The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) plays a vital role in the health team concept and must have a sound background in basic health sciences and technical skills. Practical nursing is the basic level of nursing that applies principles of therapeutic, rehabilitative, and preventive care for people of all ages and cultures in various stages of dependency. The LPN practices nursing with the guidance of a registered nurse or physician in a variety of health care settings.

At OCtech, practical nursing students are given a knowledge base through courses and content that includes preparation in general academics, nursing theory and practice, and biophysical and social sciences. Classroom study includes basic nursing concepts and patient-care related subjects, including anatomy, physiology, medical/surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, gerontology, nursing management, mental health concepts, pharmacology, and nutrition. Students receive their clinical experience in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, physicians' offices, and other community agencies. There is also a focus on computer use in nursing courses. Throughout this curriculum, components, such as caring, integrity, responsibility, and dedication are emphasized. It is the student's responsibility to contribute a mature attitude, possess high ethical standards and a willingness to work.

The Practical Nursing program at OCtech has full accreditation by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc. (NLNAC, Inc.), 61 Broadway - 33rd Floor, New York City, NY 10006; telephone: 800-669-1656, extension: 153, or 212-363-5555; fax: 212-812-0390; website: www.nlnac.org. The program is also approved by the State Board of Nursing for South Carolina. Upon completion of the twelve-month program, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses. Upon successful completion of this examination, the graduate will be designated as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Qualified applicants will be selected for admission to the Practical Nursing program based on a competitive rating scale. The Admissions Office will provide specific program information and additional admission requirements. Students are enrolled in the Practical Nursing program in the fall semester only.

CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK
All direct caregivers must obtain a criminal record check as designated by clinical agencies. Persons convicted of or pled no contest to, including, but not limited to, child or adult abuse, sexual assault, assault with a deadly weapon, neglect, or mistreatment or misappropriation of property, are not permitted to work as direct caregivers. More stringent requirements are often enforced by individual clinical agencies. Students who have convictions as described above will not be allowed to attend clinical agencies. Clinical agencies reserve the right to deny privileges for convictions other than stated. Based on this information, students should be aware of the consequences of a positive criminal record check, which may include dismissal from the program. Students who are impacted by this constraint should consider career counseling.

NOTE: Students who have prior convictions of a crime (excluding minor traffic violations) and/or have had disciplinary action against his/her license may not be granted the privilege to write the State Board of Nursing Examination unless this matter is cleared with the Board. Those affected by this should contact the State Board of Nursing clarification. The Board of Nursing Interviews each applicant individually to determine eligibility.

DISCLAIMER: This information is subject to change as new directives are received.
m the program.

An admission physical, validating physical and mental health status, CPR certification, a first aid course, and a notarized copy of the student's birth certificate are required.

Latex Allergies
Health care providers with Latex sensitivity must be aware that latex sensitivity increases with each additional exposure and there will be exposure to latex in various forms in the lab and hospital environment. If you have latex allergies, it is recommended that you consult your Health care provider regarding this medical condition for assistance with your decision about whether pursuing a career in nursing is the appropriate choice for you considering this allergy.


MAJOR IN PRACTICAL NURSING
SEMESTER CURRICULUM MODEL