Finding the Right Institution to Apply for as a PN
Posted On June 15,2017
A practical nursing program prepares you for an entry-level position in the medical field. Thereafter, you can advance your career and take up leadership positions within the medical field; join a specialty; become an educator in nursing or take up a job in a medical research facility. Alternatively, you can choose a different path and join the wellness industry. Either way, the institution you choose for your practical nursing education shapes your professional life.
Educational Advancement Opportunities
After completing your PN program, you may want to advance your education. Alternatively, you may want to go back to school after you start working. When looking for the right PN program to apply to, look for an institution that offers advanced courses. Institutions with other courses, such as a PN to RN program or a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, make it easier to advance. You will have a shorter application period, and the school is likely to give you first consideration. It is even easier to advance your studies immediately after completing your PN studies.
Program Accreditation
Accredited nursing schools guarantee you a state entitled and federally funded program. You also qualify to advance your nursing education in other accredited programs, including for BSN and master’s programs. The schools also offer you training under a national standard, increasing your employability with employers who prefer graduates from accredited programs. Some of the accreditation bodies include:
- The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), which accredits all levels and types of nursing programs
- The Council of Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs (COA), which accredits any anesthesia related programs in nursing up to the doctoral level
- The American College of Nurse-Midwives Division of Accreditation (ACNM), which accredits midwifery related courses
Always ask for accreditation credentials before applying into a PN program.
Exam Pass Rate
The NCLEX-PN exam you take after your studies defines your career in the healthcare industry. It is important for you to pass this exam to qualify for a PN license. Look for institutions with a high pass rate in the NCLEX-PN exam. Ask for records from the past 5 to 10 years to get a clear indicator of the program’s success rate.
Clinical Rotation
The best PN programs in the country provide as much clinical rotation time as possible. Current and former students can help you find out about an institution’s clinical rotation program. Look for a program that encourages a varied clinical rotation experience where you get hands-on experience in different departments and specialties. Some institutions may even help you find an apprenticeship during school breaks and holidays; prioritize their PN programs as you will gain experience and industry contacts.
Partnerships with Medical Institutions
Leading nursing training institutions enjoy a healthy relationship with hospitals, care centers and medical facilities. Some institution offer training partnerships, where students spend a significant amount of time in real-life medical settings. Look for such institutions in your application, and learn more about the opportunities you can enjoy through these partnerships.
The nursing institution you choose for your PN program influences your short and long-term success. Always look for an institution that offers you more than the course content. The personal and professional experiences you get largely influence your success in the medical industry.
In addition to the above factors, look for affordable institutions with a flexible payment program. Consider starting this exciting journey by taking the Athena Career Academy PN Program. You will enjoy a quality and rich student experience as you prepare for life in the medical world.
