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Exploring the Role of Occupational Therapy in Pediatric Care

Pediatric occupational therapy (OT) is a field uniquely focused on enhancing the physical, cognitive and social abilities of children and adolescents. It differs from general OT by specifically addressing the developmental needs of children as their brains and bodies grow, tackling conditions like developmental delays, autism and sensory disorders, as well as physical and learning challenges that might be temporary or permanent. Customized to each child’s developmental stage, pediatric OT is key to fostering independence and success at home, with friends and at school. Occupational therapists (OTs) and (OTAs) help ensure children develop the fine and gross motor skills essential for everyday childhood tasks like handwriting, self-feeding or sports. Therapists also aid in developing sensory processing strategies so children are better able to interpret and respond appropriately to changing surroundings. These practitioners use a variety of methods to build cognitive and social skills that are vital for academic and social success while also addressing developmental delays and learning disabilities. As patients make progress, more complex tasks like self-care and living skills are taught, ultimately empowering children to embrace independence. Play-based therapies rely on games and fun activities, making OT sessions enjoyable and effective for patients and practitioners. Thanks to advancements in assistive technologies and devices, practitioners are able to develop patient communication and social or environmental interactions. Customized therapy plans and family involvement are crucial for ensuring success outside of the clinical setting and into home and school settings. Occupational therapy for children isn’t limited to the confines of a clinic or hospital; it’s a collaborative journey that deeply involves the family. The role of an OT transcends direct therapy with the child; they serve as a coach and resource for family members, who are essential partners in the therapeutic process. Family involvement begins with education, helping parents and siblings understand the child’s challenges and strengths. OTs and OTAs guide families through home-based exercises that reinforce the day’s therapy, ensuring continuity and consistency in the child’s progress. They also teach techniques for behavior management and adapt daily routines to accommodate the child’s needs. By equipping families with the tools to create a supportive home environment, occupational therapists empower families to become advocates for their child’s development. Regular family meetings and workshops can further solidify this partnership, providing a platform for shared experiences and collective learning. By helping children develop these fundamental skills, occupational therapists and OTAs help pediatric patients overcome barriers to learning, allowing them to reach their full educational potential. The result is a more confident, independent and successful student in the classroom. While many pediatric occupational therapy positions require a master’s degree and national licensure, many employers are interested in hiring OT assistants with an associate degree and the skills necessary to support treatment under qualified supervision. In as little as 18 months, you could be working in a collaborative environment to assess children’s needs, develop therapy plans and set goals with healthcare professionals and educators. OT jobs are among the highest in demand nationally, with between 2022 and 2032. , like our degree path at St. Louis College of Health Careers, allows students to gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience through rigorous curriculum offerings led by experienced faculty. Discover associate OT programs at St. Louis College of Health Careers and gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience with rigorous curriculum offerings led by experienced faculty. Apply online today or call 866-529-2070 to learn more.

What Is Home Health Nursing and How Can You Become a Home Health Nurse?

Home health nursing is a nursing specialty in which LVN or RN nurses provide comprehensive, one-on-one treatment to patients in their own homes instead of at a medical facility. They specifically treat the elderly, critically ill, disabled or those recovering from surgery, injuries or an accident. If you want a medical career where you get to provide personalized care to a few select patients in a more intimate environment, then becoming a home health nurse may be a great choice for you. To be a home health nurse, you need to be proficient in nursing assessments, wound care, medication management, therapeutic guidance and other clinical skills. You also must be able to make quick decisions and adapt to changing situations, especially since you won’t be working in close proximity to any colleagues. These are essential to ensure you provide safe and effective care while operating outside of the hospital or other typical medical settings. Excellent communication skills are also crucial. Home health nurses need to clearly explain treatment plans and build trust with patients and their families, showing understanding and compensation so they know you’ll be with them every step of the way. Yes, home health nurses can pursue advanced practice roles, such as becoming a clinical nurse specialist or a nurse practitioner, with further education and certification. The .

How Does Geriatric Care Differ From Other Healthcare Professions?

