The Practical Nursing program prepares individuals to practice within the legal scope of practical nursing under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. Courses emphasize use of the nursing process at the practical nursing level toward the maintenance of health and prevention of illness, the observation and nursing care of persons experiencing changes in their health processes, and the evaluation of patient health practices.

Classroom instruction in theory and basic nursing skills is provided on campus. Under the guidance of program faculty, students gain valuable experience in the care of all ages in a variety of health care settings and/or community agencies – hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics and child care centers.  (Transportation to the community agencies is the responsibility of each student.)

Acceptance in the Practical Nursing program is based on a selective admission process.  Progression in the Practical Nursing program is contingent upon achievement of a grade of “C” or better in each course and maintenance of a 2.0 cumulative grade point average or better (on a 4.0 scale). CPR requirements must be successfully completed prior to enrolling in the first nursing course and must be kept current throughout the program. Documentation of active status on the Medicaid Nurse Aide Registry or successful completion of an equivalent nursing course is required prior to enrolling in the first nursing course.

Note: The Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN) may deny a nursing graduate admission to the NCLEX-PN Exam if an individual has been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony involving acts bearing directly on the qualifications to practice nursing.

Diploma
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Employment of Licensed Practical Nurses is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through 2008 in response to the long-term care needs of a rapidly growing population of elderly people and to the general growth of health care. Employment in nursing homes is expected to grow faster than the average. Nursing homes will offer the most new jobs for Licensed Practical Nurses as the number of aged and disabled persons in need of long-term care rises. Much faster than average growth is expected in home health care services. This is in response to a growing number of older persons with functional disabilities, consumer preference for care in the home, and technological advances, which make it possible to bring increasingly complex treatments into the home.

Practical nurses perform duties in the care of all age clients in acute care centers, local clinical agencies, and long-term care settings. Typical duties include monitoring vital signs by measuring blood pressure, temperature, pulse and respiration and recording data in the medical record. The Practical Nurse changes dressings, administers medications and assists in therapeutic and diagnostic procedures in addition to providing assistance with personal hygiene and activities of daily living to meet the clients’ basic human needs. Emphasis is placed on health maintenance, prevention of illness and rehabilitation.

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