RN Programs in Coos Bay, Oregon

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Coos Bay, Oregon

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Coos Bay, Oregon? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this beautiful coastal town. From local RN programs and prerequisites to job opportunities and certification requirements, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in Coos Bay?

Coos Bay, with its stunning coastal views and friendly community, is an excellent place to start your nursing career. Coos Bay offers a unique blend of small-town charm and essential healthcare services, making it an ideal location for aspiring RNs. The average salary for an RN in Oregon is approximately $96,230 per year, and the job growth for RNs is projected to be 6% from 2021 to 2031. For more details, you can check out the job outlook for RNs on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before enrolling in an RN program, you’ll need to meet some prerequisites. Generally, these include:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Meeting the minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
• Passing entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)
• Completing a background check
• Providing immunization records and possibly undergoing a physical exam

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs typically offer a mix of coursework and clinical training to prepare you for the nursing profession. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology
• Nursing Courses: Fundamentals of Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, and Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced nurses
• Electives: Specialized courses such as Geriatric Nursing or Community Health Nursing

RN Training Programs in Coos Bay, Oregon

Here are some local schools offering RN programs in Coos Bay:

1. Southwestern Oregon Community College
   • Address: 1988 Newmark Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420
   • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
   • Description: This program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions. The college offers state-of-the-art labs and experienced faculty. For more details, visit the nursing program page.
2. Oregon Coast Community College
   • Address: 400 SE College Way, Newport, OR 97366 (Approx. 70 miles from Coos Bay)
   • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
   • Description: This program provides comprehensive training and prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Learn more on their nursing program page.
3. Lane Community College
   • Address: 4000 E 30th Ave, Eugene, OR 97405 (Approx. 120 miles from Coos Bay)
   • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)
   • Description: Lane Community College offers a robust RN program with excellent clinical training opportunities. More information can be found on their nursing program page.

RN Employment Opportunities in Coos Bay

Once you complete your RN program, you’ll find several healthcare facilities in Coos Bay where you can start your career:

1. Bay Area Hospital
   • Address: 1775 Thompson Rd, Coos Bay, OR 97420
   • Description: Bay Area Hospital is the largest hospital on the Oregon coast, offering a wide range of medical services. Check their employment opportunities page for current job openings.
2. North Bend Medical Center
   • Address: 1900 Woodland Dr, Coos Bay, OR 97420
   • Description: This multi-specialty clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services. Visit their careers page for job listings.
3. Coquille Valley Hospital
   • Address: 940 E 5th St, Coquille, OR 97423 (Approx. 20 miles from Coos Bay)
   • Description: Coquille Valley Hospital offers various medical services and has a supportive environment for new nurses. Visit their employment page for more information.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Oregon, you must:

• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
• Apply for licensure through the Oregon State Board of Nursing
• Complete continuing education requirements to maintain your license

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Coos Bay can vary. For instance, the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program at Southwestern Oregon Community College costs approximately $10,000-$15,000 for in-state students. Financial aid options are available, including scholarships, grants, and student loans. Check with the financial aid office at your chosen school for more details.

Licensure Reciprocity

Oregon is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs to practice in other NLC states without additional licensure. If you’re moving to Oregon from a non-compact state, you’ll need to apply for an Oregon RN license and meet any additional state-specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Coos Bay, Oregon, is a rewarding and achievable goal. With excellent local RN programs and abundant job opportunities, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Reach out to one of the schools listed above and take the first step toward your new career today!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Coos Bay 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 Coos Bay?

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

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.