Career Options While Pursuing an LPN to RN Program

One nurse’s definition of a successful career may be pursuing an LPN to RN degree and finding a job where they are able to coordinate patient care, while another’s may be to be directly involved in the care of geriatric or pediatric patients. However you define “success”, the advanced programs at St. Louis College of Health Careers will give you the tools and resources you need to excel in your path and reach your dream with confidence. Your resume is only the start to a successful career, and while the end goal is different for everyone, there are some common tools everyone can use, such as pursuing more advanced degrees and developing your skills. Find a job that caters to what you’re passionate about – whether that’s patient care, education or administration – and, if possible, has a good work-life balance so you can maintain that passion for many years without becoming burnt out. Honing your expertise and skillset within your specialization will make you a valuable teammate and employee – both of which can lead to a successful career. Currently, nurses make up a significant majority of the healthcare workforce with over three million employed, but only approximately have a master’s degree. You can gain a competitive edge over other nurses applying for leadership roles and higher-paying positions by getting an advanced degree. Seek out opportunities that give you more experience, like leadership roles, that make you a more likely candidate for further advancement. Successful nurses also keep up with technology and patient-care advancements in their field. Even if you don’t go back to school, seeking new and challenging continuing education courses can ensure your technical skills, medical knowledge and passion for the work remain fresh. Forgetting to take care of your own mental health can quickly lead to burnout, which has the potential to derail your career. Taking care of yourself – eating a healthy diet, getting a good night’s rest whenever you can and exercising as regularly as possible — can be crucial in alleviating stress, enabling you to care for others better and with ease. The faculty at St. Louis College of Health Careers will prepare you to excel in your chosen field, training aspiring LPNs, RNs and healthcare administrators to excel from the very first day. Call 866-529-2070 to learn more about and apply today.

How to Transition to a Nursing Position Outside of Bedside Nursing

Nursing CareerBy Collin Land July 12, 2024 Leave a comment

saw a substantial number of bedside nurses leave the profession, seeking another nursing position that wasn’t as taxing. The dedication and energy required to perform the duties of a bedside nurse are transferable and valued everywhere. However, if you are trying to jump to a higher-paying position or a separate specialization, getting an advanced degree can make their transition smoother. Dealing with arguably the most draining part of healthcare on a constant basis while suppressing your own emotional reaction in order to calm patients is one of the biggest stressors of the position. Bedside nurses work irregular hours that can stretch into the night and well into the next day. These positions may require nurses to work weekends and holidays – all while spending long hours on their feet running all over the place. This can not only lead to an unhealthy work-life balance, but this schedule can also lead to bodily wear and tear and raise nurses’ risk of developing injuries from repetitive strain. Healthcare professionals are among the most vulnerable to workplace violence, with patient aggression in hospitals and nursing homes negatively affecting bedside nurses. This is made worse by the unsafe nurse-to-patient ratios, which can create potentially dangerous working conditions that can overwhelm bedside nurses. Between the high patient loads, caring for critically ill patients, talking to concerned family members and critical understaffing, many nurses experience burnout. This can all be compounded if your team is overwhelmed and unable to work efficiently together , which is a substantial factor in nurse turnover. Not all reasons are necessarily due to a distaste for bedside nursing – some may be seeking an opportunity to pursue a higher-paying job or a position in a different specialization, such as education, healthcare administration, clinical research or critical care. The most effective way to change course is to pursue an advanced degree. While certifications can give nurses quick accreditation in areas they may want to pursue, going back to school can show employers your dedication to cultivating your skillset, which can subsequently increase your chances of getting hired as well as increase your earning potential. Completing an advanced degree in can provide tangible evidence of your in-depth knowledge and refined skillset, giving you (and your employers) confidence that you can perform well in a higher position and will be able to hit the ground running from the moment you’re hired. At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we prepare aspiring and transitioning nurses for their dream position with one-on-one guidance delivered by experienced faculty, hands-on training and ample clinical experience. Strengthen your abilities at your own pace with in-person and online programs that are flexible to your work and life schedule. Learn more about our programs and today by calling 866-529-2070.

