Make a Difference as a Practical Nurse
Complete Our PN Program in as Little as 15 Months
Practical Nursing Program
If you’re a compassionate, caring person looking for a career where you can positively impact the lives of others, Beckfield College’s Practical Nursing (PN) program could be just the thing.
In this program, you’ll get hands-on training from experienced professional nurses as you learn the skills you need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This program can be completed in as little as 15 months and includes built-in clinicals, so you’ll be ready to start working immediately after graduation.
Working as a Practical Nurse
Practical nurses (PNs) work closely with doctors, registered nurses and other medical professionals to provide care for patients. Some of their duties include taking vital signs, preparing and administering injections, performing laboratory tests and providing bedside care.
PN Career Possibilities
Working as an PN provides almost unlimited possibilities. Practical nurses work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehab centers, physician’s offices, home healthcare services and government agencies. It can also be used as a stepping stone to pursue higher nursing degrees.
LPN VS CNA
Trying to decide between becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)? Both roles are essential in healthcare, but they differ in education, responsibilities, certification, job advancement, and salary potential. Choosing between a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a significant decision, particularly within the Cincinnati metro/tri-state area.
LPNPrimary Duties
- Monitoring vital signs, (e.g., blood pressure, temperature)
- Administering medications and injections
- Assisting with patient hygiene and personal care
- Collecting samples fo laboratory tests
- Providing wound care
- Maintaining accurate patient records
LPN Education & Certification
- Program Duration: 12-18 months
- Licensing Exam: NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses)
- Curriculum Includes: Anatomy, pharmacology, nursing principles
Industry Averages
- Average Salary: Approximately $54,050
- Hourly Wage: Approximately $25.99 per hour
- Mean Salary: $59,120 per year in Cincinnati Metro Area*
BLS Source - Job Growth: Positive outlook with increasing demand in healthcare
Primary Duties
- Helping patients with bathing, dressing, and eating
- Assisting with mobility and transportation
- Measuring and recording vital signs
- Supporting medical procedures as needed
CNA Education, Certifications, & Industry
- Program Duration: 4-12 weeks
- Certification Exam: State competency examination
- Training Focus: Basic nursing skills, patient safety, emergency procedures
Industry Averages
- Average Salary: Approximately $34,390 per year
- Hourly Wage: Approximately $16.53 per hour
- Mean Salary: $34,390 per year in Cincinnati Metro Area**
BLS Source - Job Growth: Steady demand due to essential role in patient care
Disclaimer:
Beckfield College's Practical Nursing program is taught by professional nurses with experience within the field. Practical Nursing diploma graduates should be prepared for the NCLEX-PN® exam and become qualified for an entry-level Licensed Practical Nurse position.
Nursing Careers Outlook
Both practical nursing and registered nursing programs offer comprehensive training that can lead to rewarding careers in healthcare. Nurses, whether practical or registered, are known for their diverse responsibilities and critical role in patient care, often resulting in higher salaries and a wide range of career opportunities. Practical nursing programs lay the groundwork in basic patient care and medical knowledge, while registered nursing programs expand into more complex medical procedures, decision-making, and leadership.
Sterile processing technicians and surgical technologists play essential roles in the surgical environment, focusing on the cleanliness and functionality of medical instruments and assisting during procedures. These positions are vital for patient safety and efficient surgical operations. While these roles are more specialized, they are crucial in the healthcare system.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market shows different trends for these fields. There are approximately 655,000 jobs for Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses, with a median annual pay of $54,620. Surgical Assistants and Technologists have about 128,900 jobs, with a median annual pay of $56,350. And 764,000 jobs for Medical Assistants, with a median annual pay of $38,270.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/surgical-technologists.htm
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/licensed-practical-and-licensed-vocational-nurses.htm
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm
Discover Your Nursing Path
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Medical Assistant, PN or RN
Some of the differences between a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), a Medical Assistant, a Practical Nurse (PN)/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), and a Registered Nurse (RN) include:
An PN (Practical Nurse), also known as a LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) in some states, may be found providing basic care to patients, administering certain medications, obtaining vital signs, and other appropriate patient care tasks delegated to them.
- Role
- Provides basic patient care.
- Education
- State approved education program.
- Responsibilities*
- Administer certain medications, may change dressings, obtain vital signs.