Geriatric care professionals are trained individuals who provide specialized care and support to the elderly population. They work in various facilities that cater to the unique needs of older adults, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospices, home care agencies and hospitals. They provide in-home assistance, medical monitoring and companionship for seniors who wish to age in place. Unlike general nursing or other healthcare roles, geriatric care requires a deep understanding of the physiological, psychological and social changes that occur with aging specifically. Professionals in this field will focus on improving the health and well-being of older adults, acquiring specialized knowledge about diseases, conditions and syndromes prevalent among older patients. Those in geriatric benefit from a holistic approach to care that nurtures not just the physical health of older patients but also their mental, emotional and social well-being. The goal of geriatric care can be both interventional and preventative. Professionals in this field work hard to help older adults maintain their independence and functionality by proactively managing their health. Another contrast with other healthcare professions is patient interactions. While other nurses mostly have short-term relationships with patients, especially those in critical care settings, geriatric care nurses often form long-term relationships with patients, as many elderly individuals require ongoing support and comfort for chronic conditions as they reach the end of their lives. The average annual salary for a geriatric nurse is . While only a general nursing degree is required to work in geriatric care, specialized certifications or additional education in geriatric care can enhance your skills and career prospects. While nurses can receive specialized training for geriatric nursing, there are some innate personalities and temperament characteristics that make some nurses particularly well suited to geriatric care. These positions can feel tedious and may require a higher degree of constant vigilance compared to other types of nursing (especially in memory care settings or with patients who have a high fall risk or incontinence). Compassion and real empathy for the elderly can be extremely beneficial for nurses in these settings. The emotional and physical drain of these positions is one of the reasons geriatric nurses are on the higher end of the compensation spectrum for nursing. St. Louis College of Health Careers will thoroughly train you for a career in geriatric care as well as prepare you for a career in other healthcare settings. Our rigorous and insightful course offerings are designed to instill critical thinking and reasoning skills so you can provide personalized patient care in any environment. or call 866-529-2070 today to learn more about our programs and how you can open the doors to your desired career path today.

Which Program Is More Challenging, Nursing or Respiratory Therapy?

Nurses and respiratory therapists work together in critical care. Both professionals must be capable of rapid and informed decision-making, as they need to respond quickly to emergencies and make crucial decisions regarding the best course of action for the patient’s health. While they have similarities, nursing and respiratory therapy ultimately offer starkly different paths for prospective students, especially in their educational requirements. Education options for nurses, which range from – equips individuals with the skills to diagnose, treat and manage patients with respiratory conditions or those in active respiratory distress. Ultimately, both programs will be rigorous – with one offering a broad medical education and the other focused on a specific subset of patient care. Because many nurses care for a more general population of patients, they need to have a deep understanding of multiple medical specialties, be capable of filling a variety of roles in healthcare settings and be able to adapt quickly to changing situations. A patient’s life may depend on their nurse’s critical thinking skills, as nurses are relied upon to assess patients, identify any number of potential complications and implement appropriate interventions on a case-by-case basis. Many of the challenges of being a nurse also apply to respiratory therapists, but while nurses need to be knowledgeable of countless conditions, the latter needs to be an expert specifically in cardiopulmonary issues, particularly lung function. Respiratory therapists need to possess in-depth knowledge of the respiratory system, lung diseases and various treatment modalities. Understanding complex pulmonary conditions and staying updated on advancements in respiratory care is crucial to helping patients breathe. Respiratory therapists often work with critically ill patients who may require life-saving interventions, such as mechanical ventilation. The responsibility of managing ventilators and adjusting settings to optimize patient outcomes is a significant challenge because, if not done correctly, patients could easily lose their lives. A thorough education will prepare you for whichever medical career you choose. Start your educational journey today with a school that understands the necessity of a comprehensive yet flexible education. St. Louis College of Health Careers’ degrees are tailored to give students the expertise they need to diagnose a patient’s condition, plan and implement a treatment plan and evaluate the results. We’ll teach the skills and knowledge you need to pass relevant certification exams and enter your chosen profession. Call 866-529-2070 today to learn more about our course offerings and start your application.

