RN Programs in Nashville, Arkansas

Get your RN degree in Nashville, Arkansas - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Nashville, Arkansas

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Nashville, Arkansas? This guide is here to help you navigate the journey from choosing a local RN program to landing your first job. Let’s dive into what it means to be an RN and how you can start your rewarding career in healthcare.

Why Become an RN in Nashville

Nashville, Arkansas, affectionately known as “The Nashville of the South,” offers a unique blend of small-town charm and community spirit. With its friendly neighborhoods and close-knit community, it’s an ideal place to start your nursing career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Arkansas is competitive, and the job outlook is promising with projected growth in the healthcare sector.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites. Typically, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
• Completion of specific entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
• Background check and immunization records

Make sure to check the specific requirements of the schools you’re interested in.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs generally include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatric and Geriatric Nursing

Clinical training will provide you with real-world experience in healthcare settings, preparing you for the challenges and rewards of nursing.

RN Training Programs in Nashville, Arkansas

While options for RN programs in Nashville may be limited, nearby schools offer excellent training opportunities. Here are three programs to consider:

1. University of Arkansas Community College at Hope-Texarkana
   • Address: 2500 South Main, Hope, AR 71801
   • RN Program Page
   • Description: Located just 30 miles from Nashville, this college offers a comprehensive RN program with competitive tuition rates and excellent faculty support.
2. Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas
   • Address: 183 College Drive, De Queen, AR 71832
   • RN Program Page
   • Description: Approximately 40 miles from Nashville, Cossatot provides a robust RN program that focuses on both academic excellence and clinical proficiency.
3. Southern Arkansas University Tech
   • Address: 6415 Spellman Road, Camden, AR 71701
   • RN Program Page
   • Description: About 60 miles away, SAU Tech offers an RN program with a strong emphasis on hands-on training and community health nursing.

RN Employment Opportunities in Nashville

Nashville has several healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment. Here are some major employers in the area:

1. Howard Memorial Hospital
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Description: Located in the heart of Nashville, Howard Memorial Hospital is a leading healthcare provider offering various nursing positions in different specialties.
2. Nashville Nursing and Rehab
   • Employment Opportunities
   • Description: This facility provides long-term care and rehabilitation services, with opportunities for RNs to work in a supportive and caring environment.

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Arkansas, you’ll need to:

• Graduate from an accredited RN program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing

Ensure you meet all state-specific requirements and maintain your certification through continuing education.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs can vary widely. On average, tuition for RN programs in Arkansas ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. Financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans, are available to help manage these costs. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Arkansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Arkansas without additional licensure. For RNs moving from non-compact states, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Registered Nurse in Nashville, Arkansas, is a fulfilling and noble pursuit. With the right education and training, you can make a significant impact on your community. Take the first step today by contacting a local school and exploring their RN program offerings.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Nashville RN Programs?

RN programs (both campus-based & online RN courses) are medical training programs offered by universities, vocational or technical schools, and community or junior colleges. Some hospitals even offer registered nursing training as an RN diploma.

How do I become an licensed RN?

Each state sets its own RN licensure requirements. In order to earn your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX® examination. The NCLEX® is a comprehensive nursing exam that can only be taken by graduates of nursing programs approved by your state's board of nursing.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No you don't need to complete LPN training before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN Associate Degree program takes 2 years. You can earn your RN Diploma in 3 years. (BSN - 4 years, RN to BSN degrees can be 2-3 years).

Are There Free Nursing Schools in Nashville?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Arkansas. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Arkansas. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.

Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in Arkansas.

RN Job Description

Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation.