I is the first year of an 18-month program from which the graduate is eligible to apply for licensure as a practical nurse. The program is accredited by the State Board of Nursing. Class topics include basic nursing principles and skills, essentials of medical-surgical nursing, personal and vocational relationships, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and nutrition. The second nine-month segment of the program consists of a full day of clinical experience at selected hospital and community health facilities as well as classroom instruction.
Students give direct patient care under the supervision of clinical instructors.
Instruction is given in obstetrics, pediatrics, psychiatry, and medical-surgical nursing. Graduates are prepared to function in entry-level positions under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. Previous high school grades are considered, with emphasis on reading, science, and math skills. Rising seniors are eligible, as well as a limited number of qualified adults who meet the criteria for success in the program. Graduates are eligible to take the State Board Examination for licensure.