Essential Skills Respiratory Therapists Should Possess

Respiratory therapists evaluate and treat a wide range of respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory distress syndrome. They work closely with medical teams to develop and implement treatment plans, administer medications and operate medical equipment such as ventilators and oxygen therapy devices. You’ll need to obtain at least an in respiratory therapy for those seeking supervisory roles as respiratory therapists. Receiving credentials as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) can broaden your job prospects and will make you a more attractive job candidate to many Missouri healthcare employers. You can also pursue certifications in specialized areas such as neonatal or pediatric care. The headliner in the respiratory therapist’s tool bag is undoubtedly the ventilator. Ventilators push air into the lungs of patients who are having difficulty breathing on their own. The need to adjust ventilators and monitor patients on ventilators for signs of distress makes respiratory therapists vital specialists in all types of critical care settings. Some liquid medicines are formulated to be converted into a mist that can be inhaled by patients. These medications are, unsurprisingly, designed to be administered directly into lungs, often for the treatment of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Respiratory therapists should be highly skilled in properly dosing and administering nebulizer treatments, as well as teaching patients how to properly use at-home versions of the treatment. Testing lung function is a basic early step in accurately diagnosing the respiratory issues of patients seeking care. Respiratory therapists perform these tests using PFT devices, which allow them to accurately measure a patient’s ability to breathe in and release air. Another tool, the plethysmograph, measures lung volume. Respiratory therapists operate these devices and interpret the results, providing a critical diagnostic link between the patient and the physician. Certain conditions lead to mucus build-up in the lungs. Devices such as percussors and vibrators are used to perform chest physiotherapy, helping to loosen and remove secretions from the respiratory tract. The therapist may also use postural drainage techniques, positioning the patient in specific ways to facilitate mucus removal. For patients unable to clear their airways, RTs use suction devices. These can be vital in emergency situations or post-operative care when patients might have excess secretions or foreign matter blocking their airways. These devices are used to monitor the concentration of gases (like carbon dioxide) in patients’ exhaled air and the oxygen saturation in the blood, respectively. By providing real-time data, they allow RTs to adjust treatments and respond to emergencies swiftly. In certain emergencies, maintaining an open airway is critical. Tools such as endotracheal tubes, laryngoscopes and bronchoscopes can be used to either establish an airway or to visualize and examine the bronchial passages.

What Are Clinical Rotations and Why are They Important in Medical School?

Medical school is often a transformative journey for aspiring nurses and physicians, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful professionals in the healthcare industry. Clinical rotations are a key aspect of a medical school student’s education — allowing them to step out of the classroom and immerse themselves in real-world healthcare settings. During a student’s medical school years, they will go through a series of clinical rotations, each focusing on a specific medical field. These rotations aim to provide the student with a well-rounded and comprehensive clinical experience to help ensure they gain a thorough understanding of various aspects of patient care. From hands-on experience to exposure to numerous medical specialties, clinical rotations play a pivotal role in preparing medical students for the ups and downs of medical practice while bridging the gap between theory and practice. Clinical rotations, also known as clerkships, are a vital component of . They serve as a comfortable, low-risk transition between the learning environment of the classroom and the practical applications found in any healthcare setting (i.e., hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities). During clinical rotations, students will gain firsthand experience in diagnosing and treating patients and participating in patient care — all under the supervision of experienced registered nurses, other licensed healthcare professionals and physicians. Clinical rotations vary in length depending on the student’s and the specialty they are pursuing. Typically, each clinical rotation can last anywhere from four to 12 weeks. The duration may differ between specialties, with some rotations being shorter and others more extended depending on curriculum requirements. For like internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics and obstetrics-gynecology, clinical rotations may last anywhere between eight to 12 weeks. These longer rotations allow students to delve deep into the specialty and gain a thorough understanding of its complexities. Additionally, extended rotations give medical school students more time to develop meaningful relationships with patients and healthcare teams, allowing for a more enriching learning experience. tend to be shorter and usually last about four to eight weeks. With elective rotations, students have the freedom to choose specialties that interest them. These rotations are an opportunity to explore various medical fields and identify areas of interest to help them determine their specialization in the future. While each rotation may have a different timeline, together they form a cohesive and invaluable part of the medical school journey toward becoming a competent and compassionate healthcare professional. Clinical rotations provide students with direct patient interactions, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life medical situations. By actively participating in patient care, they learn how to communicate effectively with patients, demonstrate empathy and understand the psychosocial aspects of healthcare, including a patient-centered approach to medicine. Clinical rotations are designed to expose students to a wide range of medical specialties and subspecialties. From internal medicine and surgery to pediatrics and obstetrics, clinical rotations allow them to explore various fields and discover areas of interest and passion. Clinical rotations give students the chance to work closely with attending physicians, residents and other healthcare specialists. Through these natural interactions, they can develop professional relationships and build a professional network within the medical community. Clinical rotations offer a platform for students to enhance their critical thinking and clinical reasoning abilities. They learn to analyze complex medical cases, interpret diagnostic tests and make informed decisions about patient management. Clinical rotations emphasize the importance of professionalism and ethical conduct in medical practice, including patient confidentiality, informed consent and respecting cultural and individual differences. Are you eager to step into the dynamic and fast-paced world of healthcare but are certain the time investment, high cost and academic rigor of medical school isn’t right for you? tailored to your needs. With our programs, you can study at your own pace and acquire essential hands-on experience without the need to spend nearly a decade or more in medical school and residencies. We understand that everyone’s journey to a sustainable and fulfilling healthcare career is unique, which is why our offerings cater to various interests and goals within the healthcare industry. we have available on our website. If you have any questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at 866-529-2070.

