What are the Differences Between Vital Signs and Side Effects?

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Vital signs and side effects are different yet inseparable topics. Doctors rely on both to guide medical decision-making. LPNs play a critical role in healthcare by monitoring vital signs and side effects, both are pieces of clinical puzzles.

What Are the Main Vital Signs? 

Vital signs are baseline clinical measurements that reflect a patient’s overall physical health.

The primary vital signs include:

Temperature

Measured in Fahrenheit (°F) or Celsius (°C), temperature readings indicate how much heat the body is producing. A reflection of metabolism, abnormally high or low readings suggest physical changes that could indicate illness. The average adult temperature is 98.6 °F or 37 °C.

Heart Rate

Heart rate, or pulse, is the number of times the heart beats per minute. Healthy readings average 60-100 BPM. LPNs are also trained to notice pulse characteristics, including strength and regularity.

Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is the force blood exerts against artery walls. Measured as systolic over diastolic pressure, it’s a reflection of cardiac, respiratory, and renal health. Readings in the 120/80 range are the norm.

Respiratory Rate

The respiratory rate is the number of breaths someone takes per minute, healthy adults average 12-16 easy respirations.

Why Do Medical Assistants and LPNs Take Vital Signs? 

Taking vital signs is critical for several key reasons:

Patient Assessment

Abnormal vital signs suggest changes in a patient’s health status. Readings point to specific conditions, helping doctors diagnose illness. An elevated temperature, for example, points to an infection.

Baseline Information

Normal vital sign readings vary based on factors from age to physical conditioning. Regular measurements can reveal early signs of medical conditions, such as hypertension and heart disease, allowing for earlier intervention.

Medication Management

Monitoring vital signs helps doctors assess the effects of treatments. If hypertension doesn’t respond to a certain drug, for example, the patient may need a higher dose or a different medication.

Safety Precautions 

Medical procedures can cause stress on the body. Anesthesia, for example, suppresses the respiratory rate. Assessing vital signs before surgery reassures doctors that patients are stable enough to tolerate the procedure.

Monitoring vital signs is also crucial for detecting drug side effects. Routine checks ensure that patients are getting the best medications in appropriate dosages.

What Are Side Effects? 

Side effects are unintended consequences of medical treatments. Some, such as hair loss after chemotherapy, are expected and manageable. Others, like allergic reactions, may be serious or life-threatening because they affect vital signs.

Common side effects of medications and other treatments include:

Nausea and Vomiting

Many medications, including analgesics, general anesthetics, and antibiotics, can cause nausea and vomiting ranging from mild and transient to severe and sustained. Persistent vomiting can lead to fluid loss resulting in low blood pressure and a rapid heartbeat.

Dizziness

Some drugs, including blood pressure medications and opioid pain relievers, can cause dizziness, lightheartedness, or fainting. Both can cause blood pressure to drop, creating a risk of falls.

Fatigue

Certain medications, such as antihistamines, affect the nervous system, causing temporary drowsiness and fatigue. Confusion is a common side effect of over-the-counter allergy medications in patients over 60 years of age.

Changes in Mood

Unpredictable mood changes are possible with medications such as antidepressants. Others, including anesthetics, can cause delirium, especially in the elderly.

Pain or Redness

Swelling, discomfort, redness, and bruising are common at surgical incision sites, resolving slowly as they heal. A fever plus worsening symptoms might indicate an infection.

Fever

Some people develop a low-grade fever for 24-48 hours after receiving certain vaccines. The good news among researchers, however, is that this indicates a robust immune response.

Allergic Reactions 

Mild allergic reactions to medications, including vomiting, rashes, and hives, are not uncommon. These side effects, however, can evolve into serious or life-threatening adverse effects, such as anaphylactic shock, if not addressed. Anaphylaxis begins with garden-variety allergy symptoms but quickly progresses to airway constriction, low blood pressure, rapid pulse, and organ failure. It’s a medical emergency.

What Do Side Effects Tell Healthcare Professionals? 

The presence or absence of side effects answers many clinical questions, such as:

Is the Patient Tolerating Treatment? 

Side effects reflect how a patient is responding to a specific treatment. The lack of side effects is promising. Symptoms like vomiting, however, suggest a change in therapy may be necessary. The good news is that there are alternatives within most categories of drugs that may be better tolerated. And as is the case with many chemotherapy agents, side effects can be treated to make them more manageable.

Do Safety Concerns Outweigh the Therapeutic Benefits of Treatment? 

All medical treatments have risks and benefits, but some side effects create significant safety concerns. A senior who feels dizzy after taking blood pressure medication, for example, is at risk for falls.

By monitoring for side effects, doctors can better see a patient’s entire clinical picture, allowing them to determine when the risks of a particular therapy exceed the potential benefits.

Will the Patient Adhere to Treatment Recommendations? 

Side effects can influence a patient’s willingness to adhere to their treatment plan. If a patient experiences intolerable side effects, they may be less likely to continue taking beneficial medications. People with diabetes, for example, may be less compliant with insulin injections because they’re uncomfortable and inconvenient. For these patients, an oral diabetes treatment may improve adherence and outcomes.

What Are the Differences Between Vital Signs and Side Effects? 

Vital signs and side effects differ in these key areas:

Purpose

Vital signs are measurements. Assessed at regular intervals, they’re an essential part of patient assessment.

Side effects are unintended and serve no therapeutic purpose, but they can provide clues that help doctors refine treatment regimens.

Subjectivity

Vital signs are objective measurements, readings aren’t subject to interpretation. Any two patients with blood pressure over 140/90 are considered to have hypertension.

Side effects are observed or reported, but they’re subjective experiences because they impact patients’ lives differently. Persistent vomiting, for example, will affect an underweight cancer patient more than a healthy adult.

Timing

Vital signs are measured and recorded routinely.

Side effects, including changes in vital signs, may occur without warning. Even after years of therapy, factors such as illness or weight loss can affect how the body reacts to a drug.

As an LPN, you’ll inquire about side effects related to treatments each time you update a patient’s medical history.

Final Thoughts

Vital signs and side effects are distinct concepts. But together, they create a clinical picture that helps doctors make the best treatment decisions.

Practical Nursing Program

Are you looking for Practical Nursing training classes in Central Florida that prepares you to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN)? Gwinnett Institute in Orlando offers a Practical Nursing diploma program that trains LPN students for positions delivering basic bedside care to patients. The Practical Nursing diploma program provides the didactic and skills training needed to take the NCLEX-PN examination.* 

*While Gwinnett Institute provides test preparation and review assistance to college students, it cannot guarantee any college student will be able to take or pass any type of licensure exam. College students must be mindful throughout their entire training program that licensure is a prerequisite for employment as a nurse and to diligently prepare themselves to meet this important requirement.

Contact us today to learn more about becoming an LPN in Orlando at Gwinnett Institute.

What is Medical Administration?

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“Medical administration” is an umbrella term for administrative healthcare careers. Jobs are typically divided into two categories, office, and general administration. Both are excellent choices for organizational geniuses with good communication skills and leadership ability. But the roles are very different.

What Does a Medical Administrative Assistant Do? 

Medical administrative assistants manage clerical and administrative responsibilities in healthcare settings. Their diverse skills and ability to multitask contribute to the overall quality of patient care wherever medicine is practiced.

