Healthcare Education Programs at Wilkes Community College in Jefferson, NC
Wilkes Community College in Jefferson, NC offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge for careers in the healthcare field. Here is an overview of the available programs:
Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
The Associate Degree Nursing program at Wilkes Community College prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs). The curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experiences in healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive nursing education covering medical-surgical, obstetric, pediatric, and psychiatric nursing.
- Emphasis on patient-centered care, teamwork, and evidence-based practices.
- Opportunities for hands-on clinical experience in local hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Practical Nursing (PN) Diploma
The Practical Nursing diploma program trains students to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The coursework includes foundational nursing skills, human anatomy and physiology, and pharmacology, along with supervised clinical practice.
Program Highlights:
- Focus on basic nursing care, assessment skills, and medication administration.
- Preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
- Clinical rotations at various healthcare facilities, providing real-world experience.
Medical Assisting
The Medical Assisting program at Wilkes Community College prepares students for roles as medical assistants in physicians’ offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The program combines administrative and clinical training.
Program Highlights:
- Administrative instruction includes medical billing, coding, and patient record management.
- Clinical training covers tasks such as taking patient histories, performing EKGs, and administering injections.
- Students complete an externship, gaining practical experience in a healthcare environment.
Health Information Technology (HIT)
The Health Information Technology program educates students on managing and organizing health information data. The curriculum includes courses on health data management, coding, and healthcare laws and ethics.
Program Highlights:
- Training on the use of electronic health records (EHR) and health information systems.
- Emphasis on data accuracy, privacy regulations, and information management practices.
- Prepares students for roles such as health information technicians, medical coders, and records managers.
Pharmacy Technology
The Pharmacy Technology program provides students with the skills needed to assist pharmacists in various pharmaceutical settings. The program includes courses on medication dispensing, pharmacy law, and pharmacology.
Program Highlights:
- Instruction in pharmaceutical calculations, drug classifications, and preparation techniques.
- Preparation for certification exams such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
- Practical training through internships in local pharmacies.
Phlebotomy
The Phlebotomy program trains students to collect blood specimens for laboratory analysis. This short-term program includes both classroom instruction and practical experience.
Program Highlights:
- Courses cover venipuncture techniques, safety practices, and specimen handling.
- Hands-on training in drawing blood, assessing patient conditions, and maintaining proper documentation.
- Prepares students for certification exams in phlebotomy.
Get Started Today
Wilkes Community College in Jefferson, NC offers these comprehensive healthcare education programs to help students launch successful careers in various medical fields. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the college’s admissions office or visit their website for more information on enrollment, program requirements, and start dates.
Embark on your journey towards a rewarding career in healthcare with Wilkes Community College.