The Practical Nursing (PN) program teaches skills for direct patient care. This program curriculum provides knowledge and skills needed to provide safe and quality nursing care to meet the needs of our community.
Courses will incorporate the domains of healthcare, nursing practice, and the holistic individual. This will be emphasized through evidence-based practices, individualized nursing care, and participation in the interdisciplinary team.
Graduates will be eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) which is recognized for practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Educational Option Information
This educational option is an: Certificate of Completion
This educational option can be completed: Part-Time
This educational option is designed for: Students who want to pursue a career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). This program will prepare graduates to take the NCLEX-PN.
This educational option can be started: Any Term
Primary course location: Main Campus
Special Requirements
Physical Requirements
Students must be in good physical and psychological health. Students may be asked to provide documentation of a recent physical examination. Many health programs require the student to be able to safely lift and/or move a minimum of 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations are made for students with disabilities. However, some disabilities may prohibit students from completing program specific competencies or gaining employment. Students with disabilities that may interfere with completing program competencies are advised to contact the School of Nursing and Patient Support office for more information.
Criminal Background
Most of the health programs in NPS require students undergo the New Mexico Department of Health caregivers criminal history screening program. This involves state and federal felony criminal background checks with fingerprints. This must be completed prior to starting their program or prior to beginning their clinical experiences. Students with a disqualifying conviction can appeal some of those convictions through the New Mexico Department of Health. Depending on the program, students may or may not be allowed to remain in the program pending appeal. Students who do not successfully appeal a disqualifying conviction will not be allowed to start or remain in the program. A successful appeal does not guarantee eligibility for licensure after graduation in professions that require licensure.
Transportation
Students are responsible for their own transportation to off-campus training sites. (i.e. clinical courses at hospitals, internships, etc.)
Additional Requirements
Many of the health programs in NPS require students to undergo a routine urine drug screen, provide documentation of current immunizations, have a current Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support (CPR) certificate and other training prior to beginning the program or beginning clinical education, all of which, along with the criminal background check, are verified through the Office of Verification and Compliance.
