RN Programs in Yakima, Washington

Get your RN degree in Yakima, Washington - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in Yakima, Washington

Are you considering a career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Yakima, Washington? This guide will walk you through the steps to become an RN, from understanding the role to finding the right training program in Yakima. Registered Nurses are vital to the healthcare system, providing essential care and support to patients. Let’s dive into what it takes to join this rewarding profession in Yakima.

Why Become an RN in Yakima?

Yakima, located in the heart of Washington State, is known for its vibrant community and rich agricultural heritage. The city’s scenic beauty, with nearby landmarks like Mount Rainier and Yakima Canyon, makes it an attractive place to live and work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for RNs in Washington is approximately $82,670 per year, with a promising job growth rate of 9% from 2020 to 2030. Becoming an RN in Yakima offers not only a rewarding career but also the chance to be part of a close-knit community.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

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

• High School Diploma or GED: This is the foundational educational requirement.
• Minimum Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Entrance Exams: Some programs require entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
• Background Checks: A clean background check is often necessary for admission.

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for the profession. Here’s what you can expect:

• Core Courses: Subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology.
• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in healthcare settings, supervised by experienced professionals.
• Specialized Courses: Focused on areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health nursing.

RN Training Programs in Yakima, Washington

Yakima offers several excellent options for RN training programs. Here are three local schools to consider:

1. Yakima Valley College
   • Address: 1107 S. 16th Ave., Yakima, WA 98902
   • Program Description: Yakima Valley College provides an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
   • Program Page
2. Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences
   • Address: 200 University Pkwy, Yakima, WA 98901
   • Program Description: Though primarily known for its medical programs, Pacific Northwest University offers pathways and partnerships for nursing education, focusing on advanced practice and leadership roles.
   • Program Page
3. Central Washington University (Ellensburg)
   • Address: 400 E. University Way, Ellensburg, WA 98926 (approximately 36 miles from Yakima)
   • Program Description: CWU offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program with comprehensive training in various nursing disciplines. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and community health.
   • Program Page

RN Employment Opportunities in Yakima

Once you’ve completed your training, there are numerous employment opportunities in Yakima:

1. Virginia Mason Memorial Hospital
   • Neighborhood: West Valley
   • Description: A leading healthcare facility in Yakima, providing a wide range of services from emergency care to specialized treatments.
   • Employment Opportunities
2. Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic
   • Neighborhood: Southeast Yakima
   • Description: This clinic offers comprehensive healthcare services, focusing on underserved populations.
   • Employment Opportunities
3. Astria Regional Medical Center
   • Neighborhood: Downtown Yakima
   • Description: Astria Health provides extensive healthcare services, including surgical, cardiac, and maternity care.
   • Employment Opportunities

RN Certification Requirements

In Washington State, RNs must meet both state and national certification requirements:

• NCLEX-RN Exam: Passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
• Washington State Department of Health: Apply for licensure through the Washington State Department of Health.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Yakima varies:

• Yakima Valley College: Approximately $4,500 per year for in-state students.
• Pacific Northwest University: Tuition varies based on the program and partnerships.
• Central Washington University: Around $23,000 per year for in-state students.

Financial aid options include federal student loans, scholarships, and grants. Check with each school’s financial aid office for specific opportunities.

Licensure Reciprocity

Washington State participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing RNs to practice in other NLC states without additional licensure. If you’re moving to Washington, you’ll need to apply for a Washington RN license through the Washington State Department of Health and meet any additional state-specific requirements.

Get Started Today

Becoming a Registered Nurse in Yakima, Washington, is a rewarding journey that starts with the right education and training. Contact a local school today to learn more about their RN programs and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in healthcare.

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Yakima 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 Yakima?

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.