Licensed Practical Nursing Program

The next generation of Arizona practical nurses starts right here, with the Practical Nursing diploma program from Smith Chason School of Nursing. Almost all of us have required healthcare at some point — even if it’s just checkups at our family doctor — and it’s very clear how important the nursing profession is in every medical organization or facility. They’re a key factor in a patient’s point of care, and the education offered at Smith Chason can help prepare you to step successfully into this role.

Currently, we are not enrolling for this program until 2024. 

WHAT IS PRACTICAL NURSING

Licensed practical nurses operate in a space between a certified nursing assistant and a registered nurse. Practical nurses are state licensed, rather than certified, and often have a longer education program compared to nursing assistants. They are also generally allowed to perform more advanced tasks than CNAs. They often work under the supervision of doctors, physicians, and nurse practitioners. Practical nursing is a really great next step for CNAs, medical assistants, EMS technicians, and more who are looking to advance their medical career. It can also be a great position to gain experience in the nursing field while you work toward your degree if you decide to continue on with your nursing education.

WHAT DOES AN LPN DO?

LPNs are very involved with patient care, but the exact tasks they perform tends to vary depending on what state they work in and what kind of healthcare facility they’re employed at. It will most likely include things like:

• Taking patient’s vitals, like heart rate and blood pressure, and monitoring their health
• Administering basic care, which can include changing bandages, inserting catheters, and changing linens
• Assisting in patient’s hygiene and comfort by helping them bathe, dress, use the restroom, or eat
• Speaking with patients and family members about their condition and care
• Recording their health and status and referring any concerns to supervising medical professionals
• Drawing or collecting samples for tests

In some states, LPNs can administer medication and start IV drips, but those tasks are generally governed by state regulation agencies. Experienced LPNs may be charged with supervising CNAs on duty as well.

HOW DO I BECOME AN LPN?

Becoming a practical nurse starts with an education in a program like Smith Chason’s Practical Nursing diploma, which is both accredited by ACCSC and approved by the Arizona Board of Nursing. You should always choose a program that offers hands-on education in both school labs and through off-site clinic work so that you know you’ll be prepared with the right knowledge and skills once you graduate.

Practical nurses should also:

• Be compassionate — An empathetic and caring disposition are key in those looking to enter the nursing profession.
• Have strong interpersonal skills — As an LPN, you’ll be working with a whole team of other medical professionals, so being able to interact and communicate with them well is key.
• Be detail-oriented — Because you’ll be monitoring the health and status of your patients, you’ll need a keen eye for details so you can ensure they’re getting the care they need.
• Have good physical stamina — LPNs are often on their feet a lot and may be required to lift or support patients bigger than them or maintain body positions that are not ideal for comfort in order to administer care.
• Be patience — Working with people who are sick, injured, and oftentimes stressed or scared can be challenging, so it’s important for LPNs to be able to maintain patience and composure.

WHAT CERTIFICATIONS DO LPNS NEED?

All practical nurses are required to be licensed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing by successfully passing the NCLEX-PN exam. The Practical Nursing diploma program from Smith Chason utilizes a robust ATI program to help prepare you to take the NCLEX. Arizona is part of the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC) which allows LPNs to have one license to participate in multiple states. The current list of Participating NLC Member States can be found here: https://www.ncsbn.org/nurse-licensure-compact.htm

Smith Chason’s current NCLEX Pass Rates for our Practical Nursing program is 80%!*

*Current NCLEX-PN Quarter Rates for Qtr1 2022. Please see AZBN.GOV for per campus rates

LPNs can often add specialized certifications as they progress through their careers for things like:

• IV Therapy
• Long-term care
• Gerontology
• Pharmacology
• Hospice and palliative care

Professional Licensure Disclosure – Nursing Programs

WHAT WILL I LEARN IN A PRACTICAL NURSING PROGRAM?

Smith Chason is a school created by medical professionals and led by our team of experienced nurses, who pass along their expertise to each of our students. Our LPN program combines theory, technical skill, biology, pharmacology, simulation labs, NCLEX prep, and off-site clinical experience to build the skills and competencies you need as a practical nurse. With our flexible, 3-day-a-week schedule, we make it easy for you to learn about:

• The fundamentals of nursing, including anatomy and physiology of the human body
• Medical and surgical nursing and pharmacology
• The identification, treatment, and prevention of communicable diseases in patients
• Human growth and development and its effect on medical care
• Maternity and pediatric nursing
• Mental health, gerontology, and rehabilitation
• Professional roles and leadership within the nursing field

For over 20 years, the founders of Smith Chason School of Nursing have made it our mission to produce graduates who display both academic excellence and the highest levels of integrity. We are a true partner in your journey to becoming part of the nursing profession.