Are Fewer People Going Into Nursing Post-COVID-19

Nursing CareerBy Collin Land March 30, 2024 Leave a comment

Put simply, no. While there are concerns that nurses are . Hospitals saw a dramatic staffing shortage during the pandemic that they’ve yet to fully recover from. The overwhelming hours brought on by the pandemic, compounded by a high case workload and exacerbated anxiety, took a toll on nurses, resulting in some nurses retiring early or pursuing different career paths. COVID-19 was a strenuous time for nurses that led to added stress in an already high-pressure job. Nurses faced increased risks of exposure to COVID-19 while caring for an unprecedented influx of patients. The demand on their time and increasing workload made it difficult for some nurses to get back home long enough to recover for their next shift. Although nurses were on the front line and became familiar with some aspects of COVID-19 earlier than the average person who wasn’t in the medical field, there were still many facets of the condition they learned about along with their patients. Anxiety about exposure in the early months was particularly bad for nurses. On the front line of the pandemic, many were concerned about their personal safety as well as the safety of their families. They had to wear a sometimes excessive amount of personal protective equipment (PPE) – masks, gloves, gowns, etc. – to protect themselves and their families, which made it difficult to use the restroom, drink water, stay cool or even breathe easily. And that was if they were lucky to have a reliable supply of PPE. Because the general public also wanted to acquire enough PPE to protect themselves, supplies started to run low, which hurt hospitals the most. All of this contributed to the high-stress environment during prolonged, irregular shifts that sometimes lasted longer than the traditional 12-hour maximum. The conditions made it difficult to maintain an adequate work/life balance. This led to the massive drop-out in staff during COVID-19 and well afterward. According to NCSBN, approximately after the pandemic, or too emotionally drained and exhausted to keep working. While a majority of those who retired or are planning to do so soon are older and are merely leaving the workforce a little early, a sizable minority (nearly 200,000) are younger than 40. As a result, of healthcare organizations have reported a significant staffing shortage. A serious shortage has led to high demand, meaning hospitals and doctor’s offices are having to pay more to attract and keep qualified nursing applicants. Many programs that introduced online courses during the COVID-19 pandemic are still offering them, which makes working while getting your degree easier. Because of the shortage, nursing is growing more quickly than many other occupations. The RN workforce is projected to expand by . There’s never been a better time to apply to a reputable nursing program that will help you hone your skills and put your best foot forward in your career. Get the education you need to stand out in your nursing career at St. Louis College of Health Careers. We offer comprehensive LPN, RN and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs that provide the comprehensive education and training students need to sit for certification exams and succeed in their field. Our course offerings are designed to optimize your critical thinking and reasoning skills so you can give your patients high-quality care in any setting. With online and in-person options, as well as staggered semesters that start throughout the year, students can get an accredited education on their schedule. Explore and start your application today by calling 866-529-2070.

5 Least Stressful Nursing Jobs

Nursing CareerBy Collin Land March 22, 2024 Leave a comment

To be clear, no nursing job is stress-free. Dealing with the safety, health and well-being of patients can be inherently stressful, and nursing may not be the ideal career path for people who struggle with those responsibilities. While highly rewarding, nursing is a demanding profession with long hours and high pressure situations, some of which a nurse may have very little control over. That said, some specialties are objectively more draining than others. Primarily, ICU, NICU and emergency room nurses are among the most strenuous positions in the field. Those workplaces require nurses to deal with rapidly occurring, high-stakes situations and physically exhausting work over the course of a 12-hour shift. While these positions have their benefits, including the opportunity to perform meaningful, hands-on and potentially life-saving work, there are other, less fraught positions nurses can fill. The experienced staff at St. Louis College of Health Careers will prepare you thoroughly for your desired position. Providing accredited associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s programs, including some with fully online options, we’ll give you the rigorous education you need to start your career with confidence. At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we thoroughly prepare our students to become LPNs, RNs, healthcare administrators and more. With reputable staff, challenging courses and hands-on clinical training, you can trust that you’ll receive the skills and confidence you need to perform optimally in any nursing profession you choose. Take the first step toward your dream nursing career. Call 866-529-2070 to learn more about and apply today.

