RN Programs in Saranac Lake, New York

Get your RN degree in Saranac Lake, New York - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Saranac Lake, New York

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Saranac Lake, New York? This guide will walk you through the steps to become an RN in this charming village, from understanding the prerequisites to finding the best local schools and training programs.

Why Become an RN in Saranac Lake?

Saranac Lake, nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a tight-knit community. Becoming an RN here means you’ll be part of a healthcare system that values personal connections and high-quality care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs is around $75,000 annually, with a strong projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029.

You can learn more about Saranac Lake by visiting its official website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• High School Diploma or GED: Essential for admission.
• Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs require exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Check: A clean criminal record is usually necessary.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs blend theoretical and practical training to prepare you for the nursing profession. Expect to take courses in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Nursing Skills

Clinical rotations in local hospitals and healthcare facilities are also a critical component of the curriculum, providing hands-on experience.

RN Training Programs in Saranac Lake, New York

Here are some local schools offering RN programs near Saranac Lake:

1. North Country Community College (NCCC)
   • Address: 23 Santanoni Avenue, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: NCCC offers a comprehensive ADN program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice in various healthcare settings.
   • NCCC Nursing Program
2. SUNY Plattsburgh
   • Address: 101 Broad Street, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 (approximately 50 miles from Saranac Lake)
   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
   • Description: SUNY Plattsburgh’s BSN program provides a broad-based education with extensive clinical practice in local hospitals and healthcare centers.
   • SUNY Plattsburgh Nursing Program
3. Clinton Community College
   • Address: 136 Clinton Point Drive, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 (approximately 50 miles from Saranac Lake)
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Clinton Community College offers an ADN program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
   • Clinton Community College Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake is home to several healthcare facilities that offer employment opportunities for RNs:

1. Adirondack Medical Center
   • Address: 2233 State Route 86, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
   • Description: The primary hospital in the area, offering a range of medical services and a supportive work environment for nurses.
   • Adirondack Medical Center Employment
2. Saranac Lake Health Center
   • Address: 104 Park Avenue, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
   • Description: A local health center providing outpatient care and specialty services.
   • Saranac Lake Health Center
3. Elderwood of Uihlein at Lake Placid
   • Address: 185 Old Military Road, Lake Placid, NY 12946 (approximately 10 miles from Saranac Lake)
   • Description: A nursing home and rehabilitation center offering long-term care and skilled nursing services.
   • Elderwood Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in New York, you must:

• Graduate from an Approved Nursing Program: Ensure your program is accredited by the New York State Education Department (NYSED).
• Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: A national licensing exam for RNs.
• Apply for Licensure: Submit an application to the New York State Education Department.

Cost and Financial Aid

RN program costs in Saranac Lake can vary widely. For example, tuition for the ADN program at NCCC is approximately $5,000 per year for in-state students. Financial aid options include:

• Federal and State Grants: Such as the Pell Grant and TAP (Tuition Assistance Program).
• Scholarships: Offered by schools and private organizations.
• Student Loans: Available through federal and private lenders.

Licensure Reciprocity

New York State participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in New York without additional licensure. If your home state is not part of the NLC, you will need to apply for licensure by endorsement through the New York State Education Department.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Registered Nurse in Saranac Lake, New York, is a fulfilling and impactful choice. Take the first step by reaching out to one of the local schools listed above. Investing in your education today can lead to a rewarding career tomorrow. Good luck on your journey to becoming an RN!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Saranac Lake 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 Saranac Lake?

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

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.