What is 'Practical Nurse? (PN)'

Pracitcal Nurses (PNs) care for the sick, injured, convalescing and handicapped under the direction of physicians, registered nurses (RNs), and/or other healthcare practitioners. Students who successfully complete the PN program and the subsequent NCLEX-PN examination through the State Board of Nursing can practice as an entry-level PN in the United States.

Is it for you?

As a PN you will provide basic bedside care and monitor patients' vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse and respiration. PNs also keep records, assist with patient care planning, perform first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and sterile and isolation procedures. It is a career in the healthcare field that offers personal satisfaction and job stability.

Jobs and Salary expectations

PNs may work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, patients' homes, educational institutions, camps, industries, government agencies, and correctional institutions. They generally work 25 to 40 hours per week. Evening, weekend, and holiday hours are common, and shifts may rotate. Salary and compensation varies per setting.

Program Faculty

• Nancy Pares, RN, MSN - Director of Nursing Programs/Nursing Instructor
• Alex Winter, RN, MSN - Assistant Director of Nursing Programs/Nursing Instructor
• Diana Blum, RN, MSN - Nursing Instructor
• Teresa Champion, RN, BSN - Nursing Instructor
• Kristin Engel, RN, BSN - Nursing Instructor
• Jean Phelan, RN, MSN - Nursing Instructor
• Traci Warren, RN, BSN - Nursing Instructor
• Alice Ludwig, RN, MSN - Nursing Instructor

Program Descriptions

• The Practical Nursing program at Metropolitan Community College is a one-year, certificate program that combines classroom instruction, laboratory experience and clinical practice to prepare you to care for patients in a variety of settings. Successful graduates of the PN program may continue their nursing education and earn their Associate of Science in Nursing degree to become a Registered Nurse.

Credit Classes and Registration

Registration for the PN program is done through the Nursing Program. Students cannot self register for Nursing classes. Students applying for the PN program must meet with an advisor to submit an application. An appointment with an advisor can be made by contacting Metro's Call Center at 402-457-2400.

Admission Requirements - PDF
Admission Requirements -- Word
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