The Dos and Don'ts of Getting Accepting Into An LPN Program

Licensed practical nurses are in high demand, so now is great time to train for a great career as an LPN. Of course, to do this you will need a proper nursing education. That means you need to get accepted into an LPN program. It sounds simple, but preparing to start schooling can get a bit overwhelming. Here is a list of dos and don’ts for you to follow in order to get yourself accepted in to an LPN program and not mourning over a missed opportunity.

Definitely Do This:

Apply

You can’t get accepted into an LPN program until you apply. First you must submit an application. Today it easier than ever because most nursing schools accept online applications. You will need to submit a copy of you high school or GED transcript along with your application. Most schools will also require you to pass an entrance exam. The test results are to be submitted with you application as well.

Attend Informational Meetings

It may seem like preparing to enter a nursing program is a never-ending schedule of meetings, however, these meetings are for your benefit. They will answer most of the questions and concerns you will have during the application and admissions process. You will first attend an informational meeting with an admissions representative and then attend an individual meeting with a financial aid administrator for funding arrangements. Finally, after you are admitted to a nursing program you will be required to attend an orientation session where requirements, protocols, and expectations of incoming nursing students will be discussed.

Be current on Immunizations and Physicals

It may seem like a no-brainer, but nursing students must be current on physicals and immunizations. This includes MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, Tetanus and others. You will also need a current flu shot. Most nursing programs will also require you have a physical that is signed and dated by a physician or qualified medical representative, and complete a drug screening.

Complete Requirements

There are several other requirements you will need to complete before you can start nursing school. You will need to prove you are eligible to attend a nursing program by submitting a copy of your valid government identification and signed social security card. To be a nursing student you will also need to complete an online State of Ohio Disclosure Course, and a BCI and FBI criminal background check. You will also need to have a certificate of completion of courses in Basic Lifesaving and CPR.

Don't Do This:

Don't Miss the Deadline

Be sure to pay attention to when all of your application paperwork is due. It is best advised to get everything in well ahead of the cutoff date in case there are unforeseen issues with your application. It is not easy getting into nursing school, so it would be a shame if your hard work preparing to apply was dismissed just because you didn’t get everything turned in by the deadline.

Don't Give up

If you are not accepted into a nursing school on the first try, it is not the end of your nursing career aspirations, simply submit another application and re-apply. You may need to make some minor adjustments to your application or finish some prerequisites. Staying focused on your goal to get into nursing school is good practice for when you will need to focus on patient care. Your persistence will pay off.

Athena Career Academy specializes in the field of nursing. You can train to become a Practical Nurse in just one year. Our admissions counselors are available to guide you through the entire application and acceptance process. Contact Athena Career Academy today.