Alabama Nursing Schools

Due to the growing demand for nurses all over the United States, Alabama nursing programs have seen an influx of students over the past few years. If you are thinking about attending one of the many nursing schools in Alabama, there are a few important things you must know about the state’s educational and licensing requirements.  The steps you need in order to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and a registered nurse (RN) are summarized below.

Alabama Nursing Schools

According to the Alabama Association of Nursing Students, there are 34 accredited nursing schools in the state. These programs will offer either a LPN certification or a two year RN certification.  As an RN, you are permitted to perform more tasks and hold more responsibility than an LPN. Most individuals who earn a LPN certification continue their education and become RNs.

When you have completed your program of studies, the Alabama Board of Nursing requires you to take the NCLEX exam. This exam is meant to measure the skills required to work safely and proficiently as an entry-level nurse. You’ll need to apply to the Alabama Board of Nursing to receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) to confirm that you have completed all the prerequisite coursework, and then register with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Getting Started as a Nurse After Receiving a Degree

While you are in the process of applying for the NCLEX exam, you will need to receive a temporary permit to practice nursing. According to the Alabama Board of Nursing, if an individual does not have a temporary permit, they cannot work in an employment classification that requires a nursing license. A temporary permit allows the applicant to use the title Nursing Graduate-RN Program (NG-RNP). With this designation, you are only allowed to work under direct guidance of a licensed registered nurse and you cannot be given charge responsibilities.

Once certified, you will be knowledgeable and competent with applicable statues and regulations, standards of nursing practice, skills in the area of nursing and consulting or referring patients to other healthcare providers. Becoming a nurse may seem like an intimidating process, but one that will certainly be worthwhile.

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