GENERAL INFORMATION:
The Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center’s Practical Nursing Program welcomes men and women of all ages, races, and creeds who are interested in pursuing a career in health care. It is especially designed to afford the residents of Huntingdon County and surrounding areas the opportunity to receive a quality education in practical nursing.The program is designed to prepare a student to perform nursing care safely and effectively under the guidance of the registered professional nurse or the licensed practical nurse within any health care setting. Through participation in the Practical Nursing Program, the student will learn how to promote, maintain and restore individuals to their optimal level of health. The program integrates theory learned in the classroom to planned real-world experiences in clinical nursing situations.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are in strong demand. The health care field is enjoying an above-average growth of employment opportunities, especially in the fields of geriatrics and rehabilitation. LPNs may be employed in various health care settings:

MISSION STATEMENT:

The purpose of the Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center’s Practical Nursing Program is to provide an opportunity for residents of Huntingdon County to be educated in the field of practical nursing. Through participation in the Practical Nursing Program, the student will learn how to promote, maintain and restore individuals to their optimal level of health. Upon completion of the Practical Nursing Program and passing of the national licensing examination, the graduate will be prepared to function as an entry-level practical nurse in a variety of health care settings under the direction of a licensed professional nurse, licensed physician or licensed dentist.

PROGRAM LENGTH: 

The Practical Nursing Program consists of 12 consecutive months of theory and clinical preparation. One class enters the program in the fall of each year, with vacation and holiday time scheduled appropriately throughout the program’s calendar year. The program is divided into three levels, progressing from the basic level to the more complex. Each level combines classroom education (theory) with appropriate clinical experience for a total of 1,563 hours.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:

Students who successfully complete the Practical Nursing Program will be able to:

1. Function within the scope of practice of practical nursing in a variety of health care settings.
2. Utilize the nursing process to meet the physical, emotional, sociocultural and spiritual needs of the health care patient.
3. Perform therapeutic nursing techniques in a safe manner, incorporating basic biological and psychological principles in giving individualized nursing care.
4. Establish a therapeutic relationship with health care patients, families and significant others through the use of effective communication by recognizing each as a unique individual.
5. Assume responsibility and accountability for his/her own actions when providing nursing care to the health care patient.
6. Promote the rights of the individual patient through advocacy and education in the health care field.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

One class is admitted each fall. Program information and application forms are available by contacting the school or by printing an application from the “FORMS” link on this web site.  Applications must be received by May 1st of each year for consideration for the October class of the same.

All applicants must complete the following steps:

1. Submit a completed application form to HCCTC, Practical Nursing Program, P.O. Box E, Mill Creek, PA 17060.
2. Submit a paragraph per the instructions on the application form.
3. Request an official high school transcript and/or GED scores/diploma to be sent  to the Practical Nursing Program.
4. Request a professional reference. This reference needs to be completed and submitted by the appropriate person per the instructions on the ‘Applicant Reference Form.’
• Once you have completed the steps listed above, you will be notified by the Practical Nursing Program regarding pre-admission testing.
5. Take the pre-admission test and achieve passing scores.
• The Practical Nursing Program (PNP) is now using Kaplan’s Admission Test for pre-entrance testing which is given in May.  There is no specific study guide for this test, but any study guide for a standard aptitude test should help prepare you for the test.  There are many study guides available for purchase and can be found by doing an on-line search; it is not required to purchase a study guide, nor do we have a recommendation for a specific guide.  Also, there are many websites that have review information for math and science:  one example is www.khanacademy.org.  More websites may be found by doing an on-line search. CareerLink offers math and reading classes which may be helpful.  For more information, call 641-6408.  Once you have submitted your application a brief overview of Kaplan’s Admission Test with sample questions will be sent to you.
• Other test preparation review information and examples of other review books can be found at http://www.test-preparation.ca/nursing/ or by searching the web.
6. Attend a screening session conducted by the faculty of the Practical Nursing School.

