Florida LPN School

By allied health world contributing writer
Published:  January 25th, 2010

Florida LPN Education

There are many online and campus based Florida LPN schools for someone interested in obtaining a degree in practical nursing. Most of the programs are at technical schools and community colleges and are generally one year in length. Admission into a program requires graduation from high school, or an equivalent. Some Florida LPN schools also require applicants have a physical exam. Other schools require that proof of certification as a CPR provider is required to be submitted. Some schools use the TEAE – Test of Adult Basic Education. Applicants must score appropriately on the various sections of the exam in order to be granted admission. Finally, some schools require applicants to meet with the Dean of Nursing in a semi informal interview. The educational program includes traditional school presentations as well as clinical hours performing specific tasks and skills. Subjects covered include nutrition, anatomy and physiology, nursing skills, pharmacology, etc. Clinical hours can be earned at hospitals, clinics or other nursing facilities.

Continuing education and license renewal for LPNs in Florida

Practical Nurses are required to renew their license every 2 years. The renewal process consists of submitting the completed application, including the fee, along with proof of 24 hours of continuing education. There are a couple of specific stipulations regarding the continuing education that must be earned. For instance, at least two hours of the CE must be on the prevention of medial errors. Also, before the first renewal period, the credential holder must earn one hour of CE on AIDS/HIV information. Every third renewal, licensed practical nurses are required to earn two hours of continuing education related to domestic violence. Continuing education is required to keep the credential holder current on the latest and newest techniques to aid them in better caring for their patients. Content are for the CE can include:

• Physical, behavioral, social sciences
• Legal issues related to health care
• Nursing skills and problems specific to the health care system
• Personal and professional development courses as long as they relate to patient care

LPN's in the Military

A credential holder that is in good standing and practicing as a practical nurse is entitled to maintain that credential even though they enter the military. They are not required to submit any renewal documentation nor fees for the duration of their enlistment and then six months after discharge. There is the provision that credential holders must not be practicing their profession for profit in the private sector, other wise this rule is null and void. Spouses of military personnel are also exempt from the renewal process and required fees as long as their absence from the state is due to their spouse’s military responsibilities.

Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses in Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, St. Petersburg and Orlando, Florida may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including Baptist Medical Center, Florida Hospital Orlando, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Jackson Memorial Hospital, and Memorial Regional Hospital.