Strategies and Tips to Prepare for Healthcare Certification Exams

Earning a healthcare certification is a significant achievement, as it not only validates your knowledge and skills but also opens doors to rewarding in the healthcare industry. However, preparing for certification exams can be an overwhelming and tedious process. That’s why it is crucial to develop effective and practical strategies that can help you prepare for your healthcare certification exams. Remember that every student’s learning journey is unique, so stay positive and find study methods that work best for you. There are a truly diverse array of healthcare certifications and licenses available to workers in all levels of healthcare. Many of the programs at St. Louis College of Health Careers are specifically tailored to give students the knowledge and tools they need to sit for and pass their certification exams. While not every healthcare career requires passage of a certification exam, obtaining an education and certificate in a specific area of medicine can open career doors and make you a more attractive job candidate to employers. Explore the healthcare certifications that align with your career goals by speaking with one of our at St. Louis College of Health Careers. We can explain your options and help you understand the career prospects for professionals who earn different types of certifications or licensure. Enrolling at the St. Louis College of Health Careers in Missouri not only grants you entry to our , including essential resources designed to support your academic journey while helping you balance work and personal commitments. From personalized mentorships to academic tools, our team of academic advisors are here to equip you with the resources you need. Learn more about the healthcare programs we offer by or contacting us at 866-529-2070.

What Are the Most In-Demand Healthcare Professions?

Advancements in medical technology combined with an aging population has increased demand for skilled healthcare workers. Learning about the top in-demand healthcare support roles may be a smart first step if you’re considering pursuing a but aren’t interested in eight or more years of formal education. Whether you’re passionate about patient care or medical administration, there is a healthcare profession that aligns with your unique interests and goals. From medical practitioners to allied health specialists, a career in healthcare offers opportunities for growth, job stability and the chance to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. play a crucial role in providing patient care, coordinating treatment plans and educating patients about their health conditions, medications and self-care techniques. The demand for registered nurses is consistently high due to the growing population and the need for skilled healthcare professionals in various medical settings (i.e., medical clinics, hospitals, schools, home care, etc.). Specialized RNs, such as those in critical care, oncology and gerontology, are particularly in demand as they offer expertise in managing complex medical conditions. are crucial members of the healthcare team, providing essential nursing care and support to patients under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians. LPNs are trained in a variety of nursing procedures, including inserting catheters, giving injections and performing basic diagnostic tests. LPNs often work in long-term care facilities, nursing homes and rehabilitation centers where they provide continuous care to patients with chronic conditions or those in need of extended medical support. Their dedication to patient care and ability to perform essential nursing tasks make them valuable assets in various healthcare environments. Medical and health services managers, also known as or healthcare executives, oversee the operations of healthcare facilities. They handle resource allocation, including staffing, equipment and facilities management in order to meet the needs of patients while maintaining cost-effectiveness and organizational sustainability. As the healthcare industry continues to expand, there is a growing need for skilled administrators who can manage and optimize healthcare facilities. Physical therapists provide rehabilitative care to patients with injuries, disabilities, chronic conditions and those recovering from surgeries. They play a critical role in improving patient mobility, managing pain and enhancing a patient’s overall quality of life. With an increasing preference for rehabilitation and non-invasive treatments, both physical therapists and are in high demand. Physical therapists may specialize in a number of areas, such as orthopedics, sports medicine, neurology and geriatrics. Each specialization caters to different patient populations, offering diverse opportunities within the field. Occupational therapists work with individuals who have physical, developmental or cognitive challenges to improve their ability to perform daily activities. They play a vital role in helping patients regain independence and function. Occupational therapists work in a range of settings, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers and home care. They address various conditions, from helping children with developmental delays to supporting adults recovering from injuries or managing chronic illnesses. The demand for occupational therapists and is rising, particularly as healthcare shifts towards a holistic approach that emphasizes patient-centered care and improving daily functioning. are vital members of the healthcare team, providing both administrative and clinical support to physicians and other healthcare professionals. They play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of medical facilities and enhancing patient care. The demand for medical assistants is on the rise. Their versatility and ability to multitask make them valuable assets in medical settings, including hospitals, clinics and private practices. For many, a career as a medical assistant serves as a steppingstone to other healthcare professions. It provides a valuable entry point into the healthcare industry, offering practical experience and exposure to various medical specialties. Many medical assistants choose to further their education and pursue advanced careers as registered nurses, physician assistants or other allied health professionals. specialize in treating patients with breathing difficulties and cardiopulmonary disorders. They administer treatments and therapies to improve lung function and manage respiratory conditions. Respiratory therapists work in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, emergency rooms, intensive care units, sleep disorder clinics and home care. Their expertise is instrumental in addressing a wide range of respiratory issues across patient populations — especially as respiratory illnesses and chronic respiratory conditions become more prevalent. At , we are committed to equipping students with the knowledge and expertise required to thrive in the ever-changing healthcare industry. We take pride in offering a diverse array of , including associate, bachelor, master and diploma programs. These programs are carefully designed to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare field and enable our students to become proficient in their respective disciplines. Our dedicated team is eager to guide you through our programs and help you work towards a successful and fulfilling . Take the first step today by calling us at 866-529-2070.

