakee:

1. Kankakee Community College
   • Address: 100 College Drive, Kankakee, IL 60901
   • Program Details: Kankakee Community College offers a comprehensive LPN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. The program includes both classroom and clinical training.
   • Program Link: Kankakee Community College LPN Program
2. Joliet Junior College
   • Address: 1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet, IL 60431 (approximately 30 miles from Kankakee)
   • Program Details: Joliet Junior College provides a well-rounded LPN program that covers essential nursing skills and knowledge. The program’s curriculum includes a mix of theoretical and practical training.
   • Program Link: Joliet Junior College LPN Program
3. Prairie State College
   • Address: 202 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights, IL 60411 (approximately 40 miles from Kankakee)
   • Program Details: Prairie State College offers an LPN program that prepares students for entry-level nursing positions. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience.
   • Program Link: Prairie State College LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Kankakee

Kankakee offers a variety of employment opportunities for LPNs. Here are some major healthcare facilities in the area:

1. Riverside Medical Center
   • Address: 350 N Wall St, Kankakee, IL 60901
   • Description: Riverside Medical Center is a full-service hospital offering a wide range of medical services. It is a significant employer of LPNs in the region.
   • Employment Opportunities: Riverside Medical Center Careers
2. AMITA Health St. Mary’s Hospital Kankakee
   • Address: 500 W Court St, Kankakee, IL 60901
   • Description: Part of the AMITA Health system, St. Mary’s Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services and employs numerous LPNs.
   • Employment Opportunities: AMITA Health Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Illinois, you must:
– Complete an accredited LPN program
– Pass the NCLEX-PN exam
– Apply for licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR)

The IDFPR oversees the licensure and regulation of LPNs in Illinois, ensuring that all practicing nurses meet the state’s standards for education and competency.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Kankakee can vary, but you can expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000 for tuition and fees. Financial aid options are available to help cover these costs, including:
– Federal Pell Grants
– Illinois Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants
– Scholarships from local organizations and schools
– Federal student loans

Be sure to contact the financial aid office at your chosen school to explore all available options.

Licensure Reciprocity

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

Get Started Today

Becoming an LPN in Kankakee, Illinois, is an excellent career choice with promising job prospects and competitive salaries. Take the first step towards your new career by reaching out to a local school today. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make a career change, the path to becoming an LPN is both rewarding and achievable. Good luck!

Which Kankakee schools offer LPN programs?

Kankakee 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 Illinois?

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, Illinois 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 Kankakee 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 Illinois 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