Practical Nursing (PRCN) Program
Overview
The Practical Nursing (PRCN) Program at Kapi‘olani Community College is one year in length, wherein graduates of the program will receive a Certificate of Achievement; after which, graduates will be trained to work as practical nurses in long-term care facilities (working with the elderly) and in home health settings (working with children).
Certification
The Practical Nursing Program prepares graduates for the National Council of Licensure Examination for practical nurses (NCLEX-PN).
PRCN Student Handbook
All new nursing students are required to familiarize themselves with the Nursing Department policies and procedures relative to the PRCN Program as described within the PRCN Student Handbook. The handbook describes program policies relative to academics, clinical performance, uniform regulations, employment, health and safety requirements, course progression, resolving student concerns, course withdrawal and readmissions, graduation, licensure, college policies, privacy rights, financial aid, disability support services, learning resource center and nursing laboratory guidelines for faculty and students.
Qualities Needed
Important qualities of a nurse include enjoy working with and caring for people as well as being personable, reassuring, patient, compassionate, honest and reliable. Other qualities include being able to accept, give and use constructive feedback; having good manual dexterity and coordination; being able to act quickly and effectively in emergencies; being able to speak and write well; being able to work independently and within a team; and being able to deal with a variety of emotional expressions.
In order to prepare for a nursing career and program, you will need to develop a strong background in math, science and English; volunteer or work within a hospital, nursing home, clinic or other health care setting; develop good communication, computer, logical thinking and time management skills; take health-related courses; and complete prerequisite courses.
Employment Outlook
There is a demand for practical nurses in long-term care facilities and the home health settings with possible opportunities in the acute/hospital setting. The average entry-level salary is $20 per hour and with experience $28 per hour or more.
Nursing Program Career Ladder
After completing a Practical Nursing program and obtaining their practical nursing licensure, interested students may pursue the LPN-RN Transition (ANURS-LPN) Program which is for Licensed Practical Nurses who are interested in becoming a registered nurse. This program may be completed in three semesters after prerequisites are completed. For more information, click on LPN-RN Program.
As an alternative to the pathway from a practical nursing program to the LPN-RN Transition Program, interested students may pursue the Associate in Science degree in Nursing (ADN) program, wherein after completing the third semester within the ADN program, nursing students will have an opportunity to register for and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain their practical nursing licensure.
