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See which schools offer LPN programs in Alabama (AL) |
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Alabama offers an excellent place to begin your Licensed Practical Nursing career. Many hospitals in Alabama consistently rank among the best in the country. For example, the UAB medical system leads in cancer research, neurosurgery, sports medicine, and other specialties. Additionally, hospital systems in Birmingham, Huntsville, and Montgomery consistently receive national recognition. Because of this outstanding healthcare environment, you will find plenty of opportunities as a newly licensed LPN. In fact, Alabama faces a shortage of registered nurses, which increases job openings for LPNs. As a result, you have a strong chance of finding employment soon after graduation. Additionally, LPNs in Alabama typically earn around $50,000 per year. When you combine this with the state’s relatively low cost of living, you can see why many people choose this career path. Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects growth in LPN jobs. Therefore, you can expect strong job security and a stable future if you pursue this profession in Alabama.
In Alabama, you will follow a process to become an LPN that is similar to the rest of the country. As an LPN, you work under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. To begin, you must complete a certification program. Luckily, this program usually takes about one year, which is much shorter than RN programs that last two to four years. While some hospitals still offer LPN training, most students choose to attend local community colleges. After you finish your year of study, you need to take the NCLEX-PN exam. Once you pass this test, you are ready to enter the workforce as an LPN. Therefore, you can start your nursing career more quickly than those pursuing an RN path. As an LPN, you carry out many duties that are similar to those of an RN. However, you always work under the close supervision of a registered nurse or doctor, which means you have less independence. For example, you may administer intravenous medications and provide medication to patients. In addition, you check vital signs and monitor patients’ conditions. Often, you will change bandages, watch for bed sores, and assist with tasks such as changing bedpans and bedding. Because these less glamorous duties are often assigned to LPNs, you will need to handle them regularly. If you want more independence or to avoid these tasks, you should consider furthering your education and training. Many people choose LPN certification as a first step toward becoming a registered nurse. Since RN programs are often very competitive, starting as an LPN gives you a strong advantage. For example, when schools select the most qualified RN applicants, they often prefer candidates who already have real nursing experience. Furthermore, starting your nursing career as an LPN allows you to determine if nursing is the right fit for you. After all, nursing is a demanding job and may not be the best career for everyone. By starting with LPN certification, you can try out the profession with less risk and less expense. Instead of spending a lot of money and two to four years on a degree you may never use, you can invest a small amount of time and money as an LPN. This way, you gain practical experience, learn about the field, and make a more informed decision about your future in nursing. LPN Programs in Alabama |
Alabama LPN SchoolsYou can use our directory to find all Alabama schools that currently offer approved practical nursing programs. The Alabama State Board of Nursing actively oversees and approves these programs. To obtain approval, a school must demonstrate to the board that its program effectively prepares students with the knowledge and skills necessary for licensure as licensed practical nurses. Then, the board keeps a close watch on each program’s success. For example, graduation rates and NCLEX pass rates play a big role in keeping a program’s approval. If a school’s results start to drop in either area, the board can quickly take action. As a result, a program may lose its state approval or be placed on probationary status until its results improve. By staying informed about these standards, you can choose a school with a strong record and better chances for your own success. Required LPN Classes in AlabamaPractical nursing programs often require different coursework, depending on the school you choose. Even so, you will almost always find certain core subjects in most programs. For example, typical LPN classes include Anatomy & Physiology, Basic Nursing Skills, Nutrition, Math for Nurses, Psychology, and Pharmacology. As you study these topics, you gain the essential knowledge you need to succeed as a licensed practical nurse. With this strong foundation, you can feel confident in performing your duties in the healthcare field.
How to Become an LPN in AlabamaFirst, explore various education programs until you find one that suits your needs and schedule. Next, sign up for an LPN training program that the Alabama Board of Nursing approves. Most students finish these programs in about one year.After you complete all your classes, you can take the NCLEX-PN exam. When you pass the test, you can register with Alabama as a licensed practical nurse. Then, you are ready to start looking for a job. |
