Practical nurses are in high demand, and states are trying to fill those important roles. In New Hampshire, for example, Gov. Chris Sununu has increased funding for practical nurse training programs across the state to keep up with the high demand for healthcare workers. This is an expansion of the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) practical nurse (PN) training program.
Prism Career Institute provides practical nurse training in Cherry Hill and West Atlantic City, NJ, as well as in Philadelphia, PA. Here, we discuss the importance of these efforts and how they can positively impact health systems in the region.
Meeting the Growing Demand for PNs
Many states across the country need more nurses. With a lack of adequate nursing staff in local hospitals and long-term care facilities, New Hampshire has put in efforts to double PN workforce programming. This investment in PN programs throughout the state will help expand the availability of qualified professionals, and in turn, address the current nursing shortage.
The efforts to fund and increase the number of students in practical nursing programs can help make going to school more affordable. With more accessible schooling, the state hopes to grow the workforce. Overall, the $2.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding can make meeting the growing demand for practical nurses possible.
More Access to PN Programs
Actively addressing the nursing shortage is likely to bring forth several benefits. With an increased number of graduates coming from nursing programs, healthcare facilities can substantially grow and thrive. This also means people can find health centers that have enough staffing to provide reliable, high-quality patient care. Additionally, with the increased drive to train nurses, the options for PN career opportunities will also expand, allowing nursing graduates to explore more positions of interest in hospitals, private clinics, outpatient care centers, government agencies, and other areas.
Practical Nursing Program Opportunities
Individuals looking to begin a career in healthcare can explore our educational programs. Prism Career Institute is a student-focused institution offering a practical nursing program, as well as a medical assistant program, across its locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The nursing program at Prism Career Institute spans 1,560 clock hours and can be completed in approximately 63 weeks for day class students or 70 weeks for weekend/evening students.
This comprehensive program prepares students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN), but it also teaches valuable skills for their future careers. These include performing clinical, laboratory, personal care, and administrative duties.
Benefits of Becoming a PN
For some people, the increased need for nurses across the country might be a good enough reason to spark an interest in becoming a PN. However, there are several additional benefits of this career choice to explore. Other reasons to consider embarking on this path include:
- Enter the workforce quickly: Healthcare is a multifaceted industry where PNs are vital across most facilities. This means you’ll likely be able to find employment quickly. Additionally, the actual duration of schooling for PNs is short compared to other occupations – a student can typically complete this type of program in 2 years or less.
- Continuing education: With a career in nursing, you’ll have many opportunities to learn new things as healthcare advancements are made. You’ll also have the chance to advance your nursing career with more education down the road if desired.
- Your job makes a difference: When you choose practical nursing, know that your job is meaningful and can even change lives. Nurses do more than just provide physical care to patients – they also offer emotional and social support, and they’re often available to comfort and communicate with families during hard times.
Become a Nurse With Help from Prism Career Institute
If you’re ready to take the leap toward a practical nursing career, consider enrolling at Prism Career Institute. Our practical nursing program will prepare you to become a PN in a short time. Our campuses in Cherry Hill and West Atlantic City, NJ, as well as in Philadelphia, PA, also offer career services along the way to ensure you have everything you need to reach your goals. To learn more about the practical nursing program at Prism Career Institute, explore our student testimonials, or contact us today.