The work includes:

Appointment Scheduling

Medical administrative assistants manage the scheduling of patient appointments, ensuring that physicians’ schedules are well-organized and properly spaced to accommodate different types of visits while optimizing productivity and minimizing patient wait times.

Front Desk Operations

Medical administrative assistants greet patients, answer phone calls, and oversee hospitality services while managing the flow of patients through the reception area. They set the pace for the entire team.

Patient Registration

Part of the front-office staff, medical administrative assistants collect patient information, verify insurance details and update data in electronic health records (EHR).

Medical Records Management

Healthcare is data driven. Medical administrative assistants maintain paper and electronic recordkeeping systems, ensuring that patient files are organized, accurate, readily accessible, and securely stored.

Billing and Coding

As team players, medical administrative assistants help the back office with billing tasks, such as processing insurance claims, obtaining service pre-authorizations, collecting copayments and reconciling credit card remittances.

Transcription

Medical administrative assistants may transcribe physician dictation into written reports, including medical histories, examination notes, and treatment plans.

Correspondence and Communication

Medical offices receive high volumes of mail, e-mails, and faxes. Administrative assistants sort and distribute communication, flagging priority messages and handling responses when needed.

Maintaining Supplies

Medical administrative assistants ensure that offices are adequately stocked with the necessary supplies, from printer paper to paper clips. They might also care for office equipment, such as printers, managing routine maintenance and ink and toner orders.

Client Care

As ambassadors of first impressions, medical administrative assistants serve as liaisons between patients and their healthcare team. They ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations and provide a welcoming atmosphere for patients and other guests.

What Does a Medical Administrator Do? 

Medical administrators oversee the operational aspects of healthcare facilities. This could include supervising a single department, managing one or more aspects of facility management such as finance, or assuming leadership of entire facilities. It’s a much broader role.

Responsibilities may include:

Strategic Planning 

Strategic planning is the process of setting goals, making informed decisions, and allocating resources to achieve a facility’s long-term vision. Medical administrators explore the internal and external factors affecting organizational goals and develop action plans to accomplish growth and sustainability initiatives.

As leaders, they:

  • Identify facility strengths, weaknesses, and growth opportunities
  • Assign human, financial, and technological resources to support strategic planning
  • Monitor performance metrics
  • Develop risk mitigation strategies
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to achieve objectives
  • Promote a culture of integrity, teamwork, and productivity
  • Manage marketing and community outreach efforts

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory compliance in healthcare refers to adhering to the laws, regulations, standards, and guidelines imposed by government and accrediting agencies.

Whether for a unit or a facility, medical administrators:

  • Manage facility licensing and certification processes
  • Oversee data security
  • Develop emergency response plans
  • Implement workplace safety measures
  • Prepare for accreditation surveys
  • Handle incident reporting

Workforce Management

Medical administrators manage the recruitment, training, and supervision of employees. Some take an active role in the hiring process while others create workforce development policies to guide others.

Depending on the role, job responsibilities may include:

  • Coordinating recruitment efforts
  • Developing job descriptions
  • Reviewing resumes and conducting interviews
  • Determining wage and benefit packages
  • Sourcing liability insurance
  • Developing orientation and training programs
  • Creating personnel policies
  • Organizing team-building activities
  • Promoting an inclusive workplace environment
  • Managing labor disputes and contract negotiations
  • Ensuring facility adherence to labor regulations

Care Coordination

A healthcare facility’s greatest objective is to provide a pleasant and seamless patient experience. Medical administrators provide the supervision and leadership necessary to bring together the key players in that effort.

Responsibilities include:

  • Developing patient care protocols
  • Optimizing staffing levels
  • Facilitating interdepartmental collaboration
  • Budgeting for care coordination processes
  • Implementing performance improvement strategies
  • Engaging community partners
  • Establishing performance metrics

Healthcare Technology and Informatics Implementation

Medical administrators play a crucial role in implementing and managing healthcare technology.

Their focus is on:

  • Identifying areas where technology and data can be leveraged to meet operational goals
  • Assessing new technologies
  • Performing cost-benefit analyses on technological upgrades
  • Developing policies and procedures related to health information technology and data security
  • Working with personnel managers to implement staff training on new technology

Facility Oversight

Mid-level medical administrators manage daily operations in facilities large and small.

The work encompasses:

  • Overseeing facility improvements
  • Budgeting for repairs, renovations, and maintenance
  • Managing inventory
  • Negotiating supply contracts
  • Developing waste management programs
  • Implementing security measures to protect patients and assets
  • Establishing data access policies
  • Coordinating the use of facility space

How Do You Become a Medical Administrator or Administrative Assistant? 

Different roles require different training. Formal education isn’t always mandatory for this position, but healthcare is a unique and complex industry that requires a special skill set.

Vocational school programs cover the many skills students need to succeed as medical administrative assistants. While skills from previous jobs may be transferable, most people don’t have the necessary background in healthcare to thrive in this role without training. Many employers prefer hiring work-ready candidates with proven skills, so having a degree gives you an edge when competing against experienced candidates for the best jobs.

The curriculum covers topics such as medical terminology, healthcare law and medical coding, preparing graduates for entry-level front-office positions, such as patient registrar, medical biller, medical records specialist, and patient account representative. It also qualifies you for career-boosting certifications. The CMAA certificate is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). To be eligible, you usually need to complete an accredited medical administrative assistant program and pass an exam.

Medical administrators can launch their careers with a degree. The advanced curriculum covers topics from healthcare finance and operations to medical law and leadership skills. Graduates are qualified for entry-level roles from department managers to practice administrators. With experience, certification and continuing education, qualified candidates can grow into mid- and executive-level positions.

What Does the Future Hold for the Medical Administration Field? 

Today’s students are rightfully concerned about the future. Once-dependable careers are less secure as technology takes center stage. But the medical administration field is poised for continued growth, tasked with meeting the challenges of a rapidly expanding healthcare industry, including:

Technological Integration

Technology has the potential to make healthcare more accessible, effective, and financially sustainable, but there’s a steep learning curve. Medical administrators will take the reins, preparing their organizations for upgrades from digital recordkeeping systems and data analytics tools to remote work and telehealth service platforms.

Data-Driven Decision-Making

Medical knowledge is growing exponentially as healthcare providers try to keep up. One solution has been to deploy clinical decision-making tools that help doctors track new developments and best practices. Medical administrators will establish these and similar information support systems as part of strategic planning. The goal is to provide more efficient, evidence-based healthcare.

Workforce Diversity and Inclusion

Medical administrators will play a leadership role in fostering diverse and inclusive work environments that reflect the communities they serve. Cultural change starts at the top with decision-makers who lead through education and by example.

Regulatory Compliance 

Every new process in the healthcare field demands more regulation. Medical administrators will need to think ahead by creating proactive policies and training initiatives that keep organizations in compliance.

Financial Stability

The shift from fee-for-service to value-based care models reflects issues in healthcare funding. Medical administrators will be asked to focus on optimizing outcomes while controlling long-term costs through innovation and better care coordination.

Workforce Development

The evolving nature of healthcare requires a well-educated and versatile workforce. Medical administrators must emphasize professional development among clinical staff, ensuring that they stay competent so that facilities can remain competitive.

Accessibility

Despite our best efforts, some health services remain inaccessible for large parts of the population. Medical administrators will collaborate with private and public health agencies to address disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

Environmental Sustainability

Healthcare organizations are increasingly focusing on sustainability and environmental impact. Administrators will participate in projects designed to reduce waste, minimize energy consumption, and promote eco-friendly practices.

