LPN Programs in New Castle, Pennsylvania

Get your LPN license in New Castle, Pennsylvania - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in New Castle, Pennsylvania

If you’re considering a career in healthcare and live in New Castle, Pennsylvania, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) might be the perfect path for you. LPNs play a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing essential care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming an LPN in New Castle, including local LPN programs, prerequisites, and employment opportunities.

Why Become an LPN in New Castle?

New Castle, a charming city in Lawrence County, offers a welcoming community and a supportive environment for aspiring healthcare professionals. Known for its rich history and vibrant downtown area, New Castle is an ideal place to start your nursing career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for LPNs in Pennsylvania is approximately $50,000, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before enrolling in an LPN program in New Castle, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require proof of high school completion.
Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
Background Check: A clean criminal background check is often necessary.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. Courses you can expect to take include:

Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body and its functions.
Pharmacology: Learning about medications and their effects.
Nursing Fundamentals: Basic nursing skills and patient care techniques.
Clinical Practicum: Real-world experience in healthcare settings.

LPN Training Programs in New Castle, Pennsylvania

Here are some local schools offering LPN programs in New Castle:

Lawrence County Career and Technical Center
- Address: 750 Phelps Way, New Castle, PA 16101
- Program Description: Offers a comprehensive LPN program focusing on practical nursing skills and clinical experience.
- Website: Lawrence County Career and Technical Center
Jameson School of Nursing
- Address: 1211 Wilmington Ave, New Castle, PA 16105
- Program Description: Provides a rigorous LPN program with a strong emphasis on patient care and medical knowledge.
- Website: Jameson School of Nursing

If no LPN programs are available directly in New Castle, consider nearby options in cities such as Youngstown, OH (approximately 20 miles away) or Pittsburgh, PA (about 50 miles away).

LPN Employment Opportunities in New Castle

New Castle boasts several major healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment:

UPMC Jameson
- Address: 1211 Wilmington Ave, New Castle, PA 16105
- Website: UPMC Jameson
- Description: A leading hospital offering a wide range of medical services and employment opportunities for LPNs.
Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare
- Address: 238 S Market St, New Wilmington, PA 16142
- Website: Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare
- Description: A senior care facility providing long-term care and rehabilitation services.

LPN Certification Requirements

To become an LPN in Pennsylvania, you must:

Complete an Accredited Program: Graduate from a state-approved LPN program.
Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam: Successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
State Licensure: Apply for licensure with the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

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

Licensure Reciprocity

Pennsylvania offers licensure reciprocity for LPNs moving from other states. If you’re already an LPN in another state, you may apply for licensure by endorsement through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Additional requirements may include verification of your current license and completion of continuing education credits.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse in New Castle, Pennsylvania, is a rewarding and achievable goal. With the right education and training, you can make a significant impact on your community’s healthcare. Contact a local school today to learn more about their LPN programs and take the first step toward your new career.

Which New Castle schools offer LPN programs?

New Castle 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 Pennsylvania?

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, Pennsylvania 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 New Castle 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 Pennsylvania 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.