Opportunities for LPNs to Specialize in Specific Areas of Healthcare

Nursing CareerBy Collin Land February 21, 2024 Leave a comment

One of the perks of entry-level positions within the greater healthcare field is career flexibility. Some types of medical professionals – especially nurses – play roles in virtually every type of healthcare facility and practice area. As an entry-level position, licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are able to gain specialized knowledge in a wide variety of fields. LPNs interact one-on-one with patients daily, monitoring their health, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals. Gaining specialized experience can lead to higher earning potential, increased job prospects, improved job satisfaction and greater eligibility for leadership positions. At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we give our students a thorough foundation of knowledge and skills that puts them in an ideal position to acquire specialized experience when they enter the workforce. This empowers our nurses to stand out in their field so they can pursue their ideal career. LPNs with this specialty work exclusively with older patients, providing specialized care in nursing homes, memory care and assisted living facilities and home healthcare settings. Those interested in this , including geriatrics, long-term care, IV therapy, life support and hospice and palliative care. LPNs can choose to specialize in pediatric care, addressing the unique healthcare concerns of children and infants. Nurses pursuing this specialization may benefit from obtaining their Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) certification and potentially a , depending on the position. An oncology specialization gives LPNs the opportunity to focus on patients undergoing cancer treatments, assisting with symptom management related to chemotherapy as well as other physical and emotional issues. Although oncology employers tend to favor RNs over LPNs, you may still be hired if you’ve demonstrated notable expertise in the field or have earned a Certified Oncology Nurse (OCN) certification. If you want to focus on children with cancer, you may need a pediatrics specialization with a Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON) certification. Surgical LPNs are right in the operating room, assisting surgeons during surgical procedures. They’re responsible for preparing the room for surgery, sterilizing equipment and ensuring patient safety. Due to the high-pressure working environment, LPNs with a surgical nursing specialty must have Certified Nurse Operating Room (CNOR) and Acute/Critical Care Nursing (CCRN) certifications. Some LPNs work exclusively with orthopedic surgeons to care for musculoskeletal issues and disorders, such as tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome. They work personally with patients to manage symptoms and help them recover after operations. These LPNs tend to work in orthopedic clinics, rehabilitation centers and surgical units. Although nursing in orthopedics doesn’t require a specific specialization, acquiring certifications in wound care, pharmacology and geriatrics can prove valuable, enhancing a nurse’s knowledge of medications and musculoskeletal decline. LPNs specializing in dermatology focus on assessing skin issues, administering treatments and occasionally assisting with minor wound care surgeries. Depending on the position, some LPNs may need certifications in wound care and pharmacology to pursue this path. Long-term care (formerly known as gerontology) allows LPNs to care for elderly or chronically ill patients in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers and skilled nursing facilities. Training includes learning how to effectively administer medications and manage proper dietary plans as well as coordinate treatments with other healthcare professionals. This specialization typically requires students to acquire certifications in long-term care, geriatrics and hospice and palliative care. A hospice and palliative care specialization gives LPNs the knowledge and tools to administer end-of-life care for terminally ill individuals and their families, offering physical and emotional support. LPNs interested in pursuing this important but emotionally demanding specialization may benefit from certifications in long-term care and hospice and palliative care. The at St. Louis College of Health Careers provides thorough training that equips students with the knowledge they need to pursue a fulfilling medical career. Our program molds students into skilled nurses who are well-prepared to hit the ground running the moment they’re hired. You’ll learn from experienced faculty with a focus on hands-on training and clinical experience to build up your ability to diagnose and implement treatments. The education provided at St. Louis College of Health Careers can help you transition from an LPN to an RN, with access to higher managerial positions and more complex specializations like . We offer fully online programs so you can advance your career conveniently and at your own pace. Gain a superior understanding of your field. Call 866-529-2070 today to learn more about our program and .

