RN Programs in Lake City, Florida

Get your RN degree in Lake City, Florida - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Lake City, Florida

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Lake City, Florida? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this vibrant city. From choosing a local RN program to understanding the prerequisites and certification requirements, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Lake City, Florida

Lake City, known as the “Gateway to Florida,” offers a unique blend of small-town charm and natural beauty. With its proximity to the Ichetucknee Springs State Park and the Osceola National Forest, Lake City provides a serene environment that’s perfect for studying and working in healthcare. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Registered Nurses is $75,330, with a projected job growth of 9% from 2020 to 2030. This makes it an excellent time to pursue a career as an RN in Lake City.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some basic prerequisites:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of prerequisite courses in subjects like biology and chemistry
• Passing scores on entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs in Lake City typically 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
• Pediatrics and Obstetrics

Clinical rotations are a crucial part of the curriculum, providing real-world experience in various healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in Lake City, Florida

Here are some local schools offering RN programs in Lake City:

1. Florida Gateway College
   • Address: 149 SE College Place, Lake City, FL 32025
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Florida Gateway College offers a comprehensive ADN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences.
   • Link: Florida Gateway College Nursing Program
2. Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center
   • Address: 415 SW Pinewood Dr, Live Oak, FL 32064
   • Program: Practical Nursing to RN Bridge Program
   • Description: This program is designed for LPNs looking to advance their careers to RNs. It combines online coursework with in-person clinical rotations.
   • Link: Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center
3. Santa Fe College
   • Address: 3000 NW 83 St, Gainesville, FL 32606 (Approx. 40 miles from Lake City)
   • Program: Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN)
   • Description: Santa Fe College offers an ASN program that provides a strong foundation in nursing theory and practice, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Link: Santa Fe College Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Lake City

Several healthcare facilities in Lake City offer employment opportunities for RNs:

1. Lake City Medical Center
   • Address: 340 NW Commerce Dr, Lake City, FL 32055
   • Description: A full-service, acute care hospital providing a wide range of healthcare services. Known for its friendly and supportive work environment.
   • Link: Lake City Medical Center Careers
2. Shands Lake Shore Regional Medical Center
   • Address: 368 NE Franklin St, Lake City, FL 32055
   • Description: This facility offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized nursing units.
   • Link: Shands Lake Shore Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Florida, you must:

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing
• Complete a background check and fingerprinting

For more information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Lake City can vary, but you can expect to pay between $6,000 and $20,000 for tuition and fees. Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for more details.

Licensure Reciprocity

Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which means that RNs licensed in other NLC states can practice in Florida without obtaining additional licenses. If you’re moving from a non-NLC state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the Florida Board of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Becoming an RN in Lake City, Florida, is a rewarding journey that offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Take the first step by contacting a local school today and starting your path toward a fulfilling career in nursing. Your future as a Registered Nurse awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Lake City 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 Lake City?

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

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.