LPN Programs in Chattanooga, Tennessee

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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Are you considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Chattanooga, Tennessee? This guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to start your journey towards becoming an LPN in this vibrant city. As an LPN, you’ll play a crucial role in patient care, working under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. Let’s dive into what it takes to become an LPN in Chattanooga and explore the local training programs and job opportunities available.

Why Become an LPN in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga, often called the “Scenic City,” is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Tennessee River and Lookout Mountain. It’s a great place to start your nursing career due to its growing healthcare sector and supportive community. The average salary for LPNs in Chattanooga is competitive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a median annual wage of around $48,070 for LPNs in Tennessee. The job growth for LPNs is also promising, with a projected increase of 9% from 2020 to 2030. For more detailed job outlook information, you can visit the BLS job outlook page for LPNs.

For more information about Chattanooga, visit the city’s official website.

Prerequisites for LPN Programs

Before you can enroll in an LPN program in Chattanooga, you need to meet certain prerequisites. These typically include:

• A high school diploma or GED.
• Being at least 18 years old.
• Passing an entrance exam (such as the TEAS).
• Completing a background check and drug screening.
• Basic CPR certification might also be required.

Typical Program Curriculum

LPN programs generally take about 12-18 months to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical practice. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Geriatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing

Clinical training is a vital part of the curriculum, providing hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.

LPN Training Programs in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Here are some local schools offering LPN programs in Chattanooga:

1. Chattanooga State Community College
   • Address: 4501 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406
   • Program Description: Chattanooga State offers a Practical Nursing program that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. The program includes classroom instruction and clinical practice in various healthcare settings.
   • Program Link: Chattanooga State Community College LPN Program
2. Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Chattanooga
   • Address: 4501 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406
   • Program Description: TCAT-Chattanooga provides a comprehensive LPN program focusing on practical nursing skills, patient care, and clinical experience. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam.
   • Program Link: TCAT Chattanooga LPN Program
3. Cleveland State Community College
   • Address: 3535 Adkisson Dr NW, Cleveland, TN 37312 (Approximately 32 miles from Chattanooga)
   • Program Description: Cleveland State offers a Practical Nursing program with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and patient care. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam.
   • Program Link: Cleveland State Community College LPN Program

LPN Employment Opportunities in Chattanooga

Chattanooga boasts several major healthcare facilities where LPNs can find employment. Here are a few:

1. Erlanger Health System
   • Website: Erlanger Health System Careers
   • Description: Erlanger is one of the largest public health systems in Tennessee, offering a wide range of services and employing numerous LPNs. It’s located in downtown Chattanooga.
2. CHI Memorial Hospital
   • Website: CHI Memorial Careers
   • Description: CHI Memorial is known for its excellent patient care and supportive work environment. It’s located in the Glenwood neighborhood.
3. Parkridge Health System
   • Website: Parkridge Health System Careers
   • Description: Parkridge Health System offers comprehensive healthcare services and has multiple facilities throughout Chattanooga, including Parkridge East Hospital in the East Ridge area.

LPN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed LPN in Tennessee, you must:

1. Graduate from an approved LPN program.
2. Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
3. Apply for licensure through the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
4. Complete any required continuing education units (CEUs) for license renewal.

For more information, visit the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of LPN programs in Chattanooga can vary, but you can expect to pay between $5,000 and $15,000 for tuition and fees. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, loans, and scholarships. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an LPN moving to Tennessee from another state, you’ll be pleased to know that Tennessee participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means you can practice in Tennessee without obtaining additional licensure, provided your original license is in good standing. For more details, visit the Nurse Licensure Compact.

Get Started Today

Becoming an LPN in Chattanooga is a rewarding career path with plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement. Take the first step today by researching local LPN programs and reaching out to schools for more information. Your future in healthcare starts now!

Which Chattanooga schools offer LPN programs?

Chattanooga 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 Tennessee?

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, Tennessee 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 Chattanooga 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 Tennessee 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