CNA Versus PCT

Nursing CareerBy Collin Land December 27, 2022 Leave a comment

Both certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and patient care technicians (PCTs) are vital members of health care teams. They provide basic care to patients, monitor patient conditions and report changes to nurses. Although both titles are often used interchangeably, it’s important to recognize these professions aren’t the same. In general, certified nursing assistants are responsible for helping patients perform everyday tasks, while patient care technicians may have more specialized duties. If you’re thinking about pursuing either of these roles, it’s important to know their responsibilities and educational requirements differ so you can make an informed decision. A CNA is a certified nurse assistant who provides basic care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities. CNAs help patients with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene. Other responsibilities typically include feeding and bathing patients as well as monitoring patient vitals. They may also provide emotional support to patients and their families and record patient symptoms and progress. A PCT is a patient care technician who provides basic care to patients in a hospital setting. PCTs may work with patients who are recovering from surgery, those who are receiving treatment for a serious illness or those who are receiving palliative care. PCTs may also work with patients who are preparing to be discharged from the hospital. Typical duties of a PCT include taking vital signs, recording patient information and preparing and administering medication. Although there’s some overlap between the two professions, there’s also a great deal of differences between a CNA and a PCT in terms of job duties and levels of patient care responsibility. CNAs typically have more patient contact than PCTs and may also be responsible for more clinical tasks such as taking vital signs and recording patient information. PCTs typically work more with medical equipment and may also be trained to perform more complex tasks like drawing blood, administering EKGs or operating dialysis equipment. The median annual salary for a CNA is , but salaries can vary greatly depending on the state or region in which they work. CNAs in Missouri earn a median salary of $42,564. The job outlook for CNAs is also positive. projects that the number of positions for CNAs will grow by five percent between 2021 and 2031, meaning there will be plenty of opportunities for CNAs in the years to come. The average salary for a Patient Care Technician is . However, salaries can vary depending on the level of experience and education you have. The median salary of a Missouri-based PCT is $50,360. The job outlook for Patient Care Technicians is good, with employment expected to grow by 18 percent over the next ten years. This is much faster than the average for all occupations. Whether you’re inclined to become a CNA or a PCT, earning a from the fully accredited St. Louis College of Health Careers will equip you with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to work in both roles. Candidates interested in becoming a licensed practical nurse are encouraged to apply for our four semester . To learn more about how SLCHC can help you pursue , call 866-529-2070.

Differences Between an LPN LVN RN and APN

Nursing CareerBy Collin Land December 30, 2021 Leave a comment

If you enjoy caring for others while earning a generous salary, a career in nursing may be the right fit for you. The demand for nurses is never-ending and the employment rate . While hospitals are usually the go-to employers for many nurses, there are several other practice settings where you can apply your skills, like schools, assisted living homes, cruise ships or military bases. There are many titles within the nursing field, including licensed practical nurse (LPN), licensed vocational nurse (LVN), registered nurse (RN) and advanced practice nurse (APN). Understanding the differences in qualifications and responsibilities between these titles may help you decide which career path in nursing is right for you. Despite slightly different job titles, both LPNs and LVNs have the same responsibilities. Both work under doctors and are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). Your title will depend on your geographical location. The term LVN is used in Texas and California, while the rest of the United States uses the term LPN. As an LPN, your job responsibilities will involve caring for low-risk patients with relatively simple needs. However, becoming an LPN requires rigorous training, including classroom study and hands-on practice. You’ll be diving into a broad array of subjects ranging from anatomy, pharmacology and nutrition to intercultural awareness when caring for patients. If you’re curious about a career in healthcare but not quite ready to make a long-term commitment, becoming an LPN may be the way to go. LPN programs are generally a lot less expensive and time consuming than RN programs. With commitment and focus, you can complete the program within a year. Once you’ve worked as an LPN, you may decide it’s time to advance your knowledge and skills by becoming a registered nurse. As an RN, you will transition from basic nursing care, like checking blood pressure or drawing blood, to more challenging responsibilities, like performing diagnostic tests, analyzing results and supervising LPNs and nursing aides. With an increase in responsibilities comes an increase in salary. While the median annual salary for LPNs in the United States is . Becoming a RN usually requires a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing, but there are several other options available. For example, St. Louis College of Health Careers offers an accelerated for individuals with LPN competency. Nurses with masters and doctoral degrees may also pursue academic careers working as nurse educators at nursing schools, colleges and universities. APNs are usually the highest-paid nurses, with an annual salary often . For more than 40 years the St. Louis College of Health Careers has offered academically rigorous, hands-on training for students pursuing carriers in the healthcare industry. We have a diverse array of and a rich catalog of courses to match your professional goals and to help you advance your academic journey. Our on-campus and online classes give students flexibility in both their scheduling and learning preferences. Students of our St. Louis and Fenton campuses find great opportunities to immerse themselves in academic and practical training environments. You can learn more about our programs by calling us at 866-529-2070 or by on our website.

Category Archives: Nursing Career