National and Global Health Integration

The recent pandemic and natural disasters underscore the importance of interconnectivity in healthcare. Medical administrators will manage local, national, and international collaborations to improve crisis preparedness.

Public Policy Making

National healthcare policy dictates much of what occurs at the organizational level. Regulations are both necessary and frustrating. But medical administrators have seats at the table, and with their input, government agencies can craft better policies that are more responsive to the needs of patients, communities, and healthcare facilities.

Final Thoughts 

The medical administration field will continue to evolve in response to the changing healthcare landscape. Industry professionals will need to be adaptable, tech-savvy and dedicated to improving patient outcomes. Where you begin your career matters less than cultivating the skills required to prosper in a changing world, skills that begin with the right education.

Now that you know what the role of a medical office assistant is, do you want to learn more? Start by attending a school that offers one of the best Medical Office Administration training programs in Sarasota, FL. An Associate of Science in Medical Administration from Meridian College prepares you for the day–to–day challenges of managing a healthcare organization. You’ll also benefit from better work hours, advancement opportunities and greater financial security.

Contact Meridian College today to learn more about becoming a medical office administrator.

What is the Difference Between RN and BSN?

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If you’re a registered nurse with an associate degree, congratulations. RN programs are tough, squeezing in a lot of learning in just two years. But have you ever wondered where your career is headed in an industry defined by education? As an RN, no amount of experience is a substitute for higher learning. So, if you want to advance your career and become a leader in the nursing field, you need to earn a BSN. It’s a career move you won’t regret.

What Is a BSN Degree?

A BSN is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. For first-time nursing students, it takes four years to complete. For RNs with an associate degree, program lengths vary from 18 to 24 months. The curriculum builds on your existing knowledge and work experience to take your skills to the next level.

What Do You Learn in an RN to BSN Degree Program? 

The RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing/RN-BSN program gives registered nurses a way to earn a bachelor’s degree without starting from scratch. Courses are built on your work experience, taking a deeper dive into topics only touched upon in RN programs. Students are prepared to assume management and leadership positions in public and private healthcare settings. Courses include:

Quality and Safety in Nursing and Health Care

Beyond entry-level nursing principles, this course focuses on the broader concepts of patient safety, quality improvement and evidence-based practice within the nursing field and in the healthcare industry as a whole. Students explore:

Patient safety concepts — how to promote a culture of safety within healthcare organizations through risk assessment and harm prevention.

Healthcare quality frameworks — established quality improvement models, such as Lean, Six Sigma and the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle.

Quality improvement strategies — methods for assessing and enhancing the quality of patient care, including root cause analysis, measuring outcomes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing changes to meet performance goals.

Evidence-based practice — how to appraise research findings and apply evidence to clinical decision-making.

Healthcare regulation — an overview of the regulatory bodies that set standards for healthcare quality, safety, and best practices.

Risk management — how to identify, assess and manage risks in complex healthcare environments.

Incident reporting — reporting near misses, adverse events, and medical errors to comply with regulations and promote transparency within healthcare organizations.

Human factors engineering — how to prevent healthcare errors by influencing human behavior.

Health technology and informatics — the use of technology, such as electronic health records and barcoding systems, to prevent medical mistakes and improve safety.

Palliative Care

Palliative care optimizes the quality of life for people with complex or terminal illnesses. BSN topics include:

The history of palliative care — the philosophy, evolution, and goals of palliative care.

Pain relief and symptom management methodology — using medications and non-pharmacological interventions to alleviate the physical and cognitive impact of serious disease.

Psychosocial support — how to provide psychosocial support to patients and their families, addressing the many psychological, emotional, spiritual, and social impacts of illness.

Communication — how to have open conversations with patients and families about sensitive topics, including prognosis, treatment options and end-of-life planning.

Advanced Care Planning — a look at advance directives, living wills, healthcare powers-of-attorney and other tools for documenting patients’ end-of-life wishes.

Grief and bereavement — how to support families during the end-of-life phase and in the aftermath of a loved one’s death.

Palliative care settings — exploring the challenges of palliative care in acute and long-term settings from hospitals to nursing homes.

Interdisciplinary collaboration — how to work effectively with physicians, social workers, chaplains, and other team members to provide comprehensive palliative care.

Holistic Approach to Health Assessment

Students in this class learn how to perform comprehensive health assessments from a holistic perspective, considering not only a patient’s physical health but also their psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. You’ll learn more about:

Taking health histories — how to gather the most accurate and relevant health information through patient interviews and documentation analysis.

Physical examination techniques — advanced assessment methods for major body systems, including how to adapt techniques for different patient populations, from infants to the elderly.

Communication skills — how to build trust and establish rapport with patients through therapeutic communication techniques, such as active listening, asking open-ended questions and conveying empathy.

Mental health assessment — assessing patients’ mental health and emotional well-being, including how to recognize signs of anxiety, depression, and other common psychological disorders.

Patient-centered care — strategies for effective communication, shared decision-making, and patient engagement in care planning.

Cultural Competence — the importance of cultural awareness and how patients’ cultural beliefs, values and practices impact health and care preferences.

Health promotion and education — how to educate patients during the assessment process with an emphasis on lifestyle choices, chronic disease management and preventive care.

Ethical Issues in Nursing

This course equips nurses to navigate and guide others through the moral complexities of healthcare. Students discuss:

Ethical theories and principles — how ethical theories, such as utilitarianism, deontology and relativism can guide ethical decision-making and behavior in nursing practice.

Patient autonomy and informed consent — the importance of respecting patients’ autonomy and obtaining informed consent for medical procedures and treatments.

Confidentiality and privacy — the legal, moral, and ethical implications of sharing and securing sensitive health information.

End-of-life care — the ethical considerations surrounding end-of-life care, including decisions about withholding or withdrawing treatment, do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders and honoring patients’ advance directives.

Resource allocation — discussions about equitable distribution of care, triage protocols and balancing the needs of different patient populations where resources are scarce.

Diversity considerations — ethical dilemmas related to discrepancies between cultural norms and medical recommendations.

Patient advocacy — a review of advocacy as a core nursing responsibility, including how to promote patients’ rights within the healthcare system.

Professional boundaries — the legal and ethical implications of maintaining appropriate professional boundaries with patients, families, and colleagues, including boundary protection strategies.

Research ethics — the moral considerations in nursing research, including informed consent for research participation, protection of participants’ rights and responsible research conduct.

Organizational Ethics — addressing ethical challenges related to healthcare organizations, such as conflicts of interest, corporate influence, and the nurse’s role in promoting ethical practices at the institutional level.

Whistleblowing — personal and occupational considerations for reporting misconduct and unsafe practices.

Nursing Leadership and Management

Today’s BSN students are tomorrow’s leaders. This course prepares you for supervisory, oversight and management roles. Concepts include:

Leadership styles — the impact of various leadership theories, such as transformational, transactional, situational and servant leadership, on team dynamics and organizational culture.

Management functions — the fundamental functions of management, including planning, organization, and delegation.

Interpersonal skills — how to better communicate with peers and motivate staff.

Team building — building cohesive healthcare teams through collaboration, communication and leveraging the strengths of team members.

Change management — how to facilitate smooth transitions, manage resistance to change and promote a culture of adaptability in the workplace.

