RN Programs in Longview, Washington

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Longview, Washington

If you’re considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Longview, Washington, you’re in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about becoming an RN in Longview, from program prerequisites to local schools and job opportunities. But first, let’s clarify what an RN does.

Registered Nurses play a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing patient care, educating patients and the public about health conditions, and offering emotional support to patients and their families. If you’re passionate about helping others and interested in healthcare, this might be the perfect career for you.

Why Become an RN in Longview

Nestled along the Columbia River, Longview, Washington, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit. You can explore local landmarks such as Lake Sacajawea Park or visit the nearby Mount St. Helens. For more information about the city, check out the official Longview website.

Becoming an RN in Longview isn’t just about location; it’s also about opportunity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for RNs in Washington is around $91,310 per year, with job growth projected to increase by 9% through 2030. These factors make Longview an excellent place to start your nursing career.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet several prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or GED: Most programs require proof of secondary education.
• Minimum Age: Generally, you need to be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs may require you to take entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Check: A clean background check is usually necessary for admission.

Typical Program Curriculum

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

• Core Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in various healthcare settings
• Specialty Courses: Pediatrics, Geriatrics, and Psychiatric Nursing
• General Education: English, Psychology, and Sociology

RN Training Programs in Longview, Washington

Here are three local schools offering RN programs in or near Longview:

1. Lower Columbia College
   • Address: 1600 Maple Street, Longview, WA 98632
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Lower Columbia College offers a comprehensive ADN program that includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience. The program prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
   • Link: Lower Columbia College Nursing Program
2. Clark College
   • Address: 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA 98663
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Located about 45 miles from Longview, Clark College provides an ADN program with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical training.
   • Link: Clark College Nursing Program
3. Centralia College
   • Address: 600 Centralia College Blvd, Centralia, WA 98531
   • Program: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
   • Description: Approximately 47 miles from Longview, Centralia College offers an ADN program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the nursing field.
   • Link: Centralia College Nursing Program

RN Employment Opportunities in Longview

Longview has several healthcare facilities where you can potentially find employment as an RN:

1. PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center
   • Address: 1615 Delaware St, Longview, WA 98632
   • Description: A leading healthcare provider in the area, offering a wide range of medical services.
   • Link: PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center Careers
2. Community Home Health & Hospice
   • Address: 1035 11th Ave, Longview, WA 98632
   • Description: Provides home health care and hospice services to the Longview community.
   • Link: Community Home Health & Hospice Careers
3. Family Health Center
   • Address: 1057 12th Ave, Longview, WA 98632
   • Description: Offers comprehensive healthcare services, including primary care and behavioral health.
   • Link: Family Health Center Careers

RN Certification Requirements

To work as an RN in Washington, you’ll need to meet both state and national certification requirements:

• National Certification: Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
• State Certification: Apply for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs can vary, but you can expect to pay between $5,000 and $20,000 for tuition and fees. Financial aid options include:

• Federal Student Aid: Complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility.
• Scholarships: Many schools offer nursing-specific scholarships.
• Grants: Look for state and federal grants that don’t require repayment.

Licensure Reciprocity

Washington participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs licensed in other compact states to practice in Washington without obtaining additional licenses. For more details, visit the Nurse Licensure Compact website.

Get Started Today

Ready to take the next step toward becoming an RN in Longview, Washington? Contact one of the local schools listed above to learn more about their programs and start your application process. The journey to a rewarding nursing career begins with a single step. Take it today!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Longview 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 Longview?

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

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.