Are you considering a fulfilling career in nursing? The Practical Nursing (LPN) program at Athena Career Academy offers a comprehensive and accelerated pathway to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Athena Career Academy Lpn Program, from admission requirements to career prospects.
Admission Requirements for the LPN Program
To be considered for the Practical Nursing program at Athena Career Academy, prospective students must fulfill several admission requirements. These criteria ensure that admitted students are prepared for the rigorous curriculum and the demands of a nursing career.
The admission process includes the following steps:
- Informational Meeting: Attend an informational session with an Athena Career Academy admissions representative to learn more about the program and ask any questions you may have.
- Online Application: Complete the online application for admission to the Practical Nursing program.
- Financial Aid Meeting: Meet with a financial aid administrator to discuss funding options and arrange payment plans for your education.
- Ohio Disclosure Course: Finish the online State of Ohio Disclosure Course as required by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
- Transcripts: Submit official high school transcripts or GED transcripts to verify your educational background.
- Identification: Provide a copy of a valid government-issued photo ID and your social security card for verification purposes.
- Citizenship Documentation: If applicable, provide necessary citizenship documentation such as an I-94 card with date of entry, current passport, and proof of alien registration number.
- CPR Certification: Submit proof of current American Heart Association BLS- Healthcare Provider CPR certification. This is crucial for healthcare professionals.
- Physical Examination: Complete a physical examination signed and dated by a physician or qualified medical representative within one year prior to your program start date.
- Drug Screening: Pass a drug screen within 90 days of your program start date to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment.
- Immunization Records: Provide complete immunization records, including:
- A 2-step PPD within one year of the start date or proof of an initial 2-step PPD with annual 1-step PPD documentation, OR a CXR within one year of the start date.
- Records for MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B series/waiver, recent Tetanus, and/or Titers. All health records must be completed by the first day of class.
- Background Checks: Complete both BCI and FBI criminal background checks and fingerprinting. Background check results are subject to review and approval by a director.
- Enrollment Agreement: Sign the official enrollment agreement to formalize your commitment to the program.
- Orientation Session: Attend the mandatory orientation session to prepare for the program and meet faculty and staff.
- Flu Shot Verification: Provide proof of receiving the current season’s flu shot for health and safety reasons.
- Coronavirus Vaccine Series: Show proof of completed Coronavirus Vaccine Series as part of health requirements.
Practical Nursing students in a simulation lab
Program Duration and Licensing
The Practical Nursing program at Athena Career Academy is designed to be completed in a focused timeframe, allowing you to quickly enter the nursing profession. The program duration is one year for day classes and 16 months for evening classes, offering flexibility to suit different schedules.
Upon graduation from the Athena Career Academy LPN program, you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Passing this exam is mandatory to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. Athena Career Academy is fully approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing, ensuring that the program meets the high standards required for licensure in Ohio.
Coursework and Curriculum
The curriculum of the Practical Nurse program at Athena Career Academy is comprehensive, covering essential aspects of nursing practice. Courses are designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for success as an LPN.
The program includes courses such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body and its functions.
- Fundamentals of Nursing: Basic nursing principles and skills.
- Pharmacology: The study of medications and their effects.
- Obstetrics: Nursing care for pregnant women and newborns.
- Pediatrics: Healthcare for infants and children.
- Medical-Surgical Nursing: Care for adult patients with various medical and surgical conditions.
- Geriatrics: Specialized care for elderly patients.
- IV Therapy: Techniques for intravenous medication and fluid administration.
- Professional Transitions: Preparing for your nursing career and professional development.
What’s Included in the Program?
Athena Career Academy’s Practical Nurse Program is designed to be all-inclusive, providing students with everything they need for their education. The program fee covers:
- Practical Nurse Training: Comprehensive classroom and lab instruction.
- Clinical Practicum: Hands-on clinical experience in real healthcare settings.
- Books & Materials: All required textbooks and learning materials.
- Lab Fees & Supplies: Access to and supplies for laboratory sessions.
- Uniform: Professional uniform for clinical and lab settings.
- Simulation Lab Training: State-of-the-art simulation lab for practical skills development.
Earning Potential for Practical Nurses
Graduates of the Athena Career Academy LPN program can expect promising earning potential. Many graduates secure nursing positions with competitive hourly rates. The majority of graduates have been placed in positions earning up to $25 per hour, reflecting the high demand for qualified LPNs.
Campus Location and Start Dates
Classes for the Practical Nursing Program are conveniently located at the Athena Career Academy campus at 5203 Airport Highway, Toledo, Ohio. New classes begin approximately every three months, providing multiple start dates throughout the year. However, it’s important to ensure all required documents and financial arrangements are completed by the registration deadline. You can view the Academic Calendar here for specific dates.
Ready to take the first step towards your nursing career? Athena Career Academy’s LPN program offers a direct path to a rewarding profession. Click here to get started and enroll now!
[
