Healthcare Education Programs at Duncan Polytechnical High School in Fresno, CA

Duncan Polytechnical High School in Fresno, California offers an impressive array of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the healthcare workforce or to continue their education in college. These programs are part of the school’s broader Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, which emphasize hands-on learning experiences, real-world applications, and industry-standard practices. Below are the key healthcare education programs offered:

Medical Academy

The Medical Academy at Duncan Polytechnical High School is a comprehensive program aimed at students interested in pursuing careers in the medical field. The academy integrates rigorous academic coursework with specialized training in various healthcare disciplines. Highlights of the program include:

• Medical Terminology: Students learn the language of medicine, focusing on terminology used in various medical professions.
• Health Science: This course introduces students to the fundamentals of health science, covering topics such as human anatomy, physiology, disease processes, and healthcare ethics.
• Clinical Experience: The academy often provides opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through internships and partnerships with local healthcare providers.
• Certifications: Students can earn certifications such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Basic Life Support (BLS), which enhance their employability immediately upon graduation.

Pharmacy Technician Program

This program prepares students to work as pharmacy technicians, where they will assist pharmacists in dispensing prescription medications to patients. The curriculum includes:

• Pharmacology: Students learn about various drugs and their effects on the human body, including drug classifications, dosages, and interactions.
• Pharmacy Law and Ethics: This course covers the legal and ethical issues related to pharmacy practice.
• Laboratory Skills: Students gain hands-on experience in measuring, packaging, and labeling medications, as well as compounding techniques.
• Certification Preparation: The program prepares students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam, which is a valuable credential in the field.

Sports Medicine

The Sports Medicine program is tailored for students interested in the rehabilitation and prevention of sports-related injuries. Key components of the program include:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Students study the structure and function of the human body, with a focus on the musculoskeletal system.
• Injury Prevention: Instruction on how to prevent common sports injuries through proper training, conditioning, and biomechanics.
• First Aid and CPR: Comprehensive training in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), critical skills for any sports medicine professional.
• Rehabilitation Techniques: Techniques for treating and rehabilitating sports injuries, including therapeutic exercises and the use of medical devices.

Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN)

The LVN program provides students with the skills and knowledge required to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Important features of this program include:

• Patient Care: Training in providing basic patient care, including monitoring vital signs, assisting with daily living activities, and administering medications.
• Clinical Rotations: Students participate in clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
• NCLEX-PN Preparation: The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), which is necessary for licensure.

Get Started Today

Duncan Polytechnical High School’s healthcare education programs are designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and certifications needed to enter the healthcare field successfully. These programs not only prepare students for immediate employment but also lay a strong foundation for further education in healthcare professions. For students interested in making a difference in the healthcare industry, Duncan Polytechnical High School offers a robust starting point. For more information or to enroll in one of these programs, prospective students and their families can contact the school’s admissions office or visit their official website.