RN Programs in Smithfield, North Carolina

Get your RN degree in Smithfield, North Carolina - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Smithfield, North Carolina

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Smithfield, North Carolina? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what an RN does to exploring local RN programs and employment opportunities. Let’s dive in!

Why Become an RN in Smithfield

Smithfield, located in the heart of North Carolina, is a charming town known for its historic downtown and welcoming community. With a growing healthcare sector, Smithfield is an excellent place to start your nursing career. The average salary for an RN in North Carolina is around $68,000 per year, with a promising job growth rate of 7% over the next decade. For more details on job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more information about Smithfield, check out the official town website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• A high school diploma or GED
• Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
• Passing scores on entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• Background checks and immunization records

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically cover a wide range of courses and clinical training, including:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Adult and Pediatric Nursing
• Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings

RN Training Programs in Smithfield, North Carolina

Smithfield offers several options for aspiring RNs. Here are three local schools with RN programs:

1. Johnston Community College
   • Address: 245 College Rd, Smithfield, NC 27577
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Johnston Community College offers a comprehensive ADN program that combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and a successful nursing career.
   • Program Page
2. Wayne Community College (Located in Goldsboro, approximately 20 miles from Smithfield)
   • Address: 3000 Wayne Memorial Dr, Goldsboro, NC 27534
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Wayne Community College provides a robust ADN program with a focus on patient-centered care and clinical competency. The program includes both theoretical coursework and practical training in local healthcare facilities.
   • Program Page
3. Wake Technical Community College (Located in Raleigh, approximately 30 miles from Smithfield)
   • Address: 9101 Fayetteville Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Wake Tech offers a highly regarded ADN program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions. The curriculum includes a mix of classroom instruction and clinical practice.
   • Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Smithfield

Smithfield boasts several major healthcare facilities where RNs can find employment:

1. Johnston Health
   • Address: 509 N Bright Leaf Blvd, Smithfield, NC 27577
   • Description: Johnston Health is a modern hospital offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and outpatient services. It is a part of the UNC Health Care system.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. UNC Health Care at Clayton
   • Address: 2138 NC Highway 42 W, Clayton, NC 27520
   • Description: Located just a short drive from Smithfield, this facility provides comprehensive healthcare services and is another great employer for RNs in the area.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. Duke University Health System (Located in Durham, approximately 50 miles from Smithfield)
   • Address: 2301 Erwin Rd, Durham, NC 27710
   • Description: As one of the leading healthcare providers in the state, Duke Health offers numerous opportunities for RNs across various specialties and departments.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

To become an RN in North Carolina, you must:

• Complete an accredited nursing program
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure through the North Carolina Board of Nursing

For more information, visit the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Smithfield can vary. For example, Johnston Community College’s ADN program tuition is approximately $2,500 per semester for in-state students. Financial aid options include federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

North Carolina is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in other NLC states without obtaining additional licenses. If you hold an RN license from another NLC state, you can work in North Carolina with minimal additional requirements.

Get Started Today

Ready to embark on your journey to becoming an RN in Smithfield, North Carolina? Contact one of the local schools mentioned above to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in nursing. Your future in healthcare awaits!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Smithfield 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 Smithfield?

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

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.