Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Beech Grove IN

How to Choose a Nursing Program near Beech Grove Indiana

Beech Grove IN surgical nurse assisting surgeonSelecting the right nursing program near Beech Grove IN may seem like a challenging endeavor, especially if you aren’t sure what to look for in a good degree program. As you may presently know, in order to practice as a registered nurse, you need to receive the necessary education and training to become licensed. So it is vitally important that you research and determine the qualifications of each program you are thinking about before enrolling in your ultimate selection. Unfortunately, too many prospective students base their selection solely on the price of tuition and the distance of the school. Going with the least expensive program or the one that is nearest to your house is no doubt not the most ideal way to select a nursing program. There are many crucial additional things to explore before you make a decision where to enroll in classes. But before we explore that checklist, let’s first discuss what the role of a registered nurse is in our medical system, together with the nursing degree alternatives that are offered.

Registered Nurse Job Functions

Beech Grove IN Neonatal Nurse with babyRegistered nurses are the largest occupation in the medical delivery system. RNs practice in many different medical environments, namely Beech Grove IN hospitals, family practices, outpatient clinics, nursing homes and even schools. Their primary role is to help doctors in the treatment of their patients. However, the particular duties of a registered nurse will be dependent on their job or area of expertise as well as where they work. Some of the responsibilities of an RN may include:

  • Administering medications
  • Overseeing patients
  • Performing physical examinations
  • Managing care
  • Managing LPNs, LVNs and nurse aides
  • Instructing patients and their families
  • Keeping health records and charts

Nurses with a higher degree may have more complex job duties and responsibilities. Nurse practitioners (NP), for instance, must hold a Master’s Degree and commonly work more independently than their RN counterparts. They can deliver primary or specialty care services, prescribe medications, and diagnose and treat routine illnesses or injuries.

Nursing Degree Options

There are multiple degrees offered to become a registered nurse. And to become an RN, a student must attend an accredited school and program. A student can acquire a qualifying degree in just two years, or advance to achieve a graduate degree for a total of six years. Following are some short explanations of the nursing degrees that are offered in the Beech Grove IN area.

  • Associates. The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is typically a two year program offered by community colleges. It readies graduates for an entry level position in nursing in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics or nursing homes. Many utilize the ADN as an entry into nursing and subsequently obtain a higher degree.
  • Bachelor’s. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) supplies more comprehensive training than the ADN. It is normally a four year program offered at colleges and universities. Licensed RNs may be eligible to complete an accelerated program based on their prior training or degree and professional experience (RN to BSN). Those applying to the program may desire to advance to a clinical or administrative position, or be more competitive in the job market.
  • Master’s. The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is generally a two year program after obtaining the BSN. The MSN program offers specialization training, for instance to become a nurse practitioner or focus on administration, management or teaching.

After a graduating student has acquired one of the above degrees, she or he must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) so as to become licensed. Various other requirements for licensing can vary from state to state, so don’t forget to get in touch with the Indiana board of nursing for any state mandates.

LVN and LPN Programs

Beech Grove IN LPN assisting patientThere are principally two scholastic accreditations offered that provide training to become either an LPN or an LVN. The one that may be completed in the shortest amount of time, commonly about 1 year, is the certificate or diploma course. The next alternative is to obtain a Practical Nursing Associate Degree. These programs are more comprehensive in nature than the diploma alternative and usually require 2 years to finish. The advantage of Associate Degrees, aside from supplying a higher credential and more extensive training, are that they provide more transferable credit toward a Bachelor’s Degree in nursing. No matter the kind of credential you pursue, it should be Indiana approved and accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or any other national accrediting organization. The NLNAC warrants that the course of study properly prepares students to become Practical Nurses, and that the majority of graduates pass the 50 state required NCLEX-PN licensing exam.

CNA Courses

Unlike some other licensed nurses, certified nursing assistants do not need to obtain a college degree. CNA training can be received at Beech Grove IN area community colleges or at vocational or trade schools. The length of the instruction can take anywhere from 1 to three months, leading to either a certificate or a diploma. Within the 1987 Nursing Home Reform Act, students are mandated to have at least 75 hours of instruction, 16 of which have to be clinical or “hands-on” training hours. Keep in mind that this is the minimal amount of training directed and every state has its own prerequisites. So it’s necessary to make sure that the program you enroll in not only meets the federal requirements, but likewise those for Indiana or the state where you will be practicing. One recommendation is to get in touch with the health or nursing board for your state to make sure that the training course is state approved. In addition to the training, each state mandates a passing score on a competency test for certification. Depending on the state, there may be additional requirements as well.

Questions to Ask Nursing Colleges

geriatric nurse with elderly patient in Beech Grove INOnce you have determined which nursing degree to enroll in, and whether to attend your classes on campus near Beech Grove IN or on the internet, you can use the following pointers to start narrowing down your options. As you probably realize, there are numerous nursing schools and colleges throughout Indiana and the United States. So it is important to reduce the number of schools to choose from in order that you will have a manageable list. As we previously discussed, the location of the school as well as the price of tuition are undoubtedly going to be the primary two things that you will consider. But as we also stressed, they should not be your only qualifiers. So before making your final choice, use the following questions to see how your pick measures up to the field.

