RN Programs in Wilmington, California

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Wilmington, California

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Wilmington, California? This guide will walk you through the essential steps to kickstart your journey, from understanding what an RN does to finding the best local RN programs. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Wilmington

Wilmington, a vibrant neighborhood in the city of Los Angeles, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern living. Known for its proximity to the Port of Los Angeles, Wilmington is a hub for diverse communities and opportunities. For more information about Wilmington, you can visit the official Los Angeles city website.

Becoming an RN in Wilmington means you’ll be part of a growing and rewarding field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in California is around $113,240 per year, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, there are some typical prerequisites you’ll need to meet:
– A high school diploma or GED
– Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years or older)
– Completion of specific high school courses (e.g., biology, chemistry)
– Passing scores on entrance exams (such as the TEAS)
– Background checks and immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical training. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
– Core Nursing Courses: Fundamentals of Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Obstetric Nursing
– Science Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Pharmacology
– Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in hospitals and healthcare settings, supervised by experienced nurses

RN Training Programs in Wilmington, California

Here are three local schools offering RN programs near Wilmington:

1. Los Angeles Harbor College (LAHC)
   • Location: 1111 Figueroa Place, Wilmington, CA 90744
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: LAHC offers a comprehensive ADN program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
   • LAHC RN Program
2. California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH)
   • Location: 1000 E Victoria St, Carson, CA 90747 (approx. 5 miles from Wilmington)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: The BSN program at CSUDH provides a strong foundation in nursing theory and practice, with opportunities for clinical placements in a variety of healthcare settings.
   • CSUDH RN Program
3. El Camino College
   • Location: 16007 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance, CA 90506 (approx. 10 miles from Wilmington)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: El Camino College offers an ADN program that emphasizes hands-on learning and prepares students for immediate employment in the nursing field.
   • El Camino College RN Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Wilmington

Here are some major healthcare facilities in and around Wilmington where you might find employment opportunities:

1. Kaiser Permanente South Bay Medical Center
   • Location: 25825 S Vermont Ave, Harbor City, CA 90710
   • Description: A leading healthcare provider, Kaiser Permanente offers comprehensive medical services and has a robust employment program for RNs.
   • Kaiser Permanente Careers
2. Dignity Health – St. Mary Medical Center
   • Location: 1050 Linden Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813
   • Description: This hospital provides a wide range of healthcare services and is known for its commitment to the community and patient care.
   • St. Mary Medical Center Careers
3. Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center San Pedro
   • Location: 1300 W 7th St, San Pedro, CA 90732
   • Description: This facility offers a variety of medical services and is dedicated to ensuring high-quality patient care.
   • Providence Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in California, you must:
– Graduate from an accredited nursing program
– Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
– Apply for licensure through the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)
– Complete fingerprinting and background checks

For more information, visit the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs can vary widely. An ADN program at a community college may range from $5,000 to $15,000, while a BSN program at a university can cost between $20,000 and $50,000. Financial aid options include:
– Federal and state grants
– Scholarships from nursing organizations
– Student loans
– Work-study programs

Licensure Reciprocity

California participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in California without additional licensure. However, if you are moving from a non-compact state, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet California’s specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Ready to take the next step toward becoming an RN in Wilmington, California? Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and start your journey in this rewarding field. Good luck!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Wilmington 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 Wilmington?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in California. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in California. 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 California.

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.