Carl Sandburg College offers a certificate in Practical Nursing designed to prepare practical nurses to function under the direction of a licensed professional in an ever-changing health care environment in a variety of health care settings. The student is prepared to function within the nursing roles of provider of care, manager of care, and member within the discipline of nursing in structured health care settings. Clinical experience is provided at hospitals, nursing homes, and community health organizations in several of the surrounding counties.
The Practical Nursing program is also offered Distance Learning between the Galesburg and the Branch Campus in Carthage with clinical sites at area health care facilities in that region.

Licensed Practical Nurse
Assist in the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patients. The LPN may provide basic bedside and personal care to clients in acute and long-term facilities. LPNs are authorized to perform treatments and administer medications as directed.

Working Conditions
Most health care facilities provide a safe and comfortable working environment. Working hours may include various shifts; including 8 or 12 hours, weekends, and holidays. Schools, offices, and clinics may offer more traditional hours.

Employment
The demand for licensed practical nurses is very high and is likely to increase. As life expectancy increases so too, is the need for health care providers to meet the demands of an aging population.

Accreditation/Approval
The Practical Nursing program is fully accredited by The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission and Approved by the Illinois State Board of Nursing, Department of Professional Regulation.

Licensure
Graduates may apply to write for the National Council Licensing Examination-NCLEX-PN. Upon successful completion of this exam, the student is eligible to apply for Practical Nurse licensure in any state. To be eligible to write for the NCLEX (the nursing licensure exam) you will be required to pay a fee and be fingerprinted by an approved agency within 60 days of submitting application.)

Please be advised that nursing licenses may be denied or disciplined by the Illinois State Board of Nursing (ISBN). Possible grounds for action occur if you have been convicted of any felony or misdemeanor that involves an illegal drug offense or a felony conviction for a crime against persons. Also considered are patterns of practice and other behaviors exhibiting an apparent incapacity to practice nursing. All criminal history must be revealed at time of licensure application and will be evaluated by the ISBN before licensure is granted or denied.

Admission
Admission to the program is competitive and selection is based on a point system. All prospective students for the Practical Nursing program must submit admission materials and meet admission requirements before their applications will be considered for review. The most qualified applicants who are residents of the Carl Sandburg College district will be given preference for admission to the program.

Number of Students Admitted Each Year:

Day Program(Galesburg Campus): 40
Evening Distance Learning Program: Galesburg Campus: 20