 STUDENT SELECTION / ADMISSION:

Upon completion of the application process, the Coordinator and nursing faculty review the information to select the persons to be admitted to the program. (Note: Qualified applicants from Huntingdon County will be given preference for admission.)Upon being selected for admission to the Practical Nursing Program, the applicant must:

1. Return a signed acceptance letter with the indicated nonrefundable administrative fee by the specified date.
2. Obtain physical examination forms and submit proof of good physical and mental health as evidenced by a complete physical examination.
3. Obtain forms for Act 34 and Act 151 (criminal record and child abuse record) and submit to the Practical Nursing Program.
4. Submit a copy of current CPR certification for the health care provider.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

Prior to the start of class in October, 18 people selected for enrollment in the Practical Nursing Program must fulfill all admission requirements which include:

• Be a graduate of an approved high school or have a high school equivalency (GED). An official high school transcript and/or GED test scores must be submitted.
• Be in good physical and mental health, as evidenced by a physical examination.
• Must abide by the terms of the drug and alcohol policy.
• Have CPR certification for healthcare providers.
• Have a current, satisfactory criminal record and child abuse record (Act 34 and Act 151).
• Meet the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing criteria as follows – The  PA State Board of Nursing is prohibited by law from issuing a license or certificate to an applicant convicted of a felonious act prohibited by the Act of April 14, 1972 (P.L. 233, No. 64) known as The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act. For further information, or to obtain a copy of this law, contact the PA State Board of Nursing.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT:

Applicants who have successfully completed courses in a prior nursing/health care program may qualify for advance placement. Such courses must have been taken within the past three years and a “C” grade or better attained.Criteria for advanced placement are:

1. meet all admission criteria
2. submission of official transcript(s), course description(s) and letter of recommendation from one instructor from the previous program
3. successfully complete challenge exams

Further information can be obtained from the Practical Nursing Program.

STUDENT HEALTH:

Pre-admission: The student must be in good physical and mental health, as evidenced by a physical examination, for admission to the Practical Nursing Program. The complete physical examination, at the student’s expense, must be done by a physician, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner and completed before enrollment.

• A Mantoux (TB skin) diagnostic test required. Also, documentation of immunity and/or immunization is required for rubella, rubeola, mumps, varicella, tetanus and hepatitis B. A history of varicella documented by a physician is acceptable for immunity.
• All documentation of immunity or immunizations and diagnostic tests must be complete prior to the first day of clinical experience. If the hepatitis immunization series is not complete prior to the start of classes, documentation for the subsequent hepatitis immunizations must be submitted to the Coordinator of Practical Nursing until the series is complete.

School year: Students must maintain good health in order to meet the objectives of the program. The Practical Nursing Program supports health promotion and a smoke-free environment both in the school and clinical areas.

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY:

The Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center Practical Nursing Program is an equal opportunity educational institution and does not discriminate in its educational and vocational programs, activities or employment practices as required by Title IX, Section 504, and Title VI.  The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

The Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator is Lynn Wertman, Business Manager, Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center, P.O. Box E, Mill Creek, PA, 17060.  The telephone number is 814/643-0951.  For more information regarding services, activities, programs and facilities that are accessible and usable by handicapped persons, contact Lynn Wertman, Business Manager, at the above address and number.

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW:

Level 1 – Theory, 330 hours; Clinical, 177 hoursBasic Sciences for Nursing

• basic principles of anatomy and physiology of each body system
• basic chemistry
• nutrition
• emphasis on the relationship between physiology and anatomy, the interrelations among the organ systems, and the relationship of organ systems to homeostasis

Basic Nursing Care

• basic concepts of nursing care for adult patients with acute and long-term nursing needs
• normal growth and development throughout the lifespan
• emphasis on the aging adult
• foundations of nursing in a variety of health care settings
• basic to intermediate nursing procedures
• pre- and postoperative nursing care
• Nursing Arts Lab and clinical experiences are utilized for application of classroom theory

Level 2 – Theory, 246 hours; Clinical, 292 hours

Care of the Medical-Surgical Patient I

• basic concepts of care for adult patients with common  to moderately complex medical and surgical conditions in acute care and long-term care settings
• pathophysiology, treatment, and nursing care for patients with disorders of fluid and electrolyte imbalance, infectious and immune disorders, neoplastic disorders, respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal and accessory disorders, vascular disorders, cardiac disorders, and diabetes mellitus
• introduction to pharmacology with an overview of all drug classifications
• preparation and administration of nonparenteral medications
• integration of pharmacology and nutrition throughout the course

Introduction to Pediatric Nursing

• application of the nursing process to the care of the child from infant to adolescent
• care of children with health problems
• nutritional needs and pharmacology in childhood