Quality improvement — the use of data analysis and performance metrics to improve patient outcomes.

Budgeting and resource allocation — how to manage healthcare resources effectively, including budgeting for staffing, supplies, and equipment.

Strategic planning — how to align nursing goals with the broader mission and vision of a healthcare institution.

Legal considerations — balancing patient and staff rights as a nurse leader.

Performance evaluation — performance appraisal techniques for nursing staff, including feedback, goal setting and motivation.

Conflict resolution — how to identify and address conflicts within the healthcare team, including proven strategies for resolving disputes and promoting a positive work environment.

Healthcare policy — how nurses can contribute to shaping healthcare policies that benefit both patients and the nursing profession.

Professional development — the importance of continuous professional development for nursing leaders and managers, including ways to further your education as a supervisor and encourage staff training.

What Are the Benefits of Getting a BSN Degree? 

A BSN degree offers personal and practical benefits, including:

Advanced Clinical Skills

BSN programs offer more comprehensive training, helping you develop the advanced competencies employers need. RN students get less clinical exposure, leading to potential gaps in critical skills that can take years on the job to fill.

Greater Job Opportunity 

Many healthcare facilities, especially hospitals, now prefer or require nurses to hold a BSN. Research consistently suggests that hospitals with a higher proportion of BSN-prepared nurses tend to have better patient outcomes. Having a four-year degree opens up a wider range of job opportunities and increases your chances of being hired in your choice of settings, particularly in competitive job markets.

Professional Autonomy

All nurses are autonomous professionals. But BSN-prepared nurses have stronger knowledge-based critical thinking skills, enabling them to assess complex situations, analyze data and make well-informed decisions. Within the healthcare team, you’ll have more professional independence and take a more active role in patient care decisions.

Foundational Education

If you plan to pursue specialized nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist or nurse anesthetist, a BSN is a prerequisite for the MSN required for these jobs. BSN programs also emphasize continuous learning, a must for growing your career.

Networking Opportunities

BSN programs help students connect with peers, faculty, and healthcare professionals, creating a valuable support network. You may find a mentor, a role model who can guide your professional development. You may also learn about potential job openings through word-of-mouth referrals while cultivating personal and professional recommendations.

Research Opportunities

Nursing research is among the topics that associate degree programs don’t address in-depth. BSN education, however, introduces you to research concepts. You’ll be better equipped to establish studies, evaluate research findings, and collaborate with academic professionals. Having a BSN qualifies you for jobs as a research or clinical trial coordinator.

Leadership Development 

BSN programs make the most of your leadership abilities, cultivating critical skills through classroom education, clinical experiences, and self-reflection. You’ll be encouraged to build on your strengths, identify your weaknesses and develop the self-awareness required of leaders. No degree guarantees you a leadership position, but earning a BSN puts you in the best position to move up the career ladder.

Final Thoughts

All RNs have the same professional license. They work side-by-side in the same facilitates doing similar tasks. But with knowledge that only BSN programs can provide, only bachelor’s-educated nurses have an inside track to professional growth. Every accomplishment in nursing begins with the decision to learn.

RN to BSN Program

The RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing/RN-BSN program provides professionals currently licensed as registered nurses the flexibility of online study to build upon the knowledge gained through previous training and education. The RN to BSN program assists college students with developing the core knowledge and skills needed to provide patient-centered care and to work collaboratively with other professionals in the field.

*While Gwinnett Institute provides test preparation and review assistance to college students, it cannot guarantee any college student will be able to take or pass any type of licensure exam. College students must be mindful throughout their entire training program that licensure is a prerequisite for employment as a nurse and to diligently prepare themselves to meet this important requirement.

Contact us today to learn more about becoming a bachelor’s degree in Orlando at Gwinnett Institute.

How Can I Improve Myself as a Medical Assistant?

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Self-reflection is a tool for success. Assessing your strengths and weaknesses can be the first step toward achieving your life goals. If you’re not happy with your accomplishments and want to feel better about who you are and what you contribute to the community, you can improve yourself as a person and a professional by becoming a medical assistant.

How Can I Improve Myself as a Medical Assistant?

Human beings thrive on achievement. But dead-end jobs rob us of the chance to succeed. If you feel stuck in your work life, bored and underutilized, you’re not alone. Becoming a medical assistant can be a transformative experience that offers opportunities for personal and professional development. As a career, it helps you:

Overcome Fear

Making a career change is intimidating. But stepping into the unknown can help you overcome the fear of uncertainty and change in other aspects of life. As a person, you’ll learn to see challenges as opportunities. And as a medical assistant, it’s a life lesson that will help you help others cope with life-altering illnesses.

Develop New Skills

Transitioning to a new career requires learning new skills and broadening your knowledge base. But graduating from a training program is just the beginning of your journey. Healthcare is a technologically advanced field that is evolving continually. You’ll learn something new every day, becoming a more informed person and more skilled medical assistant.

Cultivate Your Creativity

Medical assistants encounter unexpected situations in their daily work. Finding creative solutions to these unique challenges requires thinking outside the box and being resourceful. Challenges at work inspire creativity that will serve you well in other aspects of your life.

Build a Secure Future

Jobs pay the bills, but careers give us purpose. The job market, however, is changing, leaving today’s students with fewer career choices as technology usurps more roles. Thankfully, the healthcare field remains robust. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% growth in demand for medical assistants through 2031. It’s your chance to build a secure and rewarding lifelong career.

Achieve a Better Work-Life Balance

The best careers promote professional development while leaving workers enough time for personal pursuits. If your current job keeps you so busy that you don’t have enough time, medical assisting offers a regular schedule with few, if any, evening and holiday hours. You’ll have an enviable work-life balance with plenty of time for family and personal improvement priorities.

Help Others

It’s possible to help others in any role, but it’s a mission for medical assistants. If you want to do more for individuals and entire communities, there’s no better way to do it than to join the healthcare field. As a medical assistant, you’ll contribute to better healthcare access and improved patient outcomes.

What Does a Medical Assistant Do for Their Patients?

Medical assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks, serving patients in both personal and practical ways, including:

Patient Care

Medical assistants provide hands-on patient care, performing a broad range of duties, such as:

Patient Intake and History – preparing patients for their appointments, taking their vital signs, updating medical history, and documenting relevant information in the patient’s health record.

Assisting with Examinations – helping healthcare providers during medical examinations by preparing the necessary equipment, assisting with positioning, and monitoring the patient’s comfort and safety during procedures.

Performing Minor Treatments – a medical assistant’s treatment responsibilities vary based on where they’re employed. But you might remove stitches, apply bandages, and assist providers with more complex procedures.

Collecting Laboratory Specimens – collecting biological samples such as blood and urine for laboratory testing. You’ll draw blood and instruct patients on proper collection methods.

Managing Medical Records – accurate records are the foundation of quality care. As a medical assistant, you’ll update information continually, ensuring that the timeliest data, including test results and treatment plans, is available to both patients and providers.

Scheduling – collaborating with the front office to manage urgent appointments. You’ll triage phone calls, prioritize symptoms, and arrange the appropriate care.

Processing Prescriptions Refills – helping patients get their prescriptions refilled, communicating with pharmacies on renewal requests.

Infection Control – healthcare settings can harbor dangerous pathogens. Medical assistants prevent the spread of disease by sanitizing exam rooms, disinfecting equipment and sterilizing surgical instruments.

