Lpn Programs in Oklahoma

To qualify for entry level nursing positions as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), you must enroll in a state approved nursing education program. LPN programs in Oklahoma could be completed in 12 to 18 months, and are offered by community colleges, vocational institutes, hospitals, and sometimes by high schools. There are some schools offering these types of programs that are affiliated with four year universities, and they may provide a better quality of education because of their resources available. You could enroll in an online program as well. This option is pursued by individuals who have may have other obligations or restricted mobility. Students in an online program may enjoy flexibility in course scheduling and the ability to complete coursework on their own schedules. However, the school should be accredited by the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing.

The purpose on a LPN program is to gain the required skills and competencies for successful nursing care. Different aspects of patient care are addressed throughout the program. This program comprises of concurrent completion of theory and practice and gradually builds the skill set going from basic to complex. In addition to this program, candidates will have to obtain licensure before they are allowed to practice. This involves passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). After completing one of the LPN programs in Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Board of Nursing requires graduate transcripts to be sent to it directly by the school. All applicants must be at least 18 years of age and should have gained a high school diploma or a GED certificate. While training to become a LPN, students are taught to be sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of the patients.

Program Objectives
After successful completion, students will be able to:

• Provide nursing care to  culturally diverse patients
• Achieve optimal health levels through therapeutic nursing
• Comply with the nurse practice act and adhere to the high standards of  nursing practice
• Keep in consideration patients' values, culture, religion, and customs while providing nursing care
• Promote health and healing by utilizing the knowledge of nursing theory and processes
• Resolve and address ethical dilemmas by utilizing ethical principals

Above all, these programs prepare participants for taking the NCLEX-PN licensing examination.

Curriculum
The program curriculum will vary from school to school. But generally these programs combine coursework and clinical experiences. Students take courses in the following subjects:

• Basic Nursing Practices
• Pharmacology
• Biology
• Maternal and Infant Nursing Care
• Child nursing care
• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing (no clinical experience required)
• Nutrition
• Anatomy, Physiology, and Human disease
• Geriatrics and Mental Health

Potential Employment Opportunities
LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has forecasted a 22% growth in their employment from 2010 to 2020. An increasing aging population has increased the demand for healthcare services. LPNs may be employed at hospitals, residential care facilities (such as nursing homes and assisted-living centers), outpatient care centers, and physicians' offices. Graduates of the program may also choose to pursue higher education in the nursing field.