Whereas the RN (Registered Nurse), may be found to not only perform some of the same tasks as the PN, but additionally may create care plans for patients, perform physical assessments, and supervise PNs and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
- Role
- Provides and manages patient care and may lead nursing teams.
- Education
- Diploma, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree in nursing.
- Responsibilities*
- Provide patient care, may supervise others (e.g., PN/LVN, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and interprofessional collaboration.
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) may be found performing such tasks as assisting patients with daily living activities and obtaining vital signs. In addition to differing in terms of responsibilities determined by each state, these paths differ in training, and compensation as well. Some nurses have started as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), then become a PN, and afterward may have continued their nursing path to becoming a RN.
- Role
- Provides patients with assistance with daily living activities.
- Education
- State recognized training.
- Responsibilities*
- Assist with daily living activities, obtaining vital signs.
Medical assistants play a crucial role in healthcare settings by performing various administrative and clinical tasks to support physicians and other healthcare professionals. Their job duties often include recording patient histories, measuring vital signs, administering medications under supervision, scheduling appointments, and managing medical records. The hands-on experience in patient care, familiarity with medical procedures, and exposure to healthcare environments provide a solid groundwork for individuals seeking to pursue further education and training to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses (RNs).
- Role
- Administrative tasks and support to various healthcare professionals
- Education
- State recognized training.
- Responsibilities*
- Recording patient histories, measuring vital signs, assisting with minor surgical procedures
*Exact responsibilities vary by state
Why Beckfield College?
Since 1984, Beckfield College has been providing best-in-class nursing education to the greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky communities with programs that prepare our graduates to fill highly important roles in the medical community. Our BSN program has four start dates per year, which means you won’t be stuck on a waiting list.
Students are admitted directly into the program, with no pre-nursing prerequisites to fill. And longstanding relationships with employers can help you find employment upon graduation.
Welcome to our cutting-edge Practical Nursing Program – where essential hands-on experience yields a skilled and confident practical nurse! Some of our courses, such as general education, offers a seamless blend of convenience through an online learning/hybrid format. Dive into interactive online classes that can be accessed from the comfort of your home, allowing you to balance your education with other commitments.
Some of the nursing courses provide a unique opportunity to apply your knowledge in a safe hands-on setting, such as the simulation or nursing laboratory, while working alongside experienced professionals and gaining the practical skills needed for future essential hands-on experience at one of our approved clinical agencies, and in the field as a future practical nurse from Beckfield College. Elevate your career in nursing with a program designed for your success – join us on the path to becoming a skilled and confident practical nurse!
Financial Aid & Accreditation
Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
The Diploma in Practical Nursing program, the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, and the 3-year Prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing track are approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing. Beckfield College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), and is a member of the National League for Nursing. The Beckfield College Practical Nursing and Associate of Applied Science, Nursing programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20032, 202-909-2526. The Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing (RN to BSN) Online track and the 3-year Prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing track at Beckfield College are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE). 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, (202) 887-6791.
General Admission Requirements:
- Meet with an admissions advisor
- Proof of high school diploma or GED
- Be a U. S. citizen, an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States, or a foreign national eligible for a student visa.
- Score at an acceptable level on any required pre-admission test.
- Be proficient in the English language.
- Pass the background check
Innovate, Inspire, Impact … The Beckfield Way!
Beckfield College in Florence, KY, perfectly located just 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Cincinnati. This perfect blend of urban accessibility and suburban offers students the best of both worlds. Our campus is conveniently situated and dedicated to delivering top-tier education. Beckfield College is accredited by Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), signifying its commitment to meeting rigorous academic standards.
Beckfield College provides various nursing training programs. These programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills essential for a successful healthcare career. These programs encompass a range of specialties, catering to various interests and career aspirations within the nursing field.
Choose Beckfield College for your nursing education that combines strategic location, academic excellence, and a commitment to your success in the dynamic world of healthcare.
Celebrating Success 2023 NCLEX Pass Rates Announced
Join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of our nursing programs!
Beckfield College proudly announces impressive NCLEX pass rates for 2023, with our Associate Degree Nursing program achieving a 93% pass rate and our Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at 88%. We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated faculty and staff, whose unwavering commitment has played a pivotal role in preparing our students for success.
Explore the full details and join us in applauding our graduates’ hard work and dedication.