Ways to Maximize Funding to Pay for College

Are you interested in pursuing a college degree but the thought of funding your education is making you second guess your dreams? You’re not alone. Many people get discouraged from getting a higher education because they don’t think they can afford it or simply aren’t willing to take out loans. Despite what some people would have you believe, going back to school doesn’t have to leave you with long-term debt. Not every school or program carries the same high cost. Researching your options and shopping around may help you identify more affordable alternatives that will help you reach your career goals. There are also a variety of resources available to students of all types of backgrounds and socioeconomic means. These resources can help you defray the personal financial cost of earning a certificate or degree. It’s important to understand that qualifying for many of these benefits does require effort and legwork on behalf of students – but there can be significant payoff if you’re willing to invest the time and energy. One of the most effective ways to secure funding for college is through grants. Federal, state and institutional grants are available to eligible students based on financial need. The first step is to complete the to determine your eligibility for various grant programs. Grants, unlike loans, don’t require repayment, making them an attractive option for students looking for alternatives to traditional student loans. Students interested in pursuing grants need to carefully read the fine print and qualification requirements, as grants will have application deadlines and eligibility limitations. Scholarships provide another avenue for reducing college expenses. Many organizations, institutions and foundations offer scholarships based on academic achievement, talents, skills or specific demographic factors. Research and apply for scholarships that align with your strengths and interests, as these can significantly offset tuition costs. Explore online scholarship databases, consult with your school’s and reach out to community organizations to discover available opportunities. Don’t overlook smaller, local scholarships, as they can still make a substantial impact on your finances. Consider working part-time or during breaks to contribute toward your college expenses. On-campus jobs, such as working at the library, administrative offices or campus events, often provide flexible schedules because these employers will have an intimate understanding of your academic commitments. Additionally, part-time jobs off-campus can help you gain valuable work experience while earning money. Just remember to strike a balance between work and academics to ensure that your studies remain a priority. Starting your college journey at a community college can be a financially savvy decision. Community colleges typically have lower tuition rates, allowing you to save money during your first two years of study. Many community colleges also have articulation agreements with four-year institutions, which ensure that your credits transfer seamlessly, allowing you to earn a bachelor’s degree at a discount. This approach gives you an opportunity to adjust to college life, explore different fields of study and make an informed decision about your major without accruing excessive debt. When considering colleges, factor in the cost of attendance and the potential return on investment. Compare tuition rates, fees and the availability of financial aid packages offered by different institutions. Remember that higher-priced institutions may not always guarantee a better education or career prospects. Evaluate the reputation, quality of programs and job placement rates of prospective schools. Choosing a more affordable school that aligns with your academic goals can significantly reduce your financial burden. Developing strong budgeting skills is essential for getting the most out of your limited resources during college. Create a realistic budget that includes all your expenses, such as tuition, textbooks, housing, transportation and personal items. Track your spending, seek out cost-saving measures and prioritize your needs over wants. Take advantage of student discounts, buy used textbooks, cook meals at home and consider sharing housing expenses with roommates. By adopting smart financial habits, you can minimize unnecessary expenses and make the most of your available funds. Keep in mind that lean college years can be temporary, especially if you sacrifice non-essential luxuries today to avoid taking on excessive long-term debt. SLCHC offers a diverse catalog of healthcare programs that can be completed on your schedule. We also help you access various resources, such as grants, scholarships and federal student loans. Learn more about our institutionally accredited and how they can help you land the healthcare career of your dreams by calling 866-529-2070.