  • Accreditation. It’s a good idea to make sure that the degree or certificate program along with the school is accredited by a U.S. Department of Education acknowledged accrediting agency. In addition to helping verify that you receive an excellent education, it may help in obtaining financial aid or student loans, which are oftentimes not provided in Beech Grove IN for non-accredited schools.
  • Licensing Preparation. Licensing prerequisites for registered nurses differ from state to state. In all states, a passing score is needed on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) together with graduation from an accredited school. Many states require a certain number of clinical hours be completed, as well as the passing of additional tests. It’s essential that the school you are attending not only delivers an excellent education, but also prepares you to comply with the minimum licensing requirements for Indiana or the state where you will be working.
  • Reputation. Look at internet rating services to see what the reviews are for each of the schools you are looking into. Ask the accrediting organizations for their reviews too. In addition, get in touch with the Indiana school licensing authority to determine if there are any complaints or compliance issues. Finally, you can speak with some Beech Grove IN healthcare organizations you’re interested in working for after graduation and ask what their opinions are of the schools as well.
  • Graduation and Job Placement Rates. Find out from the RN colleges you are considering what their graduation rates are as well as how long on average it takes students to complete their programs. A low graduation rate may be an indication that students were dissatisfied with the program and dropped out. It’s also essential that the schools have high job placement rates. A high rate will not only confirm that the school has a favorable reputation within the Beech Grove IN healthcare community, but that it also has the network of relationships to assist students attain a position.
  • Internship Programs. The most effective way to get experience as a registered nurse is to work in a clinical setting. Virtually all nursing degree programs require a specific number of clinical hours be completed. Many states have minimum clinical hour mandates for licensing too. Find out if the schools have a working relationship with Beech Grove IN hospitals, clinics or labs and assist with the placement of students in internships.

Nursing Online Programs

woman attending nursing school online in Beech Grove INAttending nursing colleges online is becoming a more favored way to receive instruction and earn a nursing degree. Some schools will require attendance on campus for part of the training, and nearly all programs require a specific amount of clinical rotation hours performed in a local healthcare facility. But since the remainder of the training can be accessed online, this method may be a more convenient solution to finding the time to attend college for some Beech Grove IN students. Concerning tuition, many online degree programs are cheaper than other on campus options. Even supplemental expenses such as for commuting and study materials can be minimized, helping to make education more economical. And many online programs are accredited by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for BSN and MSN degrees. Therefore if your work and household obligations have left you with little time to work toward your academic goals, perhaps an online nursing program will make it easier to fit a degree into your busy schedule.

Attending a Nursing School near Beech Grove IN?

Perhaps you have already made your decision to attend a Nursing Program in the greater Beech Grove Indiana area.  If that is the case, then the following information may prove to be both educational and useful regarding the location of your future Alma Mater.

Beech Grove, Indiana

The city's elevation, measured in feet above sea level, ranges from 766 (the Beech Creek waterway, where it is crossed by South 9th Avenue) to 845 (the northeastern portion of the Amtrak railroad property). It is higher than that of downtown Indianapolis.

The city contains several small non-navigable waterways. Beech Creek, McFarland Creek, Pullman Creek, and Victory Run all feed into Lick Creek, which (after leaving the city limits) feeds into the West Fork of the White River.

The city is located within parts of four of Marion County's townships. In order of city land size, those townships are Perry, Franklin, Center, and Warren. In order of city population, the list is Perry, Center, and Franklin; the Warren Township section is uninhabited railroad land.

Select the Right Nursing College near Beech Grove IN

Beech Grove IN nursing studentChoosing the right registered nursing program is arguably the most critical phase to beginning a new career in the healthcare industry. There are many variables that you should take into account when selecting a nursing school. These aspects will be prioritized differently contingent on your current career objectives, obligations, and economic situation. As we have stressed within this post, it is critical that you select an RN college and a degree program that are both accredited and have excellent reputations within the medical community. By utilizing our checklist of qualifying questions, you will be able to produce a short list of schools to pick from so that you can make your ultimate selection. And with the appropriate degree and training, combined with your dedication and drive to succeed, you can become a licensed registered nurse in Beech Grove IN.

More Awesome Locations in Indiana

  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Mentone IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Milroy IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Russiaville IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Peru IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Reynolds IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Lake Village IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Waldron IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Nappanee IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Crane IN
  • Nursing Schools Near Me | How to Become an RN – Celestine IN
  •  

     

    The location could not be found.

     

    Business Results 1 - 10 of 19

    Brooke Knoll Village
    3 Reviews
    Rehabilitation Center
    Phone:
    1108 Kingwood Dr, Avon, IN 46123

    Hooverwood Indianapolis Jewish Home Inc
    1 Reviews
    Retirement Homes, Rehabilitation Center
    Phone:
    7001 Hoover Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260

    Madison Health Care Center
    2 Reviews
    Rehabilitation Center, Occupational Therapy, Retirement Homes
    Phone:
    7465 Madison Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46227

    Prairie Lakes Health Campus
    2 Reviews
    Retirement Homes, Skilled Nursing
    Phone:
    9730 Prairie Lakes Blvd E, Noblesville, IN 46060

    Briarwood Health & Rehabilitation Center
    1 Reviews
    Skilled Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy
    Phone:
    3640 Central Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46205

    University Heights Health & Living Community
    2 Reviews
    Retirement Homes
    Phone:
    1380 E County Line Rd S, Indianapolis, IN 46227

    The Springs of Mooresville
    2 Reviews
    Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living Facilities, Physical Therapy
    Phone:
    302 N Johnson Rd, Mooresville, IN 46158

    Meadow Lakes
    3 Reviews
    Assisted Living Facilities, Hospice, Skilled Nursing
    Phone:
    200 Meadow Lake Dr, Mooresville, IN 46158

    A Place for Mom
    1 Reviews
    Memory Care, Assisted Living Facilities, Skilled Nursing
    Phone:
    Indianapolis, IN 46204

    Cumberland Trace
    2 Reviews
    Rehabilitation Center
    Phone:
    1925 Reeves Rd, Plainfield, IN 46168