Emergency Response

During emergencies, medical assistants may provide vital support. Trained in CPR and first aid, their quick thinking and medical expertise can make a life-or-death difference in critical situations.

Patient Education

Medical assistants educate patients about their health conditions, medications, and treatment plans. They provide information on preventive measures, lifestyle modifications and disease management strategies, empowering patients to take an active role in their healthcare.

Facilitating Communication

Medical assistants serve as liaisons between patients and their healthcare providers. They ensure that patients’ concerns are relayed to the medical team and that patients understand the information provided by the healthcare provider.

Improving the Patient Experience

Medical assistants play a crucial role in enhancing the patient’s experience. Ambassadors of first impressions they ensure that patients are greeted warmly, appointments are scheduled efficiently and wait times are minimized, creating a positive and pleasant care environment.

Extending Compassionate Care

The importance of compassionate care can’t be overstated. Medical assistants provide patients with emotional support, listening empathetically to their concerns and providing reassurance.

Providing Administrative Support

By helping with administrative duties, such as organizing patient records and managing correspondence, medical assistants enable healthcare providers to focus on providing high-quality personal care.

Being an Advocate

Medical assistants act as patient advocates, helping them access resources and navigate the healthcare system.

Community Outreach

Healthcare facilities are increasingly participating in community outreach efforts. Medical assistants help by educating the public about healthcare availability, disease prevention and well programs.

How Do I Become a Medical Assistant?

While other roles in the healthcare field take years to train for, full-time students can become medical assistants in less than a year by completing a vocational school program. The curriculum covers the many skills you need to succeed in a thriving industry, you’ll graduate work-ready and prepared for certification.

How Do Vocational School Training Programs Help Me Improve Myself?

There are no formal education requirements to work as a medical assistant. But healthcare is a complex and highly regulated field, so most employers prefer trained applicants. On-the-job training can help you learn practical skills. But through coursework and the student experience, vocational school programs instill the soft skills students need to become well-rounded people and exceptional medical assistants.

As a student, you’ll develop:

Confidence and Self-Esteem

Completing a vocational school diploma program instills a sense of achievement and confidence in medical assistants. With each project completed and lesson mastered, you’ll feel better equipped to handle both personal and professional responsibilities.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Vocational school programs emphasize critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As a medical assisting student, you’ll learn to assess facts objectively, make sound decisions and find creative solutions to challenging problems.

A Strong Sense of Commitment

Earning a vocational school diploma demonstrates a commitment to personal growth and professional development. This dedication to continuous self-improvement is an important source of pride and motivation for medical assistants.

Better Interpersonal Skills

Healthcare workers interact directly with patients and peers. Interpersonal skills such as empathy and compassion are essential for building strong therapeutic and workplace relationships. Every day as a student brings opportunities to practice these critical skills, which will help you better connect with people in your personal and professional lives.

A Team Spirit

Vocational schools encourage students to work together on activities and projects. Teaching soft skills related to teamwork and collaboration helps medical assisting students understand the dynamics of group work and how to contribute effectively to common goals as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

Cultural Awareness

Medical assistants serve people from all walks of life. They’re exposed to diverse cultures, contrasting perspectives and different ways of thinking. Engaging with people who have different worldviews in a setting as intimate as healthcare improves your cultural awareness and encourages open-mindedness. Soft skills training fosters cultural sensitivity, respect for diversity and the ability to work harmoniously with people from different backgrounds.

Professional Ethics and Credibility

Professionalism refers to the conduct expected of healthcare workers. Vocational school programs cover topics related to ethics, behavior, and regulation, helping future workers adapt to unfamiliar concepts. As a form of commitment, professionalism instills pride in those who work to meet high standards.

Having a vocational school diploma also lends credibility to a medical assistant’s qualifications. It assures both patients and healthcare providers that they’ve received the proper training to perform their duties safely and effectively. Like a stepping-stone, it also serves as a launchpad for future learning and career development, serving as a qualification for general and specialty certifications.

Self-Care Abilities

Healthcare settings are fast paced. The work is rewarding but occasionally demanding and stressful. But you can employ the same coping strategies you developed in school to manage high-pressure assignments to maintain your composure during high-pressure work situations. When it comes to managing workplace stress, you have no better advocate than yourself.

A Continuous Learning Mindset

In some jobs, training is once-and-done. But in healthcare, continuing education is a requirement. You’ll learn a lot on the job, but you’ll need to take advantage of educational offerings from seminars to online courses. Vocational schools encourage students to embrace every learning opportunity, setting the stage for a continuous learning mindset and effective career advancement.

Leadership Potential

Vocational schools play a significant role in building leadership potential among their students by incorporating leadership development programs and activities into the curriculum and campus life. Through classroom projects, extracurricular activities, and mentorship programs, they prepare graduates for future career growth and leadership positions.

Final Thoughts

Self-improvement is a personal journey that only you can define. But because your career is such an important part of who you are, rethinking what you do for work can spark personal and professional growth. So, why stagnate when you can move forward by training as a medical assistant? Improving yourself is less about who you are now than what you choose to be.

Medical Assistant Program

Ready to start a new career as a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training at multiple campuses from Lilburn, Sandy Springs and Atlanta/Marietta to Orlando, FL and Raleigh, NC. The core curriculum at these campuses focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

Contact Gwinnett Colleges & Institute today to learn more about becoming a medical assistant.

What are the Biggest Challenges Facing Nursing Today?

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Nursing is a well-established profession. But like any field, it has its challenges. The landscape of healthcare changes continually, and nurses must adapt. It’s not always easy, but the rewards consistently outweigh the sacrifices, and every problem solved makes the profession stronger. As an LPN, you could be the change the nursing field needs.

What Are the Biggest Challenges Facing the Nursing Profession?

Nursing is enjoying unprecedented growth, and with it comes growing pains. Success is always a work in progress. But the past few years have exposed flaws in the healthcare system, bringing these critical challenges to the forefront of the nursing field:

The Increasing Complexity of Care

Patients’ healthcare needs are becoming more complex due to advancements in medical technology and a higher prevalence of chronic diseases. More than four in 10 adults have two or more serious conditions. When people are hospitalized, they’re sicker than they used to be, requiring more skill to care for.

The rapid advancement of medical technologies means that nurses must continuously update their knowledge to keep pace. And even the least tech-savvy must learn to operate and become proficient with high-tech equipment, it’s an intimidating and time-consuming process.

Today’s nurses also do more than dress wounds and administer medications. As frontline healthcare providers, they’re asked to address the many physical, emotional, cognitive, and social issues that compromise patients’ well-being and independence. It’s an empowering part of the job, but one that increases the burden on an already strained field.

Public Policymaking

Nurses play a vital role in healthcare, but while their contributions are increasingly recognized at the facility and community levels, roles at the public policymaking level are limited with predictable results.

Without nursing input, rule makers lack a comprehensive understanding of the issues affecting the field, their policies often fail to adequately address workforce challenges. As frontline caregivers, nurses have direct experience and insights into the challenges and needs of patients, families, and communities. Their absence in policymaking circles means that important perspectives and expertise are not adequately represented.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

The nursing field continues to face legal and ethical issues that are challenging to navigate.

Among the most relevant for today’s nurses are:

Scope of Practice – Each state defines the scope of practice for nurses, outlining the specific tasks and responsibilities they can undertake. Operating outside the defined scope of practice can have legal implications, but the boundaries aren’t always cut and dry.

