Your Guide to Practical Nursing Pre-Reqs

Pursuing a career in practical nursing is a commendable goal that can lead to a fulfilling profession, caring for individuals in need. However, before beginning your journey, it’s essential to understand the prerequisites that will prepare you for success in a practical nursing program. Below, we outline what you need to know to get started.

What is Practical Nursing?

Practical nursing encompasses providing basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. This role is vital within the healthcare system, as practical nurses often attend to patients' everyday needs and serve as a primary point of contact for patients and their families.

As an essential part of patient care, practical nurses help bridge the gap between technical medical care and compassionate, personalized attention.

Educational Prerequisites

Before enrolling in a practical nursing program, you’ll need to meet certain educational requirements. These prerequisites typically include:

• A High School Diploma or GED: You must have completed secondary school.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR Certification: Training to handle emergencies is often required before or during enrollment.
• Pre-requisite Courses: Classes in subjects such as biology, anatomy, and physiology provide foundational knowledge essential for nursing studies.

These academic and certification requirements vary depending on the program but are generally mandatory across most practical nursing schools.

Skill Set Requirements

Practical nursing is not solely about academic qualifications or technical medical skills—it also requires key soft skills that are critical for effective care. These include:

• Strong Communication Skills: Clear, compassionate communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams is a daily requirement.
• Compassion and Empathy: A genuine concern for others is essential to give meaningful care and support.
• Attention to Detail: Small errors or oversights can have significant consequences in a healthcare setting.
• Ability to Work Under Pressure: Healthcare environments can be demanding, requiring calm and focus even in stressful situations.

By developing these skills alongside your educational qualifications, you can ensure readiness for the challenges of the profession.

Additional Considerations

Beyond the basics, many nursing programs or employers may require additional criteria such as:

• Health Screenings and Immunizations: Stay up-to-date with physical checkups and vaccinations, as they are mandatory in clinical environments.
• Background Checks: A clean criminal record is often necessary for enrollment or employment.
• Entrance Exams (e.g., TEAS): The Test of Essential Academic Skills evaluates your readiness for nursing school.

These elements build an essential foundation to ensure safety and competence in the healthcare field.

Steps to Prepare

If you’re ready to pursue your career in practical nursing, follow these steps to streamline your path:

• Research: Investigate nursing program options to identify schools with suitable prerequisites and align them with your career goals.
• Education: Take required pre-requisite courses, and if needed, refresh your knowledge in relevant subjects like biology or mathematics.
• Certify: Obtain certifications such as CPR and Basic Life Support to meet program standards.
• Gain Experience: Volunteer in healthcare settings to gain valuable exposure to medical environments and patient care.

This preparation ensures you are academically, emotionally, and mentally equipped to excel in your studies.

Preparation & Planning Are Key Steps

Pursuing a career in practical nursing requires preparation, determination, and a commitment to meet the necessary prerequisites. With the right planning, you can enter this rewarding healthcare profession and make a meaningful impact on countless lives.

Take the first step today toward a career that combines medical expertise with compassion, and get ready to join the ranks of those making a difference in the world of healthcare.

Have questions about taking the next step in your nursing journey? Please contact the nearest Lincoln Tech campus.