Level 3 – Theory, 190 hours; Clinical, 328 hours

Care of the Medical-Surgical Patient II

• combines theory and clinical experience in the application of nursing care to adult patients with moderately complex nursing needs in acute care and long-term care settings
• includes pathophysiology, treatment, and nursing care for patients with mental health disorders, urinary disorders, integumentary disorders, neurological disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, reproductive disorders, ear and eye disorders, hematological disorders, endocrine disorders, chemical dependency, and medical emergencies
• pharmacology and nutrition are integrated throughout this course

• preparation and administration of parenteral medications

• leadership role of the practical nurse
• transition from graduate practical nurse to LPN

Introduction to Maternity Nursing

• theory and clinical experience in the application of the nursing process to the care of families throughout the course of normal pregnancy – the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods
• complications that may occur during the course of pregnancy
• care of the newborn

ATTENDANCE

Each student must attend and be punctual for all scheduled classes and clinical experiences to be successful in the program and to attain the program objectives. A student’s absences may total no more than 63 hours. Exceeding the 63-hour maximum is reason for dismissal from the Practical Nursing Program. Unusual extenuating circumstances will be reviewed by the nursing faculty if the student is in good academic and clinical standing. This attendance policy is strongly enforced.

ACADEMIC POLICIES:

Students are graded in two separate areas: academic achievement and clinical performance. Academic course grades are calculated on a percentage basis. Minimum academic passing grade is 78 percent. All courses must be completed with a grade of 78 percent or higher in order to advance to the next level. Failure to achieve this grade average upon completion of any course will result in dismissal from the program. Clinical performance is graded as satisfactory or unsatisfactory. Students must receive a satisfactory clinical evaluation by the end of each term in order to advance to the next level. Failure to achieve a satisfactory in the clinical course objectives by the end of the level will result in dismissal from the program.

PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT:

 The faculty of the Practical Nursing Program of the Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center believes that:

• All human beings are unique individuals who have worth and should be treated with dignity. Each individual has diverse physical, psychological, sociological and spiritual needs that must be met.
• Human beings live within a society. Society is based upon diverse cultures which deserve respect and understanding of their beliefs.
• Education is a life-long process of acquiring knowledge. It is an on-going process accomplished through continuing education programs, employment and life experiences. Learning progresses from the simple to the complex with the students as active participants in the learning process.
• Nursing is both an art and a science that deals with the delivery of care in a variety of health settings. Practical nursing is an integral part of nursing. Practical nursing education is based upon an academic foundation in the physical, behavioral and social sciences, as well as the acquisition of technical skills. Through this education the student will gain competence in providing patient care.
• The practical nursing curriculum progresses from the simple to the complex and is always changing to reflect the most current technology. Learning is facilitated by the integration of concurrent theory and clinical experiences. The practical nursing education experience promotes maturity and personal growth allowing the student to become a productive member of society.

TUITION and FEES:

FINANCIAL AID:

Tuition costs can be paid by the student, employer or various governmental agencies. To assist students in meeting the financial requirements of the Practical Nursing Program, a variety of resources are available:

1. PELL GRANT
• A federal PELL grant is an award to help undergraduates pay for their education after high school. How much grant assistance you are eligible for will depend upon your own personal financial conditions. PELL grant applications (Free Application for Federal Student Aid – FAFSA) can be obtained from the Financial Aid Officer.
2. STAFFORD LOANS
• A federal Stafford loan is a low-interest loan made to students attending post-secondary school to help finance their education. Applications for PHEAA Stafford loans may be obtained from your bank or PHEAA. Before a student’s application can be certified by the school, the students must have filed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
3. PLUS
• Federal PLUS loans are fro parents who want to borrow to help pay for their children’s education. It is also a low-interest loan that provides additional funds for educational expenses, and like the Stafford loans must be paid back. These loans are not subsidized by the government, which means that the borrower is responsible for paying all interest that accrues on these loans.
4. WIA
• Individuals who meet the Workforce Investment Act eligibility requirements may receive financial assistance toward the cost of tuition. All applications are taken at the Pennsylvania CareerLink Office located in the county of residence. For more information interested individuals should call their local CareerLink.
5. TRA/TAA
• Funding through the Trade Act is provided to dislocated workers who have lost factory employment due to foreign competition. This finding generally pays for tuition, fees, and required supplies. Normally, individuals are notified at their place of work whom to contact.
6. VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
• The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) assists with funding for qualified students who possess certain disabilities. Individuals should contact the agency for eligibility determination.
7. GI bill:  To determine your eligibility, contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and obtain the necessary application or apply online at www.gibill.va.gov.

