Goals

The goals of the Practical Nurse program are:

• Reading and Written Communication: Students will demonstrate competency in reading and writing.
• Oral Communication: Students will demonstrate effective oral communication skills that incorporate emotional intelligence, empathy, and civility. 
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning: Students will apply critical thinking and the knowledge gained in their degree programs for better decision-making informed by:
  • Ethical Reasoning
  • Quantitative Reasoning
  • Scientific Reasoning
• Knowledge and Skills for Living in a Diverse Society: Students will respect multiple perspectives and cultural contexts when making decisions independently or as part of a team.
• Information Literacy: Students will be able to locate, evaluate, and ethically utilize reliable information, empowering them as informed and responsible citizens.
• Integration of Learning: Students will develop the ability to make connections between different academic studies and specialized professional skills leading to more informed, creative, and productive decisions in life and career.
• Educate qualified women and men to assist the professional nurse in the care of patients within the scope and limitations indicated by the accepted definition of the Licensed Practical Nurse.
• Prepare students to meet the expectations and demands of the current healthcare workforce by working collaboratively with clinical healthcare providers and other communities of interest to ensure a smooth transition from the classroom to the real-world healthcare environment.
• Provide the basis for higher education in nursing for all who desire it.
• Respond to community needs by preparing skilled practitioners.
• Provide a course of study at the college level to qualify students who wish to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN).
• Provide the Practical Nurse program curriculum as an academic entry point on the nursing career ladder.