LPN Schools
LPN Programs in Longview, Washington
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Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Longview, Washington
Are you considering a rewarding career in healthcare? Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Longview, Washington, might be the perfect path for you. LPNs play a critical role in healthcare, providing essential patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your journey to becoming an LPN in Longview.
Why Become an LPN in Longview?
Longview, located in Cowlitz County, is a charming city known for its scenic beauty and welcoming community. With the Columbia River and Lake Sacajawea as backdrops, Longview offers a peaceful environment perfect for both studying and working. The average salary for an LPN in Washington State is approximately $54,000 per year, with the demand for LPNs projected to grow by 9% over the next decade. You can read more about the job outlook for LPNs on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Prerequisites for LPN Programs
To enroll in an LPN program in Longview, you typically need:
– A high school diploma or GED.
– To be at least 18 years old.
– To pass an entrance exam (like the TEAS test).
– A clean background check.
Meeting these prerequisites ensures you’re prepared for the rigors of LPN training.
Typical Program Curriculum
LPN programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training. You can expect courses in:
– Anatomy and Physiology
– Pharmacology
– Nursing Fundamentals
– Medical-Surgical Nursing
– Pediatric Nursing
– Geriatric Nursing
– Mental Health Nursing
Clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities are integral, providing real-world experience.
LPN Training Programs in Longview, Washington
Here are some local schools offering LPN programs in or near Longview:
- Lower Columbia College
- Address: 1600 Maple St, Longview, WA 98632
- Program Link: Lower Columbia College LPN Program
- Description: Located in the heart of Longview, Lower Columbia College offers a comprehensive LPN program with an emphasis on both academic and practical skills. The program includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical practice. Tuition costs vary, so check their website for the latest information.
- Clark College
- Address: 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA 98663 (Approximately 45 miles from Longview)
- Program Link: Clark College LPN Program
- Description: Although a bit of a drive from Longview, Clark College in Vancouver offers a robust LPN program known for its strong faculty and excellent clinical rotation opportunities.
- Centralia College
- Address: 600 Centralia College Blvd, Centralia, WA 98531 (Approximately 52 miles from Longview)
- Program Link: Centralia College LPN Program
- Description: Centralia College provides a thorough LPN program that prepares students for immediate entry into the healthcare field. It’s known for its supportive learning environment and comprehensive curriculum.
LPN Employment Opportunities in Longview
Longview boasts several major healthcare facilities where LPNs can find rewarding employment. Here are a few:
- PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center
- Address: 1615 Delaware St, Longview, WA 98632
- Employment Opportunities: PeaceHealth Careers
- Description: As a leading healthcare provider in Longview, PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center offers a range of employment opportunities for LPNs, including roles in various departments and specialties.
- Community Home Health & Hospice
- Address: 1035 11th Ave, Longview, WA 98632
- Employment Opportunities: Community Home Health & Hospice Careers
- Description: This facility offers home health and hospice care, providing LPNs with the chance to work in a compassionate and patient-focused environment.
- Kaiser Permanente Longview-Kelso Medical Office
- Address: 1230 7th Ave, Longview, WA 98632
- Employment Opportunities: Kaiser Permanente Careers
- Description: Part of the renowned Kaiser Permanente network, this medical office offers diverse roles for LPNs in outpatient care.
LPN Certification Requirements
In Washington State, LPNs must:
– Complete an accredited LPN program.
– Pass the NCLEX-PN exam.
– Apply for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health.
Additionally, maintaining certification requires ongoing continuing education.
Cost and Financial Aid
LPN program costs in Longview can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the institution and program length. Financial aid options include:
– Federal Pell Grants
– Scholarships
– Student loans
– Work-study programs
Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.
Licensure Reciprocity
Washington State participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Washington without additional licensure. For non-compact states, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Washington State Department of Health.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an LPN in Longview, Washington, is a commendable choice. With the right education and training, you’ll be well-prepared to join this vital field. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your new career!
Which Longview schools offer LPN programs?
Longview 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 Washington?
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, Washington 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 Longview 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 Washington 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.