Practical Nursing

The practical nursing program is a five semester, 59 credit-hour program which prepares students for employment in private and large group physician offices, clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities and other healthcare areas. Graduates receive a Technical Diploma (TD) in Practical Nursing and will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) as required by the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE). The Practical Nursing Program is offered at the Acadian site.

The Practical Nursing Program is a limited enrollment program. Students must be accepted into the program to enroll in any of the Practical Nursing courses.

The Practical Nursing Program trains students in all aspects of nursing with a focus on geriatric and long-term care. The program includes instruction in fundamental and advanced nursing skills, pharmacology, drug calculations, medication administration, nutrition, intravenous therapy, care of pediatric, obstetric, and mental health patients, leadership training and legal issues regarding nursing practice.

To receive this technical diploma, the student must:

• Meet the Admission Test Scores Required for the Practical Nursing Program
• Complete the pre-nursing courses with an 80% or better
• Submit a completed Practical Nursing Program application, including a criminal background check and drug screen, within the Application Period and be selected into the Practical Nursing Program
• Be able to physically perform the duties of the practical nurse
• Maintain the academic, clinical requirements and behavioral standards of the Practical Nursing program through completion achieving an 80% or greater in each course

Program Outcomes. Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will be able to:

1. Perform nursing care skills and responsibilities safely and effectively in a variety of client care settings within the legal and ethical framework of the entry-level practical/vocational nurses’ scope of practice.
2. Apply critical thinking skills and the nursing process in the development of plans of care and when assisting individuals to reach their maximum level of wellness.
3. Utilize a holistic approach to assist individuals of different ages, genders, races, and cultures to meet their basic needs and maintain homeostasis while providing organized quality nursing care.
4. Communicate and collaborate effectively with clients, families, and members of the health care team.
5. Reinforce client and family teaching for the provision of supportive and restorative care in a variety of health care settings across the lifespan.
6. Demonstrate accountability for vocational and professional behavior as the practical/vocational nurse and a commitment to continuing education and personal growth in the practice of nursing.