LPN to RN Bridge Programs in Maryland
As the nursing industry of Maryland adapts to changing standards and expectations in health care, you may realize that this is a great time to explore your options in continuing your education and expanding your scope of practice as a nurse. With a LPN license, you have many of the skills needed to explore a career in registered nursing.
Schools across Maryland are looking to higher-level nursing degrees as the future of nursing. Taking the step from LPN to RN increases the number of specialties you can work in, permits you to work more independently, and expands the tasks and duties you can complete in the course of your work.
Find out how you can get involved by learning more about LPN to RN programs in MD.
Why Should I Enter an LPN to RN Program in Maryland?
It can be difficult to take the leap to further your education in Maryland. However, the more you learn about the future of the nursing industry, the more you realize that this is a great move. Administrators at local hospitals and schools are excited for the future of nursing, especially the role that nurses play in research and leadership.
One of the benefits of this degree is the increased earning potential. While LPNs in Maryland earn an average of $50,000 per year, RNs in Maryland report an average salary of $71,400 per year (O*Net, 2014).
Curriculum of LPN to BSN Programs and LPN to ADN Programs in MD
Depending on where you live in Maryland, you may be able to choose from many different LPN to RN Maryland schools. Your options depend on whether you want to earn an Associate’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree. Keep in mind that Associate’s programs are shorter, but a Bachelor’s degree does give you the freedom to work in more fields and settings as a nurse. You may want to contact a variety of schools to find the perfect program.
As you evaluate Maryland LPN to RN programs, make sure to get familiar with their learning goals. These goals should build on what you already know as an LPN and take you to the next level in your experience and knowledge. They also focus on different areas of nursing practice, such as patient communication, collaboration with medical professionals, nursing knowledge and application, and ability to work under pressure.
Each school has their own set of clearly outlined goals.
To reach these goals, you can enroll in a number of nursing courses. Most of your courses should have a classroom component and a clinical experience component that takes you to a nearby clinic, hospital, or nursing home. Some of the classes you may find yourself taking include Child Health Nursing, Maternal Health Nursing, Adult Physical Nursing, Adult Mental Health Nursing, Health Assessment, and Dosage Calculations. If you are currently working as a licensed practical nurse, you may be able to earn some of your clinical hours at your current place of employment.
As a returning student, you can look into a range of financial aid options. Your employer may offer some tuition assistance or tuition reimbursement, particularly if you plan on staying there after graduation. You can also apply for funds through local organizations and government agencies. The Maryland Nurses Association is one of the largest nursing associations in the state.
Find out what you need to do to further your career today. Reach out to LPN to RN programs in MD for more information.