What Do You Need to Know Before Graduating with a Degree in Nursing?

Graduating with a degree in nursing is a major accomplishment. It proves you’re a skilled, dedicated and compassionate individual ready to land your first nursing job and make a difference in the lives of many patients. However, obtaining a degree doesn’t mean you’re done learning. While a comprehensive nursing program combining both theory and hands-on practice can help prepare you for your future career, it provides only a glimpse of insight into your everyday responsibilities as a nurse. As a new graduate, transitioning into your first job as a nurse can be overwhelming. But don’t be discouraged – there are several steps you can take to make the transition smoother and ensure success in your new role. If you’re a new nurse, having a support network is crucial to being successful in your new role. Nursing is a demanding profession that requires not only technical skills but also emotional intelligence and empathy. A support network consisting of former classmates, professors and mentors can provide a safe space to share concerns, seek advice and process the emotional toll that caring for patients can take. From a more practical perspective, a support network can offer resources and guidance on navigating the healthcare system, managing patient care and handling workplace challenges. Transitioning from college to a career you were trained for is rarely smooth, especially if it involves nursing sick patients back to health. Remember that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable in your new environment and to not know everything right away. It takes time and experience to develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your nursing career. Give yourself grace, be patient with yourself and learn from your mistakes. Surround yourself with supportive colleagues and mentors who can guide and encourage you throughout your journey as a nurse. One technique you can use (and perhaps have already been using) to learn new concepts as a nurse is the method. This approach involves observing someone else perform a task or procedure, doing the task or procedure yourself with the help and supervision of a more experienced nurse, and then teaching someone else how to do it. This method reinforces your learning and also helps to build your confidence and competence as a nurse. One of the major advantages of becoming a nurse is the job security and diversity that comes with it. Regardless of how bad the economy might get, patients, doctors and medical facilities will always need and rely on nurses. This allows you to explore different career options to find your niche in the nursing profession. Nursing is a vast field with a wide range of career paths, including emergency nursing, critical care, pediatric nursing, oncology nursing and many others. Exploring different career options can help you determine which area you are most passionate about and where you can thrive. So, if your first nursing job isn’t exactly what you’ve envisioned, that’s okay. As long as you’re gaining valuable experience and becoming confident in your nursing skills, you can use this time to explore different career options and find your true passion in the field. Although emotionally and financially rewarding, working as a nurse can quickly lead to burnout With additional stressors like the COVID-19 pandemic and , you may find yourself working long hours with little downtime and struggling to find a healthy work-life balance. That’s why it’s essential to prioritize self-care regardless of where you are in your nursing career. Taking breaks throughout the day, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and engaging in physical activity can help prevent burnout and maintain your overall health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek support from colleagues, friends or a therapist who can help you manage the emotional toll that comes with working in healthcare. Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish, but rather necessary to provide the best care possible for your patients. At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we know becoming a nurse is an equally thrilling and challenging task. If you’re considering a career in nursing but you’re not sure if it’s the right fit for you, consider enrolling in our fully accredited program. This comprehensive four-semester long program is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) and begin your career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Our experienced faculty members will guide you through a curriculum that combines classroom instruction, hands-on lab experience and clinical rotations in a variety of healthcare settings. To enroll or learn more about our , call our St. Louis campus at 866-529-2070.