During the pandemic, for example, nurses toiled in gray areas, taking professional risks for patients’ sake. And now that the reins have been loosened by precedent, nurse practice acts must be further refined, and the rules made clear.

Informed Consent – Nurses have a responsibility to ensure that patients understand their medical conditions, proposed treatments, potential risks, and alternatives. Obtaining informed consent from patients before providing care is crucial in all but life-threatening crises.

The concept of informed consent, however, has been severely tried in the past few years. Nurses need more legal guidance related to right-to-try, emergency, and mandatory treatments.

Malpractice – Nurses can be held legally accountable for acts of malpractice or negligence that result in harm to patients. Failure to adhere to standards of care, errors in medication administration, improper documentation or breaches of patient confidentiality can lead to legal and career-ending consequences.

As professionals, most nurses wouldn’t have it any other way. But there is growing concern that high workloads are contributing to otherwise preventable mistakes. No one wants to be set up to fail.

Cultural and Religious Competency – Nurses care for diverse populations with wide-ranging cultural and religious beliefs. Respecting their values is an ethical imperative.

Few tools are provided to nurses, however, beyond a cursory exploration of generational and cultural sensitivity issues in school. The field needs a broader decision-making framework.

Resource Allocation – Resource allocation was rarely a problem until supply chains were disrupted. And while nurses are trained in triage, few were prepared to make life-or-death decisions about access to medical equipment during the pandemic.

Ethical considerations related to the distribution of limited healthcare resources are expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Nurses must navigate these dilemmas while considering their primary role as patient advocates.

Documentation – Accurate and timely documentation is a legal requirement for nurses. Proper recordkeeping helps establish a timeline of the patient’s condition, communication with the healthcare team and the care provided. Inadequate or inaccurate documentation can lead to legal disputes and significant financial penalties for both nurses and their employers.

Writing notes, however, takes time. Software makes it easier, but the extensive recordkeeping required of nurses who would rather be providing direct care remains an ever-present issue.

The Nursing Shortage

It’s no secret that America has too few nurses. It’s a multi-factorial issue with several contributing factors, such as:

An Aging Population – As people live longer, they require more healthcare services. This increased demand places a strain on the workforce.

Retiring Workforce – Many experienced nurses are reaching retirement age, the average age for an RN is 52 years old, which may signal a large wave over the next 15 years. As these nurses retire, the number of available nurses decreases, exacerbating the shortage while providing fewer mentors for the next generation of caregivers.

This so-called “brain drain” means a depletion of specialized knowledge and expertise that affects both the healthcare and the nurse education system.

Fewer New Nurses – The capacity of nursing schools to train new nurses hasn’t kept pace with demand. Factors such as faculty shortages, limited clinical placement opportunities and lack of funding for nursing education programs have resulted in lackluster numbers of new nurses entering the workforce to replace those who retire or leave the profession. Wait lists for RN programs are an issue nationwide, forcing programs to become so selective that many qualified candidates are left behind. Fortunately, this is not the case with LPN programs. Yet another reason to become a licensed practical nurse.

Burnout – Employers are responding by offering flexible schedules, more paid time off and self-care support. And the federal and state governments are doing their best to alleviate shortages by addressing the root causes. Measures include:

  • Funding and Investment – Allocating more resources to the funding and support of nursing education programs will help expand educational capacity. On the student side, help is on the way in the form of more scholarships, grants and tax incentives that defray the cost of tuition and books. On the academic side, efforts are being made to keep educators on the job.
  • Regulatory Changes – Officials are acting swiftly to enact suggestions made by nurses to draw more students into the profession and improve retention rates. Setting minimum staffing requirements and developing policies that support nursing practice and professional autonomy is expected to improve workplace conditions.
  • Collaboration and Partnerships – Healthcare organizations are partnering with the government and educational institutions to better understand the nursing shortage through data gathering and research. Further analysis should expose how key players can work together to address workforce gaps. Many hospitals and clinics are also expanding access for students to clinical sites, removing what has been a significant barrier to training more nurses.
  • Workforce Planning and Development – The US Department of Labor (DOL) is continually assessing nursing workforce needs. They’re working hard to develop strategies to address shortages, establishing committees and task forces to study the issue, set goals and develop action plans designed to train and recruit more nurses.

They’re also taking a hard look at workforce distribution. Nursing shortages are more pronounced in certain geographical areas, especially rural communities where it’s challenging to attract and retain healthcare professionals.

Economic and lifestyle factors are the biggest issues. Fewer nurses want to live where housing costs are high and amenities, including further education opportunities, are low.

Technology, such as telehealth, is easing the burden for patients but not nurses. The government is trying to help with initiatives, such as financial incentives, loan forgiveness programs and housing assistance for those willing to work in underserved communities.

The Future of Nursing

Despite ongoing challenges, nursing remains a rewarding field. The list of problems may seem long, but it’s only because it lacks comparison. The solution to most of these issues is for people who are passionate about wellness to dive into the profession and bring their ideas to the table.

If you’re on the fence, consider becoming an LPN. Unlike RN programs, training for practical nurses is accessible. There are fewer wait lists, and the academic requirements are less restrictive. Programs take less than a year to complete and you’ll graduate with a secure job and a good foundation for further education. If you love it, make it your forever-job. If you need more, having a professional nursing license improves your chances of getting into a degree program.

Someday, we will all benefit from having a vibrant healthcare system with as many nurses as communities need to stay healthy. LPNs play a critical role in that mission, and it all starts one graduate at a time.

Practical Nursing Program

Are you looking for Practical Nursing training classes in Central Florida that prepares you to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN)? Gwinnett Institute in Orlando offers a Practical Nursing diploma program that trains LPN students for positions delivering basic bedside care to patients. The Practical Nursing diploma program provides the didactic and skills training needed to take the NCLEX-PN examination.* 

*While Gwinnett Institute provides test preparation and review assistance to college students, it cannot guarantee any college student will be able to take or pass any type of licensure exam. College students must be mindful throughout their entire training program that licensure is a prerequisite for employment as a nurse and to diligently prepare themselves to meet this important requirement.

Contact us today to learn more about becoming an LPN in Orlando at Gwinnett Institute.

What is a Vocational Program?

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Today’s students are looking for alternatives to the traditional college experience. As an investment, four-year degree programs don’t always hit the mark. Training is an investment, so it should teach relevant skills that meet your career goals.

What Is a Vocational Program?

Vocational programs are practical, job-focused training courses offered by career, trade, technical and vocational schools. Tracing back to Colonial America where young adults developed occupational skills through apprenticeships, they’re nothing new.

The first modern-day vocational school that combines classroom learning with hands-on experience was established in the 19th century. Since then, the concept has been refined to apply to a wide range of training options with an emphasis on meeting labor market demands. Vocational schools train people for jobs that are available now.

What Are the Benefits of Attending a Vocational School?

Vocational schools offer personal and practical benefits for diploma and degree students, such as:

Accessibility

The college application process is complex and often cumbersome, beginning a year or more before enrollment. Applications are lengthy, students are asked to fill out forms, write essays, take standardized tests, provide transcripts, and submit letters of recommendation. It’s overwhelming, and most institutions receive more applications than they have openings. So, even well-qualified candidates are left behind despite having met the requirements.

Vocational schools recognize that all students deserve a quality education without the hassle. Admissions are less competitive for most programs, and the entire process is streamlined. Students benefit from fewer deadlines, less paperwork and an enrollment schedule that accommodates last-minute applicants.

