LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Iowa
No matter how much time you’ve spent working as a licensed practical nurse, perhaps you’ve considered the growth opportunities that come with being a registered nurse. If you have been waiting for the right time to explore new career paths in this industry, now may be the right time. With quite a few schools focusing on expanding Iowa’s registered nursing population, you may be able to find the perfect bridge program for your schedule and career goals.
Becoming a registered nurse often helps graduates move into higher positions at their current places of employment or delve into new work settings entirely. With a registered nursing degree and license, you can work in a whole range of environments that are not open to LPNs.
Find out how to take advantage of this opportunity by finding out what LPN to RN Iowa programs require.
Why Should I Enter an LPN to RN Program in IA?
As you learn about the benefits of earning an Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s degree in nursing, you’ll see that committing yourself to your education is one of the best things you can do for yourself professionally and personally. To put it simply, the more you can do for your employer, the more indispensable you are. As a registered nurse, you can work in more departments, complete more tasks, and work more independently, making you a great asset.
With a higher level of licensure and greater responsibility, you may also be able to get more money in your paycheck every two weeks. Per O*Net, the average salary for a registered nurse is $53,200 per year, which is over $15,000 higher than the average salary for LPNs (O*Net, 2014).
Curriculum of LPN to ADN and LPN to BSN Programs in IA
Becoming familiar with LPN to RN programs Iowa schools provide and what they require can make you feel more confident about your choice to become a registered nurse. Most schools assess student performance through a set of learning goals. For example, you may have to demonstrate your commitment to professional behaviors, follow legal standards of practice, follow the standards of evidence-based practice, and utilize therapeutic communication techniques with patients and families.
To successfully accomplish all of your goals and outcomes, you enroll in a set of nursing courses that build on your LPN experience and knowledge. Schools in Iowa often require classes like Women’s Health, Mental Health Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Human Development, and Surgical Nursing. While moving through your curriculum, you should get experience in each area through your clinical hours. Schedules vary between schools, but many schools require over 300 clinical hours for graduation.
Since you’re already a licensed practical nurse, you may be involved in nursing associations and organizations. These can be excellent resources for scholarships and grants. The Iowa Nurses Association funds several significant scholarships for nursing students every year.
Now is the time to realize your full potential as a nursing professional. Take the first step and request information from LPN to RN programs in Iowa.
