Practical Nursing (PRCN) Program

Overview

The Practical Nursing (PRCN) Program at Kapi‘olani Community College is one year in length, wherein graduates of the program will receive a Certificate of Achievement; after which, graduates will be trained to work as practical nurses in long-term care facilities (working with the elderly) and in home health settings (working with children).

Certification

The Practical Nursing Program prepares graduates for the National Council of Licensure Examination for practical nurses (NCLEX-PN).

Qualities Needed

Important qualities of a nurse include enjoy working with and caring for people as well as being personable, reassuring, patient, compassionate, honest and reliable. Other qualities include being able to accept, give and use constructive feedback; having good manual dexterity and coordination; being able to act quickly and effectively in emergencies; being able to speak and write well; being able to work independently and within a team; and being able to deal with a variety of emotional expressions.

In order to prepare for a nursing career and program, you will need to develop a strong background in math, science and English; volunteer or work within a hospital, nursing home, clinic or other health care setting; develop good communication, computer, logical thinking and time management skills; take health-related courses; and complete prerequisite courses.

Employment Outlook

There is a demand for practical nurses in long-term care facilities and the home health settings with possible opportunities in the acute/hospital setting.  The average entry-level salary is $19 per hour and with experience $26 per hour or more.

Nursing Program Career Ladder

Starting in the Fall 2007, a career ladder model was incorporated into the Associate in Science degree in Nursing program to provide students with an opportunity to obtain training and licensure as a practical nurse, while also pursuing their Associate in Science degree in Nursing training and RN licensure. After completing the first year of the Associate in Science degree in Nursing program as well as the pediatric nursing course, nursing students will have an opportunity to register for and pass the NCLEX-PN exam via the Hawai‘i Board of Nursing.

The LPN-RN Transition (ANURS-LPN) Program is for Licensed Practical Nurses who are interested in becoming a registered nurse. This program may be completed in three semesters after prerequisites are completed. For more information, click on ANURS-LPN Program.