Virginia is expecting to have continued high demand for nursing professionals for the foreseeable future. The job outlook is strong and currently there are roughly 18% job vacancies. If you want to help others and a career in nursing has been your dream, now is an excellent time to get started. You should consider options in Virginia for nurse schools and nursing programs for either beginning your career or continuing your nursing education. It is one of the most rewarding careers both personally and financially. Virginia is also a compact state.
Licensed Practical Nurse Programs in Virginia
According to the Virginia State Board of Nursing, LPNs make up around 25% of the nursing workforce. LPNs are highly valued for their contributions to patient recovery and care. When you choose to begin your career in nursing as a LPN, you must complete a one year program that includes hands on experience. Once you have graduated you are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam. On any given day a LPN will perform many tasks, including bathing and feeding, monitoring fluid output, performing diagnostic procedures, monitoring IV lines and administering medications. They may also be responsible for taking patient measurements, wound care and performing other duties that are assigned to them by either a RN or physician.
Registered Nurse Programs in Virginia
There are 51 accredited nursing schools throughout the state. With two forms of RN degrees recognized by the Virginia State Board of Nursing (BON), you can decide to take the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program which is two years or the more extensive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program which takes four years to complete. Either degree option will allow you to take the NCLEX-RN exam. RNs are vital to successful patient care and can be expected to perform many duties, including treating medical emergencies in varying areas such as geriatrics, surgery or maternity along with supervising CNAs and LPNs. They may also be responsible for inserting IVs, diagnostic testing procedures, communicating with patients and family, administering medications and performing CPR.
Online Nurse Programs in Virginia
Online degree programs give you the flexibility to begin or advance your nursing career at your pace without having to attend a full-time educational institution. For those who have other obligations such as family or employment, this option is the best one to take. Many options are available in Virginia for nursing degree programs that have an online designation. Some of these include CNA, LPN, LPN-RN, LPN-BSN, RN-BSN and BSN-MSN. It is recommended for the student to check with the BON to make sure that the program is accredited properly.
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