Healthcare Education Programs at Merced College in Los Banos, CA
Merced College, located in Los Banos, CA, offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the medical field. Below is a detailed overview of the healthcare programs available at this institution.
Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN)
The Licensed Vocational Nursing program at Merced College focuses on equipping students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to provide high-quality nursing care. The curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical experiences in various healthcare settings. Topics covered include:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Geriatric Nursing
Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed vocational nurses.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
The Certified Nursing Assistant program is designed for individuals who wish to become certified to provide basic nursing care under the supervision of licensed nurses. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Key components of the curriculum include:
- Basic Nursing Skills
- Patient Care Techniques
- Infection Control
- CPR Certification
- Communication Skills
Graduates of this program are qualified to take the state certification exam to become Certified Nursing Assistants.
Pharmacy Technician
Merced College offers a Pharmacy Technician program that prepares students for a crucial role in the healthcare industry. The program covers essential areas such as:
- Pharmaceutical Calculations
- Medication Dispensing
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics
- Anatomy and Physiology for Pharmacy Technicians
- Pharmacy Operations and Customer Service
Upon completing the program, students are prepared to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The Emergency Medical Technician program at Merced College provides students with the skills needed to respond to medical emergencies effectively. The course includes both theoretical training and practical experiences. Topics include:
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Systems
- Basic Life Support
- Trauma Care
- Patient Assessment
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Successful completion of the program qualifies students to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam.
Medical Assisting
The Medical Assisting program offers comprehensive training for students wishing to become medical assistants. The curriculum covers both administrative and clinical aspects of medical assisting, including:
- Medical Terminology
- Medical Office Procedures
- Clinical Skills
- Phlebotomy
- Electrocardiography (ECG)
Graduates of this program are prepared to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination.
Public Health Science
For those interested in the broader scope of healthcare, Merced College offers an Associate Degree in Public Health Science. This program provides foundational knowledge in public health principles and practices. Areas of study include:
- Epidemiology
- Community Health
- Environmental Health
- Health Education
- Biostatistics
The program prepares students for further study in public health or entry-level positions in health agencies and organizations.
Get Started Today
Merced College in Los Banos, CA, provides a diverse array of healthcare education programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring healthcare professionals. Whether you’re interested in nursing, medical assisting, or emergency medical services, Merced College offers the training and support necessary for a successful career in healthcare. For more details on enrollment and program specifics, visit the Merced College website or contact the admissions office. Start your journey towards a rewarding healthcare career today!