LPN Programs in Oregon
Choosing a career can be one of the most challenging tasks in one’s life. Looking into the growth rate and demand of an occupation before making a choice can give you a fair idea if it is a smart idea to pursue a certain career path. Oregon students who are not sure which industry can be worth getting into may consider starting a career in the healthcare sector.
The healthcare sector nationally is expected to add more than 5.6 million jobs by 2020. Like many other healthcare occupations, demand for nurses is likely to increase in Oregon. The nursing schools in the state offer a variety of programs that are suitable for students seeking to learn various nursing practices.
LPN Programs in Oregon
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are entry-level nurses who work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs). Just as RNs, LPNs also need to complete approved training programs and obtain a license to practice. Monitoring patients’ health, administering basic patient care, and discussing the care they are providing to the patient with his family are some of the duties of LPNs in Oregon.
A number of technical schools and community colleges as well as hospitals offer LPN programs in Oregon that award a certificate or diploma that usually require 1-year to complete, if not longer.
Program coursework
Combining classroom based instruction with clinical experience, LPN programs instruct students in a range of topics and allow them to learn to work with RNs and other healthcare workers. Some of the topics of study may include:
- Nursing
- Biology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Psychology
- Medical ethics
- Common nursing practices
- Special needs individuals
- Pharmacology
Learning outcomes
Graduates of LPN programs in Oregon may be able to perform the following, given that they pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and get a job as an LPN:
- Utilize the nursing process as a guide to assess, implement and evaluate basic patient care
- Assume responsibility for personal and professional growth
- Incorporate therapeutic communication to assist patients of all ages
- Combine ethical, legal responsibility, and accountability into actions and decisions.
Financial assistance for nursing students
Eligible nursing students in Oregon who cannot afford a nursing education on their own can apply for financial aid programs including grants and loans. Some of the options may include:
- Federal Pell Grant Program
- Federal student Loans
- Federal work study
Scholarships are also available for eligible students. Some of them include ONA Smith Education Scholarship, Bertha P. Singer Scholarship and Franks Foundation Scholarship.
What are the opportunities for graduates?
Oregon LPNs generally work in:
- Doctors' offices
- Residential and long-term care facilities
- Schools
Career outlook for licensed practical nurses in Oregon look positive. The Oregon Employment Department reports that LPNs earned an average annual salary of $46,009 in 2011.