Career-Focused Training

Career-focused training programs eliminate most of the enrichment courses required by traditional colleges. You won’t waste time taking classes that don’t teach job-relevant skills. Students in diploma programs can graduate in a fraction of the time it takes to get a degree. You’ll be work-ready in 1-2 years or less.

A Competitive Advantage in the Workforce

In a perfect world, people could get on-the-job training without sitting in a classroom. But it’s expensive and risky for employers who prefer well-trained applicants with proven skills. The learning curve is too steep to get most jobs without an education or experience. A certificate, diploma or degree from a vocational school is the competitive advantage you need to land your dream job, especially when you’re competing with experienced candidates.

Certification and Licensing Preparation

Professional certifications and licenses demonstrate competency. There’s no better way to show prospective employers that you’re a good investment.

For some jobs, such as nursing, a license is required. Other fields rely heavily on certifications. Vocational school programs prepare students for licensing and certification exams by incorporating the test material into courses.

Small Class Sizes

The hustle and bustle of college isn’t for everyone. Some students prefer a personalized learning environment where they can feel more connected to their peers.

Because hands-on training requires more individual supervision, vocational classes are smaller. Instructors have more time to spend with each student, and students have more opportunities to engage with classmates.

Career Services

Vocational schools do more than train you for a career, they help you find a job. By partnering with local businesses, they have an inside track to positions that may not be publicly posted. Career advisers work with both students and employers to find matches. The best vocational schools offer lifetime support.

What Are Some Examples of Vocational Programs?

Vocational programs include job-specific training in occupations, such as computer operations, administrative assistant, cosmetology and more. But many of the most meaningful are in the medical field. The healthcare system is expanding, and with it comes a rare opportunity, vocational schools are seizing the day by preparing the next generation of healthcare workers.

Programs include:

Medical Assisting

Medical assistants perform clinical and administrative tasks in healthcare offices, working with medical professionals and administrators to deliver top-quality care. Job responsibilities include scheduling appointments, managing medical records, rooming patients, billing, and coding, and performing diagnostic tests.

Medical Assisting programs offer a broad curriculum designed for beginners. You’ll learn about:

Anatomy and physiology — how the body is made and how it functions at the cellular and systemic levels.

Pharmacology — the study of medications and how they’re used to prevent or treat medical conditions

Clinical procedures — instructors walk you through how to take vital signs, give shots, and perform diagnostic tests.

Phlebotomy — you’ll learn how to draw blood and process samples.

Laboratory procedures — topics include how to collect biological samples and use laboratory equipment, including microscopes, centrifuges, and autoclaves

Infection control — how microorganisms cause disease and what you can do to protect yourself and patients.

Billing and coding — the use of medical codes for reimbursement purposes

Medical law and ethics — a review of the regulatory and ethical concerns common in healthcare offices

Office procedures — faxing, filing, electronic communication, and recordkeeping systems

Students are prepared for nationally recognized certifications and entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, private practices, and other medical facilities.

Medical Billing and Coding

Medical billing and coding specialists handle health insurance claims and billing duties in medical offices. Responsibilities include submitting insurance claims, tracking payments, creating invoices, and light accounting. You’ll work with administrators and peers to keep accounts in order. This program teaches:

Medical terminology — the language of medicine, including acronyms and abbreviations

Anatomy and physiology — topics are related to medical billing and include common conditions, related diagnostic tests and treatments.

The principles of health insurance — the inner workings of public, private and group health coverage systems

EHR — how to research electronic health records for medical data

Billing and coding — billing practices and the coding systems used to categorize conditions and medical services

Medical law and ethics — billing restrictions and patient privacy regulations

Graduates are prepared to work for healthcare facilities, private practices, insurers, and billing services.

Medical Office Administration

Medical office administrators handle the front-office work in healthcare facilities. They work with patients, clinicians, and administrators to direct workflow. Duties include taking phone calls, managing the schedule, checking in patients, and collecting payments.

The curriculum covers:

Medical terminology — you’ll be familiarized with the terms you’ll hear from clinicians and callers

Scheduling — how to use software to keep track of employee schedules, identify scheduling conflicts, and improve efficiency.

The check-in process — you’ll learn to collect, enter, and correct personal and insurance data

Communication —topics include electronic communication equipment, cultural competency, conflict resolution, and professionalism.

Billing and coding — the role of medical office administrators in the billing process

Regulatory compliance — how to follow rules, regulations, and best practices in medical settings

Nursing

Vocational schools may offer more than one type of nursing program. Those that are designated as colleges may offer nursing diplomas or degrees. All programs share common elements.

Student nurses learn about:

Anatomy and physiology — this is an introductory course, but the instruction is more in-depth than it is for medical assistants or medical office administrators. Students take a deeper dive into biochemistry and genetics.

Pathophysiology — how doctors identify the causes and effects of illness and disease

Pharmacology — medication administration is a large part of a nurse’s job. This course covers drug classifications, administration methods, side effects, and safety protocols.

Nursing fundamentals —include the many processes and procedures nurses participate in based on their level of education. In this course, students learn to assist patients with hygiene and mobility, manage medical equipment and perform procedures, including wound care and catheterization.

Medical law and ethics — students explore the many legal and ethical questions surrounding clinical practice from patient privacy to end-of-life care.

Massage Therapy

Not all healthcare workers wear scrubs. If you have a passion for wellness and an interest in complementary medicine, massage therapy may be the field for you. Massage Therapy programs cover the theoretical knowledge and hands-on techniques necessary to perform different types of bodywork. The curriculum covers:

Anatomy and physiology — students learn about the effects of massage on different body parts.

Infection control and safety — you’ll learn to create a safe working environment through proper hygiene, sanitation, and safety protocols.

Pathophysiology — you’ll study the common disorders and injuries for which clients are often referred. You’ll learn to recognize contraindications and safety issues.

Massage techniques — how to perform the most popular types of massage including Swedish, deep tissue and sports massage.

Business and communication skills — you’ll learn about the business aspects of running a massage therapy practice such as marketing, client retention, recordkeeping, and financial management.

After graduation, you can practice independently or partner with a healthcare provider.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a new career without the wait and pressure associated with going to a 4-year college, take a closer look at what vocational schools can offer, comprehensive training, lifestyle-friendly programs and a better future.

Want to Learn More?

Are you ready to start a new vocational career in business, legal studies or healthcare at Gwinnett College? Because you are making the commitment to seek career-focused technical training and vocational education, we commit ourselves to providing you with exceptional customer service each step of the way.  

Contact Gwinnett Colleges & Institute today to learn more about attending a vocational school.

What Can I Learn at a Healthcare College?

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Vocational colleges offer a broad range of healthcare training options for students with different aptitudes and aspirations. The goal is to prepare the next generation of healthcare workers for today’s most relevant careers. Healthcare programs are particularly popular because jobs in the medical field are plentiful. To meet the growing demand for qualified applicants, some vocational institutions teach students about medical assisting, nursing, medical billing and coding. Regardless of your interests, there’s a program for you.

Why Do People Enter the Healthcare Field?

People choose careers in healthcare for both personal and practical reasons, such as:

Making a Difference

Many students are drawn to the healthcare field because of a genuine desire to serve others. They want to alleviate suffering and promote wellness in their communities. Some were inspired by personal experiences and want to give others the same quality care they once received. While people can have an impact on the world in any industry, it’s easier in the medical field because it touches everyone’s lives.

