RN Programs in Lihue, Hawaii
Get your RN degree in Lihue, Hawaii - online & campus-based options available.
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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Lihue, Hawaii
Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Lihue, Hawaii? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this beautiful town on the island of Kauai. Whether you’re exploring local RN programs, understanding prerequisites, or seeking employment opportunities, we’ve got you covered.
Why Become an RN in Lihue
Lihue, the county seat of Kauai County, is not just a picturesque destination but also an excellent place to start your nursing career. Lihue offers a close-knit community feel with access to natural beauty, including landmarks like Wailua Falls and Kalapaki Beach. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Hawaii is around $104,830 per year, and the job outlook for RNs is projected to grow significantly over the next decade.
For more information about Lihue, visit the official city website.
Prerequisites for RN Programs
Before enrolling 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)
- Passing scores on entrance exams (like the TEAS)
- Background checks and immunizations
Each program may have specific requirements, so it’s essential to check with the schools you’re interested in.
Typical Program Curriculum
RN programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in nursing. You can expect to take courses in:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Ethics
- Clinical Practice
Clinical training is a crucial part of the curriculum, offering hands-on experience in healthcare settings.
RN Training Programs in Lihue, Hawaii
While Lihue itself may not have a plethora of RN programs, you can find several excellent options nearby:
- University of Hawaii Kauai Community College
- Location: 3-1901 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766
- Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Description: Kauai Community College offers a comprehensive ADN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions. The program includes both coursework and clinical experience.
- Kauai Community College Nursing Program
- University of Hawaii at Manoa – School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene
- Location: 2528 McCarthy Mall, Honolulu, HI 96822 (Approximately 100 miles from Lihue)
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Description: This program offers a robust curriculum with extensive clinical practice, preparing students for advanced nursing roles and leadership positions.
- UH Manoa Nursing Program
- Hawaii Pacific University
- Location: 1 Aloha Tower Dr, Honolulu, HI 96813 (Approximately 100 miles from Lihue)
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Description: Hawaii Pacific University provides a BSN program that combines classroom instruction with real-world clinical experiences, fostering a comprehensive nursing education.
- HPU Nursing Program
RN Employment Opportunities in Lihue
Lihue has several healthcare facilities where new RNs can find employment:
- Wilcox Medical Center
- Location: 3-3420 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766
- Description: Wilcox Medical Center is the largest medical facility on Kauai, offering a wide range of services including emergency care, surgery, and maternity services.
- Wilcox Medical Center Employment Opportunities
- Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital
- Location: 4643 Waimea Canyon Dr, Waimea, HI 96796 (Approximately 20 miles from Lihue)
- Description: This hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services including emergency care, surgical services, and long-term care.
- Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital Employment Opportunities
RN Certification Requirements
To practice as an RN in Hawaii, you must:
- Graduate from an accredited nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Apply for licensure through the Hawaii Board of Nursing
For more information, visit the Hawaii Board of Nursing.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of RN programs in Lihue and surrounding areas can vary. Typically, tuition for an ADN program ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, while BSN programs can cost between $20,000 and $40,000. Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are often available to help offset these costs. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.
Licensure Reciprocity
Hawaii participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Hawaii without obtaining additional licensure. If you’re moving from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for licensure by endorsement and meet Hawaii’s specific requirements.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an RN in Lihue, Hawaii, is an exciting journey filled with opportunities. With the right education and training, you can make a significant impact on your community. Contact a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step towards your future in nursing!
Registered Nurse Degree Info
Which schools offer Lihue 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 Lihue?
The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Hawaii. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Hawaii. 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 Hawaii.
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.