Arizona LPN Programs

The number of career opportunities for Practical Nurses in Arizona has been increasing lately. The profession has also been recognized as one of the more satisfying overall, based on the following criteria: average salary versus cost of living in Arizona. The state of Arizona has been ranked as the third best place for an LPN to live and work. Market research suggests that both RNs and LPNs can both live comfortably in Arizona. Many colleges and universities in Arizona offer both options: an RN degree program and an LPN education program. Nurse education programs are highly concentrated in the Phoenix and Tucson areas. These same metropolitan areas also offer the most job openings for LPNs in Arizona, as well as Scottsdale and Mesa. Slightly over 1/5 of all nurses in Arizona work as LPNs.

Licensed practical nurses assist both registered nurses and doctors in the care of patients. They are professionally trained to handle the daily nursing duties such as checking vital signs and applying bandages in some cases. Their work may consist of taking blood pressure or drawing blood. They are also able to handle office duties which may include making appointments or filing patient information. Licensed practical nurses work closely with both the patients and doctors and are usually the first point of contact. They are also supervised by a registered nurse in the facility.

LPNs are able to gain employment in nursing homes and clinics as well as hospitals and doctor’s offices. The types of duties performed are directly related to the type of facility they are working in. To become a licensed practical nurse in the state of Arizona applicants must first find the best school or program for their needs. Many of the state’s schools have fast track programs that will allow them to prepare for the National Council exam in less time. Fast track programs are best suited for individuals already in the work force who need more flexibility. Many Arizona based schools provide other LPN program options such as certificates or associates degrees that can be built upon to eventually complete a Bachelor’s degree in the future.

Classes will cover the fundamentals of nursing, patient data collection and how to properly take patients vital signs. Training also consists of courses in anatomy, medical-surgical nursing and physiology. Speaking with an academic counselor about enrollment options and the best order of study will give students an overview of what is required.

Employment opportunities are expected to grow by 15% in the practical/vocational nursing profession. With the rise in baby boomers being admitted into nursing homes and special care facilities comes the demand for skilled licensed practical nurses. Prospective LPNs can expect to earn as much as $26,000 in their first year. The salary can increase to upwards of $50,000 with experience and education. Pay may also depend on the type of facility and the job duties performed. Many facilities start licensed practical nurses off with an hourly rate starting around $12. To increase their income, practical nurses must gain experience in the field as well as continue their education to give themselves an edge over other applicants.

Potential students should consider the amount of time they are willing to invest in becoming a licensed practical nurse and then find a suitable program that will accommodate their individual needs. Employment opportunities are only offered to individuals who have successfully passed the NCLEX-PN in the state of Arizona.

List of LPN Programs in Arizona (AZ)

Arizona LPN Schools

Our directory lists all Arizona schools that currently offer approved practical nursing programs. The Arizona state board of nursing is the regulatory organization in charge of approving LPN education programs. To gain approval, educational institutions must demonstrate to the board of nursing that their program sufficiently prepares students with the knowledge and skills expected of a licensed practical nurse. The on-going approval of a program depends largely upon their graduation rates and the NCLEX pass rates of their graduates. If a program starts to produce poor results in either of these two categories they can quickly lose their state approval or be placed on probationary approval status until their results improve.

Required LPN Classes in Arizona

The specific course work required in practical nursing programs can differ from institution to institution. However, there are some subjects that are almost always included in most programs. Typical LPN classes include Anatomy & Physiology, Basic Nursing Skills, Nutrition, Math for Nurses, Psychology and Pharmacology. Topics covered within these subjects prepare students with the knowledge base required to perform the work of a licensed practical nurse. Gateway Community College requires their Practical Nursing students to complete Practical Nursing Theory and Science I & II with a grade of “C” or better.

How to Become an LPN in Arizona

Once the prospective LPN obtains a pre-licensure certificate or acceptable degree they can begin the process by researching available education programs to find one that suits their schedule and preferences. The next step is to enroll and complete an LPN training program that is approved by the Arizona Board of Nursing. Most LPN programs take roughly one year to finish. Upon successful completion of all course requirements you are eligible to challenge the NCLEX-PN exam. After passing the test you can register with the state of Arizona as a licensed practical nurse and begin searching for employment.