About the CareerASSOCIATE
DEGREE IN NURSING
DIPLOMA IN PRACTICAL NURSING
About the CareerKnown as “the profession of caring,” nursing is one of the most exciting and fulfilling careers in the world today. A decision to become a nurse is a decision to help people when they need it the most. The role of the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) focuses on the technical skills, general knowledge and judgment necessary to organize and provide caring interventions to patients with commonly occurring medical conditions. Practical nurses are prepared to give basic, therapeutic, rehabilitative and preventive care to clients with commonly occurring health problems in a variety of health care settings under the direct supervision of the registered nurse and/or other health care provider. The Registered Nurse (RN) builds on the basic knowledge and practice of the practical nurse, being able to function with greater independence, in more complex situations and with more acutely ill patients. The RN serves a vital role in teaching patients about their condition, develops the plan of care, and has supervisory responsibilities for licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants and other health care workers.
About the ProgramsPractical Nursing students and the Associate Degree Nursing students attend the same classes in the three semesters of the Practical Nursing Program. These semesters are designed to help students develop basic nursing skills in medical, surgical, obstetric, and pediatric nursing. The course of study balances classroom instruction with relevant clinical experience and provides the opportunity for students to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective practitioners of practical nursing.
The
Associate Degree Nursing students continue in their coursework to incorporate a
base of biological and social sciences with the knowledge and skills necessary
for the practice of nursing in the Registered Nurse (RN) role. Students further
develop skills in assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of nursing
care and in critical thinking necessary to provide safe and effective patient
care in today’s complex health care environment. For the LPN wanting to become
an RN, an advanced placement option is available.
After completing their programs, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examinations for Practical Nursing or Registered Nursing. Both programs are fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and approved by the South Carolina Board of Nursing.