Be aware that it is imperative that processing for all funding sources be identified and initiated prior to the start of classes in order to ensure funding prior to the due dates. Also, the student may owe money if there is a discrepancy between the total amount owed, and the amount of Title IV monies awarded.

REFUND POLICY:

If a student should officially terminate or withdraw from the program, he/she must do so in writing and submit a request for refund. Upon completion of the withdrawal/termination form, any refund due will be calculated according to the last day of attendance.Tuition refunds are based on full program costs and are calculated on a pro-rata basis. A student withdrawing prior to the first day of class may receive a 100 percent tuition refund. After classes begin, refunds will be pro-rata based, rounded up to the nearest 10 percent of scheduled hours. After 60 percent of the program is completed, no refund is given.  Instructional material fees are not subject to the pro-rata refund policy.All refunds will be made in a timely manner. If a refund is due a student under the refund policy and the student has received Title IV aid as a part of the student’s aid packet, the refund will be distributed in a specified order of priority: first, to the lender of a Title IV Loan, to reduce the loan principal; second (if applicable), applied to reduce Title IV grant amounts received; and third (if applicable), to the sponsoring agency, student or parent.

GRADUATION:

 Students who successfully complete all three levels of the program are presented a diploma at graduation. Graduates are eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).Please note that the State Board of Nursing is prohibited by law from issuing a license to individuals convicted of a felonious act prohibited by the Act of April 14, 1972 (P.L. 233, No. 64), known as The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act. For further information or to obtain a copy of this Law, contact the PA State Board of Nursing.

COOPERATING AGENCIES:

Clinical experience is obtained at the J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital and Westminster Woods, a continuing care retirement community, in Huntingdon.Additional experiences are obtained through a variety of informative clinical observations and practicums, including Huntingdon County Child and Adult Development (Day Care), Huntingdon Family Care Associates, Pediatrics and Beyond, etc.

DRUG-FREE SCHOOL and WORKPLACE:

The policy of the Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center (HCCTC) prohibits students from using, possessing, distributing and/or being under the influence of any controlled substances on school property or on any non-school property used in the performance of school services (including the cooperating clinical agencies) or for school-sponsored events. A prospective student must notify the program director of any previous criminal drug statute conviction at the time of applying for admission to the program.Any student found in violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, which may include dismissal.HCCTC may require the student offender to participate in drug counseling, rehabilitation, testing or other programs as a condition of reinstatement into the center’s Practical Nursing Program.This Policy Statement is adopted in accordance with the requirements of federal law, the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Career LinkPersons interested in healthcare careers, including practical nursing, are encouraged to contact Pennsylvania Career Link for additional information regarding healthcare careers and preparation for entrance into healthcare education programs.For more information in Huntingdon County, contact:

Pennsylvania Career Link
54 Pennsylvania Avenue
Huntingdon, PA 16652
814-641-6408, ext. 112

Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center – Practical Nursing Program is

Approved by:

Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing
Pennsylvania Department of Education
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
Veterans Administration

Accredited by:

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc.
3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 500
Atlanta, Georgia 30326
404-975-5000

www.acenursing.org

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Mailing Address:

Practical Nursing Program
Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center
PO Box E
Mill Creek, PA 17060

Physical Address:
Practical Nursing Program
Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center
Annex Building (traffic light @ intersection of Routes 22 and 655)
13221 Big Valley Pike
Mill Creek, PA 17060

Telephone: 814-643-6525
FAX: 814-643-3645

Coordinator
Kimberly Huff, RN, MSN
khuff@hcctc.org

Instructor:
Melody Jaymes, RN, MSN
mmjaymes@hcctc.org

Support Staff:
Dianne Stewart
dstewart@hcctc.org

To receive an application form, and for questions or additional information about the Practical Nursing Program, please telephone, email, or write the faculty.

Please Note: The Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center reserves the right to alter, as necessary, the courses, regulations and schedule of charges described within. It also reserves the right to terminate or renew the registration of a student for reasons in the best interest of the institution.