Regional Healthcare Staffing Challenges Prompt Program Revival
In response to regional healthcare staffing challenges, Pikes Peak State College is reviving its Practical Nursing Program starting this fall. This accelerated certificate pathway aims to quickly prepare students for entry into the healthcare sector.
Program Structure and Clinical Experience
The program spans three semesters, combining instructional coursework with practical clinical experience. The initial two semesters focus on classroom learning and laboratory practice using advanced equipment, complemented by clinical hours at nearby healthcare facilities during spring and summer.
Licensure and Responsibilities
Graduates will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and potentially work as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). LPNs perform fundamental medical tasks such as vital sign monitoring and communicating patient needs, operating under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians.
College Leadership and Program Significance
Pikes Peak State College President Lance Bolton described the new initiative a...