There is enormous potential for growth in the healthcare industry of Lynchburg, Virginia. Data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics reflects a demand for nursing professionals at all levels. The Lynchburg area has several accredited nursing schools, presenting promising career opportunities for the city’s aspiring nurses. Below we describe the major nursing career paths in greater detail.
Certified nursing assistant (CNA)
Nursing assistant certificate programs provide the most basic licensing in the field. Most certificates can be completed in just a few weeks or months. Through the CNA program, candidates gain essential clinical experience so that they hit the ground running in the workplace. CNAs provide patients with basic medical care, and they assist patients with everyday tasks such as eating, bathing, and changing clothes. The CNA role is ideally suited for those who want close contact with patients.
Licensed practical nurses have greater responsibility over patient care. Their training thus has far more breadth and depth, requiring 12 to 18 months to complete. The LPN certificate program includes science classes like anatomy and physiology, as well as clinical experience to prepare potential LPNs for work. Aspiring LPNs must pass the NCLEX-PN national exam before practicing.
Registered nurse (RN)
Virginia’s registered nursing programs come in four varieties: hospital diploma, associate’s degree in nursing (ADN), bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), and direct-entry master of science in nursing (MSN). All prelicensure graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN national exam before practicing as a registered nurse. RNs perform a wide range of patient care tasks, report directly to physicians, and frequently oversee teams of LPNs and CNAs.
To provide Lynchburg’s aspiring nurses a complete view of their options, we’ve profiled below each of the accredited nursing schools and programs in the metropolitan area.