RN Programs in West Palm Beach, Florida

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in West Palm Beach, Florida

Thinking about becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in West Palm Beach, Florida? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN does to finding local RN programs and employment opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your nursing career, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a vibrant city known for its stunning waterfront views, lively cultural scene, and beautiful neighborhoods like Flamingo Park and El Cid. According to the City of West Palm Beach official website, the community offers a high quality of life, making it an excellent place to start or advance your nursing career.

The average salary for RNs in West Palm Beach is competitive, with a median wage of around $75,000 per year. The job outlook for RNs is also promising, with projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029. For more detailed statistics, check out the RN job outlook page on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age of 18
• Completion of prerequisite courses such as biology, chemistry, and math
• Passing scores on entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• Background checks and immunizations

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to prepare you for all aspects of nursing. You can expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology
• Nursing Ethics
• Patient Care Techniques
• Clinical Nursing Practice

Most programs also include clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, giving you hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced nurses.

RN Training Programs in West Palm Beach, Florida

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in West Palm Beach:

1. Palm Beach State College
   • Address: 4200 Congress Ave, Lake Worth, FL 33461
   • Program Details: Palm Beach State College offers an Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree in Nursing. The program includes coursework and clinical training.
   • Palm Beach State College RN Program
2. Keiser University
   • Address: 2085 Vista Pkwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33411
   • Program Details: Keiser University offers both Associate and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees. The BSN program is designed for those who wish to advance to higher levels of nursing practice.
   • Keiser University RN Program
3. South University, West Palm Beach
   • Address: 9801 Belvedere Rd, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411
   • Program Details: South University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • South University RN Program

RN Employment Opportunities in West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is home to several major healthcare facilities where you can find employment as an RN. Here are some of the top options:

1. St. Mary’s Medical Center
   • Address: 901 45th St, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
   • Details: St. Mary’s Medical Center is a leading hospital known for its comprehensive healthcare services, including a Level I Trauma Center.
   • St. Mary’s Medical Center Employment Opportunities
2. Good Samaritan Medical Center
   • Address: 1309 N Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
   • Details: Good Samaritan Medical Center offers a range of medical services and is recognized for its cardiac care and surgical services.
   • Good Samaritan Medical Center Employment Opportunities
3. JFK Medical Center – North Campus
   • Address: 2201 45th St, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
   • Details: JFK Medical Center’s North Campus is a full-service medical center providing a range of healthcare services, including emergency care and inpatient rehabilitation.
   • JFK Medical Center Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

To become a licensed RN in Florida, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and meet other state-specific requirements. These requirements include:

• Completing an accredited nursing program
• Passing a criminal background check
• Submitting an application to the Florida Board of Nursing

For more information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in West Palm Beach can vary widely. On average, you can expect to pay between $5,000 and $20,000 per year, depending on the program and institution. Financial aid options are available, including:

• Federal Pell Grants
• Scholarships from local healthcare organizations
• Student loans
• Work-study programs

Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific options.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you’re an RN moving to Florida from another state, you’ll be glad to know that Florida is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that if you hold an active RN license in another NLC state, you can practice in Florida without needing additional licensure. For more details, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Get Started Today

Ready to take the next step in your nursing career? Contact one of the local schools mentioned above to learn more about their programs and start your journey to becoming an RN in West Palm Beach today. Your future in healthcare awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach?

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.