Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide bedside patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse, physician, or dentist. While providing direct patient care, the LPN is in a strategic position to observe the patient response to treatment and care. As an effective and contributing member of the nursing team, the LPN assists in implementing the patient's care plan. In some settings, the LPN may be responsible for supervising nursing care delivery to a group of patients. The LPN may administer medications and treatments to assigned patients while supervising nursing assistants who perform basic nursing functions. After completing the Practical Nursing Program, graduates are eligible to make application for the NCLEX-PN exam.

According to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 282,000 LPNs will be needed by 2014.  A faster than average growth in health care industries outside the traditional hospital settings is predicted to contribute to this need.

At Wallace Community College the Practical Nursing curriculum is available at three locations--the Wallace Campus in Dothan, the Sparks Campus in Eufaula, and the Fort Rucker Center. With a credential award of a program certificate, the Practical Nursing Program is three terms in length. Program admission is competitive and applications are accepted twice each year for entry in Fall or Spring semesters. For specific guidance, contact Ms. Gwyn Galloway, Program Director or Ms. Debbie Holman , PN Secretary.

The Practical Nursing Program is accredited through 2008 by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), 61 Broadway, 33rd Floor, New York, NY 10006, 212-363-5555. In addition to NLNAC accreditation, the Practical Nursing Program is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing.