RN Programs in Great Bend, Kansas

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Great Bend, Kansas

Welcome to your guide on becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in Great Bend, Kansas! If you’re considering a career in nursing, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about RN programs, schools, and employment opportunities in Great Bend, KS. So, let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Great Bend

Great Bend is a charming city located in the heart of Kansas. Known for its beautiful landscapes and friendly community, it’s an ideal place to start your nursing career. According to the official city website, Great Bend offers a supportive environment for healthcare professionals.

The average salary for RNs in Kansas is around $66,560 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This makes it a stable and rewarding career choice.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

1. High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require you to have completed high school or obtained a GED.
2. Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
3. Entrance Exams: Some programs may require you to take entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
4. Background Check: A clean criminal background check is often required.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs generally include a combination of coursework and clinical training. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Pediatrics and Obstetrics
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Clinical Rotations

RN Training Programs in Great Bend, Kansas

Here are some local schools offering RN programs in or near Great Bend, KS:

1. Barton Community College
   • Address: 245 NE 30 Rd, Great Bend, KS 67530
   • Program: Barton Community College offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Link: Barton Community College Nursing Program
2. Hutchinson Community College (approximately 60 miles from Great Bend)
   • Address: 1300 N Plum St, Hutchinson, KS 67501
   • Program: They offer both an ADN and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
   • Link: Hutchinson Community College Nursing Program
3. Fort Hays State University (approximately 50 miles from Great Bend)
   • Address: 600 Park St, Hays, KS 67601
   • Program: Offers a BSN program with comprehensive coursework and clinical practice.
   • Link: Fort Hays State University Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Great Bend

Great Bend has several healthcare facilities that offer promising employment opportunities for RNs:

1. The University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend Campus
   • Address: 514 Cleveland St, Great Bend, KS 67530
   • Description: A comprehensive healthcare facility offering a range of medical services.
   • Link: KU Health System – Great Bend Employment Opportunities
2. Clara Barton Hospital
   • Address: 250 W 9th St, Hoisington, KS 67544 (about 10 miles from Great Bend)
   • Description: A community hospital known for its patient-centered care.
   • Link: Clara Barton Hospital Careers
3. Central Kansas Medical Center
   • Address: 3515 Broadway Ave, Great Bend, KS 67530
   • Description: Provides a wide range of healthcare services, including emergency care, surgery, and more.
   • Link: Central Kansas Medical Center Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in Kansas, you’ll need to meet specific certification requirements:

1. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses is a must.
2. State Licensure: Apply for licensure through the Kansas State Board of Nursing.
3. Continuing Education: Kansas requires RNs to complete continuing education units (CEUs) for license renewal.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs can vary widely. In Great Bend, you can expect to pay:

• Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): $6,000 – $15,000
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): $20,000 – $40,000

Financial aid options are available, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Check out the financial aid office at each school for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Kansas participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without needing additional licenses. For more details, visit the Kansas State Board of Nursing website.

Get Started Today

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to take the first step toward your nursing career. Contact a local school today and begin your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse in Great Bend, Kansas. The healthcare field needs compassionate and skilled professionals like you. Good luck!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Great Bend 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 Great Bend?

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

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.