Practical Nursing (PN)

Adult Practical Nursing Program (HEGIS Code: 5209.20)

The Practical Nursing Program is designed to prepare students to work as entry level Practical Nurses in today's health care system. This program is comprised of 726 hours theory and 510 hours clinical, totaling 1,236 hours of instruction.  Emphasis is placed on developing the skills knowledge and behaviors necessary for effective use of the nursing process to perform basic client care. Ultimately, the student needs to understand, integrate, and then apply theory to real Practical Nursing situations with clients of any age. Students also practice for the required NCLEX-PN licensure examination throughout their PN program.

Currently accepting applications for the Niagara Falls class.
Anticipated start date Fall 2023.

Course Objectives
Upon completion of the course the student will be able to:

  • Identify the roles and responsibilities of the Practical Nurse
  • Utilize the nursing process to solve client problems
  • Adapt nursing care to the principles of growth and development
  • Apply the school philosophy to nursing practice
  • Explain health care delivery systems
  • Practice safe basic nursing skills
  • Utilize basic scientific principles in nursing care

Locations
Lockport Community Education Training Center
50 Main St
Lockport, NY 14094

Workforce Training Center 
606 6th Street
Niagara Falls, NY 14301

 Admission Requirements 
  • Successful completion of Biology & High School Math Courses (strongly recommended)
  • Completed PN Application on file in the Nursing Education Office
  • Submission of official copies of all school transcripts or GED/TASC (High School Equivalency).
  • Testing fee payment
  • Successful Pre-test - ATI TEAS (composite score: 47, reading score: 64.3, and math score 47
  • Successful interview with Practical Nursing faculty
  • Successful completion of Pre-PN class

Pre-Test
All applicants must successfully complete the ATI Teas (test of essential academic skills) exam. See www.atitesting.com for more information. The entrance examination is part of the admission process. This test is a 3-4 hour, multiple choice, timed examination testing essential math skills, reading comprehension, science and english.

Financing
Financial Aid is available to qualifying individuals.  Click on "Financial Aid Application Procedure" at left for detailed information.
If accepted, a $100.00 non-refundable acceptance fee is required to reserve enrollment. This acceptance fee is applied toward tuition.

Important Information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rates of students who attend the PN program

Scheduling
The O-N BOCES PN Program is scheduled 4 days a week for 13.5 months.
The theory portion of the program is scheduled 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM        
The clinical portion of the program will be scheduled at local health care facilities from 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM.

Attendance and Grading Policy
Attendance and maintaining a minimum grade of 75% are critical to success and continuance in the PN program. If a student does not make up clinical absence hours, has not passed program critical elements as specified, or has a grade average lower than 75%, they will not be able to continue in the program.

Topics of Study

  • Introduction to Practical Nursing
  • Basic Concepts of Physical and Life Sciences
  • Anatomy & Physiology with related Nursing Skills
  • Nutrition
  • Pharmacology
  • Geriatrics
  • Introduction to Clinical
  • Growth & Development
  • Mental health
  • Community Health
  • Medical Surgical Nursing with Related Nursing Skills
  • Maternity
  • Pediatrics
  • Clinical Hours in Required Areas

Health Requirement
Completion of the O-N BOCES physical examination by your primary care provider is required prior to any clinical experience.

Examples of Clinical Experience Rotation Sites

  • Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center
  • Lockport Rehab and Health Care Center
  • Elderwood of Lockport
  • Schoellkopf Health Care Facility

Areas of Clinical Experience

  • Geriatrics
  • Medical-Surgical
  • Maternal-Child
  • Leadership
  • Medication Administration

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Kathy Dix @ 716-731-6800  X4445 

FOR APPLICATION:  Please complete, print, and send to: 
Health Occupations
Orleans Niagara BOCES
50 Main Street
Lockport, NY  14094

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