How To Enroll In An LPN Bridge Program

When it comes to enrolling in a nursing program, you'll find that there are a lot of options. If you don't want to spend years in school, you may consider an LPN (licensed professional nurse) program, which typically only takes a year to complete. RN (registered nurse) programs typically take two to three years. LPNs are more limited in terms of responsibilities. Some LPNs do take vitals and administer medications; however, they generally report to RNs. You don't necessarily have to choose between the two programs. One option you have is to become an LPN, then to enroll in an LPN bridge program.

Why Enroll in a Bridge Program?

Not everyone has the time or money to go straight into an RN program. For many, it makes more financial sense to become an LPN because it takes less time to complete an LPN program. Once they've become an LPN, they can always go back and complete a bridge program to become an RN instead of having to complete an entire RN program as an LPN. The LPN to RN bridge program at Athena Career Academy only takes 52 weeks to complete.

LPN Bridge Program Requirements

The following are the requirements that you will need to meet in order to be eligible to enroll in the LPN bridge program at Athena Career Academy:

• You'll need to complete an online admission application.
• You'll need to meet with an admissions representative.
• Depending on your financial needs, you may need to meet with a financial aid administrator to arrange funding.
• You'll have to submit a copy of your licensed practical nurse transcript.
• Your LPN licensure will need to be validated by the RN program director.
• You'll need to meet citizenship requirements.
• You'll need to provide proof of American Heart Association BLS -- Healthcare Provider CPR.
• You'll need to complete a physical within a year of the start date that's signed and dated by either a physician or a qualified medical representative.
• You'll need to pass a drug screening within 90 days of your enrollment start date.
• You'll need to provide immunization records for 2-step PPD (or a CXR), Hepatitis B, recent Tetanus, Varicella, and MMR, all of which need to be done prior to enrollment. You will also need to provide proof of the current season's flu shot.
• Within 90 days of your start date, you'll need to complete BCI and FBI criminal background checks and fingerprinting.
• You'll need to sign an enrollment agreement.
• You'll have to complete a State of Ohio Disclosure Course online.
• You'll have to attend the orientation session.

About Our LPN Bridge Program

Our LPN bridge program at Athena Career Academy includes classroom training, clinical practicum, and simulation lab training. The curriculum is divided into four quarters. During the first quarter, students will take classes in microbiology, chemistry, math, PN-RN transitions, intro to psychology, and psychological health, maintenance and restoration. The second quarter focuses on pathophysiology, basic composition, algebra, pharmacology, and adult nursing.

The third quarter will include classes on nutrition, ethics, e-nursing concepts, wellness and preventative care, family nursing, and cultural diversity. In the last quarter, you will take community nursing, advanced nursing care, and professional transitions/NCLEX readiness classes.

If you're an LPN and you want to take the next step in your nursing career and become an RN, then you should consider enrolling in our LPN bridge program. For more information about our LPN bridge program, be sure to contact us at Athena Career Academy today.