LPN Programs in Lafayette, Louisiana

Get your LPN license in Lafayette, Louisiana - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Lafayette, Louisiana

If you’re thinking about becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Lafayette, Louisiana, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your career as an LPN in this vibrant city. But first, what exactly does an LPN do? Licensed Practical Nurses provide essential care to patients, working under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and doctors. They perform tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with daily activities.

Why Become an LPN in Lafayette?

Lafayette, known as the “Hub City” of Louisiana, is a fantastic place to start your nursing career. This city is rich in culture and history, and it’s home to beautiful neighborhoods like River Ranch and Freetown-Port Rico. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for LPNs in Louisiana is around $46,000 per year, with projected job growth of 9% through 2030. You can learn more about the job outlook for LPNs here.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before you can enroll in an LPN program, there are a few prerequisites you’ll need to meet. Typically, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED. Most programs also require you to be at least 18 years old and pass a background check. Some schools may also ask you to take entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs usually take about 12-18 months to complete and cover a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. You’ll study subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing. Clinical training will give you hands-on experience in real healthcare settings, helping you apply what you’ve learned in the classroom.

LPN Training Programs in Lafayette, Louisiana

If you’re ready to start your journey, here are some local schools in Lafayette offering LPN programs:

1. South Louisiana Community College
   • Address: 1101 Bertrand Dr, Lafayette, LA 70506
   • Program Description: The Practical Nursing program at SLCC prepares students for a rewarding career in nursing through comprehensive coursework and clinical practice.
   • Link: SLCC LPN Program
2. Unitech Training Academy
   • Address: 3253 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy, Lafayette, LA 70506
   • Program Description: Unitech’s LPN program offers a blend of theoretical and practical training to ensure students are well-prepared for the NCLEX-PN exam.
   • Link: Unitech LPN Program
3. Acadiana Area Career College
   • Address: 505 Loire Ave, Lafayette, LA 70507
   • Program Description: Acadiana Area Career College provides a focused and accelerated LPN program designed to get students into the workforce quickly.
   • Link: Acadiana Area Career College LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Lafayette

Lafayette boasts several major healthcare facilities where you might find employment after earning your LPN certification:

1. Lafayette General Medical Center
   • Description: Located in the heart of Lafayette, this hospital offers a wide range of medical services and employs many LPNs.
   • Link: Lafayette General Medical Center Careers
2. Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center
   • Description: A prominent healthcare facility providing comprehensive care and numerous job opportunities for LPNs.
   • Link: Our Lady of Lourdes Careers
3. University Hospital & Clinics
   • Description: This teaching hospital is affiliated with LSU Health and offers various opportunities for LPNs.
   • Link: University Hospital & Clinics Careers

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Louisiana, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam after completing an accredited LPN program. The Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE) oversees the licensing process. You can find more information on their official website.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Lafayette can vary, but you can expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000 for tuition and fees. Financial aid options are available, including federal student loans, grants, and scholarships. Check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for more details.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re already an LPN in another state and you’re moving to Louisiana, you’ll be pleased to know that Louisiana participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means your license can be transferred relatively easily, though you may need to meet some additional state-specific requirements. More information can be found on the NLC website.

Get Started Today

Becoming an LPN in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a fantastic career choice with plenty of opportunities. Take the first step today by contacting one of the schools listed above and starting your journey towards a rewarding career in healthcare.

Which Lafayette schools offer LPN programs?

Lafayette 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 Louisiana?

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, Louisiana 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 Lafayette 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 Louisiana 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