Course Overview
The Practical Nursing (PN) Program at U.S. Nursing College is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, professional values, and competencies necessary to enter the practical nursing profession and provide safe, effective, and compassionate patient care. The program is structured to support the educational and occupational objectives established for an Illinois-approved practical nursing program and to prepare graduates for entry-level employment as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), subject to applicable Illinois licensure requirements.
The curriculum integrates classroom theory, laboratory practice, clinical experiences, and simulation to provide students with progressive opportunities to develop and apply nursing knowledge and skills. Consistent with Illinois nursing education requirements, the program addresses fundamental concepts of nursing practice, including anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, communication, growth and development, psychosocial and cultural considerations, legal and ethical responsibilities, and the promotion, prevention, restoration, and maintenance of health across the lifespan.
Through supervised clinical and simulation experiences in a variety of healthcare settings, students develop competencies in patient assessment, basic nursing interventions, medication administration, health education, communication, documentation, safety, infection prevention and control, and the delivery of patient-centered care. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, clinical judgment, professionalism, accountability, ethical practice, and effective collaboration with patients, families, and members of the healthcare team.
The Practical Nursing Program consists of 1,140 clock hours of instruction and includes theory, laboratory, clinical, and simulation learning experiences. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are prepared to pursue entry-level practical nursing employment and to meet the educational requirements for application for Illinois practical nursing licensure, including eligibility to pursue the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) in accordance with requirements established by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
The program also provides a foundation for continued professional development and further nursing education, supporting graduates who may choose to advance their education and professional qualifications.
