For licensed vocational nurses (LVN) and paramedics, finding a path to continue their education and transition to a career as a registered nurse (RN) can be difficult. San Jacinto College’s associate degree nursing (ADN) mobility program is designed specifically for these medical professionals. The program considers work schedules, builds on professional experience, and delivers an accelerated curriculum utilizing clinicals, class time, and a state-of-the-art simulation center.
ADN Mobility Program Director Shiela Ford says that students entering the program need to be self-motivated, disciplined, and willing to take advantage of resources the program offers. “We are one of the few programs that offer an accelerated RN program like this,” said Ford. “In three semesters, our students are prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). This program takes a lot of outside discipline by our students, but it’s very rewarding.”
For the last three years, Angelese Bentley has been a practicing LVN working mainly in geriatrics, but recently starting working in pediatric home health. With goals to pursue pediatric critical care, Bentley knows that completing her RN is another step to further her aspirations. “I feel like I’m already a step ahead even just as an LVN,” said Bentley. “I feel better prepared during clincials. Employers feel confident knowing that students and employees came from the San Jacinto College nursing program.”
Another part of the program’s success is the faculty. “Our faculty take the rigor of the program just as seriously as the students do,” said Ford. “We provide assistance with time management, test taking, and study tips to help students stay on task. We also encourage our students to continue their education. San Jacinto College has transfer agreements with several universities which create seamless transitions for ADN students to further their education at four-year institutions.”
Ford adds that patient care is at the core of the training program. “We have a heart for the students, but we also have a heart for the patients that they’ll be taking care of. Industry tells us without a doubt that the San Jacinto College nursing students are making a difference.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statics, the average salary difference between an LVN and RN in Texas is $24,130 annually. RNs in the state of Texas can earn an average of $67,860 annually.
For more information about the San Jacinto College and mobility and other available nursing programs, visit sanjac.edu/career/nursing.
Andrea Vasquez