Directory of state-approved LPN training classes |
Practical Nurse Careers In Minnesota The LPN career seems stable and rewarding. Minnesota’s nursing shortage has created a great need for LPNs as well as RNs and employers are fighting over the pool of available candidates. With the “over 65” population growing at astounding rates this demand will continue to grow.
The majority of states require that LPNs meet several physical strength and health requirements. Among these LPN requirements are: • Ability to lift heavy weight (70 pounds or more) There are many career options for LPNs including home health (the fastest growing sector in health care), physician’s offices, hospitals, medical clinics, medical spas, and other health care related facilities. There are LPN to BSN bridge programs in Minnesota for those who wish to earn their Bachelor’s degree in nursing and/or become a registered nurse (RN). The primary method of becoming a certified LPN in Minnesota is by way of licensure by examination (after graduation from an approved LPN school). After you pass the NCLEX-PN with a score of 70 or more, the NCSBN notifies the Board and they send your Minnesota LPN license by mail. The license process does not end here. The Board requires that LPNs renew their licenses every two years after they have demonstrated completion of continuing education courses. An LPN in Minnesota earns an average of $38,840/year with an average hourly rate of $18.67 according to employment data compiled in May 2009. Minnesota LPNs earn slightly less on average than LPNs in other US states, since the national average LPN salary is around $40,900/year and $19.14 per hour. However, the benefits of working in Minnesota and enjoying a lower cost of living can sometimes outweigh the benefit of a higher salary. There are approximately 19,220 certified LPNs in the state of Minnesota. List of LPN Programs in Minnesota (MN) |
Minnesota LPN SchoolsOur directory lists all Minnesota schools that currently offer approved practical nursing programs. The Minnesota 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 MinnesotaThe 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. How to Become an LPN in MinnesotaStart the process by researching available education programs to find one that suits your schedule and preferences. The next step is to enroll and complete an LPN training program that is approved by the Minnesota 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 Minnesota as a licensed practical nurse and begin searching for employment. Taking the NCLEX-PN Exam in MinnesotaWhen it comes time to challenge the practical nursing license exam it is advisable to prepare for the exam with a self-study program or classroom prep course. Knowing what to expect on the actual test and completing practice questions can increase your chances of passing. When you feel ready to take the test, apply for your practical nursing license with the Minnesota state board of nursing and register with Pearson VUE. There is a $200 fee required in order to register for the exam. The next step is to wait until you receive confirmation of your Authorization to Test (ATT). Once you receive your ATT you can schedule your NCLEX exam with Pearson VUE at a nearby testing center. LPN Quick Reference Links Minnesota Board of Nursing
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