LVN TO RN STEP-UP NURSING

NURSING is a blend of science, technology and compassion that allows the practitioner to provide health care in a variety of settings. California is currently experiencing a nursing shortage which is expected to last well into the 21st century. As a result job opportunities are abundant and salaries very competitive. New graduates can expect to make $50,000 a year or more.

The LVN to RN STEP-UP NURSING PROGRAM leads to licensure as a Registered Nurse, following successful completion of the national NCLEX examination. RN's work to promote health, prevent disease and help patients cope with illness. They are health advocates and educators for patients, families and communities.

In hospitals RN's observe, assess and evaluate patients progress and determine nursing care needs. They may provide basic bedside care, give medications and perform needed procedures. RN's often supervise LVN's, Nurses Aides and other members of the health care team.

In hospitals RN's may be assigned to specialty areas such as emergency room, surgery, pediatrics, maternity, or intensive care. RN's may also work in a variety of health care settings including offices, clinics, corporations, schools, home health and serve in the military.

TO ENTER this career ladder program, Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) must complete all prerequisites for the Associate Degree Nursing Program (ADN). They are then added to the third semester of the ADN program on a space available basis. Applications for this program are available in the Nursing Office (Room 839, Marysville). The applicant must have a valid vocational nursing license prior to the first day of class.

YCCD NURSING PROGRAMS offer clinical experiences in a variety of health care settings including acute care hospitals, extended care facilities, offices and clinics. Lectures are broadcast via interactive TV to Yuba College in Marysville, Woodland Community College and to the Lake County campus. Some classes are available online and many are web enhanced. Skill labs in Marysville and Woodland are staffed with part-time R.N. instructional assistants to provide additional support to students. Media, including videotapes, computer-assisted instructional programs, resource books and professional journals are available at all three campuses. Applications are available on-line or in the Math & Science office or by calling 530-741-6786. Students must complete all prerequisite course work before applying.

Costs:
In addition to living expenses, enrollment fees and books, nursing students have the additional cost of uniforms, malpractice insurance, health examination, drug testing and others. There are many grants, scholarships and loans available to nursing students who meet qualifying criteria.

Drug / Background Screening:
All students enrolled in nursing and allied health programs are subject to the district drug policy and procedure and background screening which can be found in the ADN/VN Nursing Student Handbook. Violation of this policy can result in denial of admission or permanent dismissal from the program.

Recommended Courses:
These courses are not required but may facilitate learning if taken prior to formal admission to the nursing programs.

Nurs 51 Medical Terminology............... 3 units
ECE 3 Child Growth and Development........ 3 units
BCA 27 Introduction to Computers.......... 0.5 units

LVN TO RN STEP-UP PROGRAM

Unless otherwise noted, prerequisite, co-requisite and support courses must be completed with a grade of 'C' or higher.

General Education and Support Courses:

Nursing courses cannot be scheduled around general education and support courses. It is recommended that students plan ahead, and, take all courses prior to beginning the Nursing Program.

**Nursing 37 is designed specifically for the LVN who is moving into the 2nd year of the Yuba College ADN program. It is offered one semester each year. Students should be close to completing prerequisites before registering for this course.

Sequence of Nursing Courses:

Nursing Courses:

Nursing 36 Pathophysiology (3 units) Prerequisites: Biol. 4 and 5

Nursing 34 Med/Surg II (9 units)
Includes 4 units of theory and 5 units of clinical. Prerequisite: Program admission.

Nursing 35 Med/Surg III (5 units)
Includes 2 units of theory and 3 units of clinical. Prerequisite: Nursing 34.

Nursing 33 Mental Health (4 units)
Includes 2 units of theory and 2 units of clinical. Prerequisite: Program admission.

All required courses must be completed with a grade of a 'C' or better to progress through the curriculum.