A Passion for Science and Medicine

Students with a passion for biology, chemistry, anatomy, and similar sciences are drawn to the healthcare sector because it plays to their strengths and interests. Even non-clinical roles have a scientific aspect that appeals to the amateur researcher. If the human body fascinates you, and you’re motivated to contribute to the healthcare community as a clinical or an administrative specialist, a career in the medical field may be just what the doctor ordered.

Career Stability

The demand for healthcare services continues to expand as the population ages and grows. Jobs in the healthcare field are secure, so the training you invest in won’t be obsolete. Unlike some careers that are disappearing in favor of technology, careers in medicine will remain uniquely human.

Intellectual Challenges

Too many workers feel underutilized in their roles. But healthcare professions are challenging, requiring critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. If you like to lead, there’s no shortage of opportunities in the medical field. There’s always something new and exciting to do.

Advancement Potential

The healthcare field offers countless opportunities for professional growth. If you’re willing to learn and specialize, there’s no limit to what you can accomplish. As a healthcare professional, you can pursue different career paths from a single starting point by developing your skills. Employers and professional organizations make it easy with continuing education opportunities.

How Do I Become a Practical Nurse or a Medical Assistant?

Medical assisting and practical nursing are two similar careers with different pathways. But both begin with graduating from a healthcare college’s training program. Full-time students graduate in a year or less, prepared for licensing or certification. There’s no better value in education today.

What Can I Learn at a Healthcare College?

Many healthcare colleges offer three diploma and degree programs, medical billing and coding, medical assisting, and practical nursing. Which you choose should reflect your career goals.

Medical Billing and Coding

Medical billing and coding specialists manage health insurance claims and light accounting duties in healthcare facilities. It’s a rewarding career for someone who loves medicine but doesn’t want to be a hands-on healthcare provider.

Specialists work with administrators and healthcare professionals to handle facility finances so clinicians can focus on healing. The work involves filing insurance claims, tracking reimbursement, invoicing, and collections. Although it’s a non-clinical role, medical billing and coding require clinical training because they have a strong research component.

Medical billing and coding programs cover:

Medical terminology — you’ll learn to make sense of complex terms by breaking them down into parts.

Anatomy and physiology — geared for the non-clinician, this course helps you interpret medical reports by familiarizing you with basic body structure and function.

Health insurance models — topics include the healthcare revenue cycle, public and private insurance plans, and reimbursement strategies.

Medical coding — you’ll learn to use ICD-10, CPT and HCPCS systems to code medical data for billing purposes.

Health information technology — how to access, store, share and secure electronic health data for billing and referral purposes.

Medical billing procedures — how to prepare claims, troubleshoot denials and handle appeals within a regulatory framework.

Healthcare law and ethics — students discuss the ethical considerations and professional standards relevant to medical billing and coding from patient confidentiality rules to communication skills.

Medical Assisting

Medical assistants perform both clinical and administrative tasks in healthcare settings. Part of the healthcare team, they partner with administrators and medical professionals to deliver quality care.

The role is largely clinical but with significant clerical and billing components. Duties include managing the schedule, taking vital signs, performing diagnostic tests, infection control, and phlebotomy. As a student, you’ll learn about:

Anatomy and physiology — how the body is made and how it works at the cellular, organ and systemic levels. A more in-depth course than what medical billing students take, it dives deeper into each topic, giving medical assistants a scientific foundation upon which to base their practice.

Pharmacology — medical assistants administer many medications in outpatient environments. This course covers the most common drugs and how they’re used to treat diseases. Topics include medication classifications, therapeutic benefits, side effects, and safety issues.

Infection control — students learn how microorganisms cause disease and how to control their spread in healthcare settings.

Clinical procedures — in this hands-on class, instructors teach you how to obtain vital signs, perform diagnostic tests, and administer injections using the same equipment found in medical offices.

Laboratory procedures — you’ll learn to collect biological samples, process specimens, and use laboratory equipment, from microscopes to centrifuges, with an emphasis on safety.

Phlebotomy — students learn how to draw blood samples step-by-step, from equipment selection to patient assessment.

Billing and coding — a less comprehensive course than what medical billing specialists receive, this helps medical assistants fulfill their role in the billing cycle by coding services as they’re provided.

Office procedures — medical assistants coordinate with the front office team to handle tasks that require both clinical and administrative know-how, so you’ll learn to manage electronic communication, recordkeeping systems and other administrative duties.

Medical law and ethics — the healthcare industry is held to the highest regulatory and ethical standards. This course covers professionalism, cultural competency and ethics plus health information, patient privacy, and billing regulations.

Graduates of medical assisting programs are work-ready but encouraged to apply for certification. While a certificate isn’t required to work as a medical assistant, it makes you a more valuable job applicant and sets the stage for career growth by demonstrating proven skills.

As a career, it’s a good fit for students who enjoy engaging with patients without a nurse’s schedule or responsibilities. And through specialization, you can chart your own course through continuing education in specific areas of medicine, including cardiology, gerontology, and mental health.

Practical Nursing

A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is an entry-level nursing professional. They share many of the same responsibilities as registered nurses, but their duties are more practical, consisting of bedside care supervised by an RN or a physician.

The work includes assisting with activities of daily living, administering medications, performing treatments, and protecting patient safety. The practical nursing curriculum covers:

Anatomy and physiology — nurses need a broader foundation in anatomy and physiology than medical assistants, so this is a comprehensive course that touches on biochemistry, genetics and physiatry, the study of disease and injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Pathophysiology — nurses are integral to a patient’s recovery, so understanding the cause and effects of disease, pathophysiology, is critical. Topics include the risk factors and manifestations of disease, including genetic, social, and cultural influences.

Human growth and development — nurses care for individuals from birth through end-of-life. This course explores nursing interventions based on age and developmental milestones.

Pharmacology — medication administration is among a nurse’s foremost responsibilities. But unlike medical assistants, an LPN works with patients who are acutely ill, so more training is needed. Nursing courses cover the basics, plus medication interactions, administration techniques, and safety considerations.

Nursing fundamentals — in this course, students practice the fundamentals of nursing care, from assisting patients with hygiene and mobility to performing catheterizations.

Additional topics include wound care, tube feedings, IV maintenance, feeding techniques, assistive devices, mobility aids, therapeutic exercises and how to manage medical equipment such as oxygen tanks, nebulizers, and ventilators. Classroom instruction is reinforced during clinical rotations in which you’ll spend time caring for real patients in healthcare settings.

Medical law and ethics — nurses grapple with the same regulatory issues as medical assistants and billing specialists. But as patient advocates, they encounter more ethical issues. Expect lively classroom discussions as students examine challenging issues, from patient autonomy to end-of-life care.

Upon graduation, students are ready to sit for their state’s licensing exam, you can’t practice without a passing grade. But don’t be intimidated because vocational colleges support you.

As with medical assistants, the job market for practical nurses is bright with openings in hospitals, clinics, nursing facilities, private homes, and hospices.

Final Thoughts

Careers in the healthcare field are as diverse as the people who fill them. Whether you’re a people-person who loves science and medicine or a dedicated number cruncher with a knack for finance, there’s a healthcare program for you.

Healthcare Programs

Ready to start a new career as a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers a Medical Assistant Program, LPN Program, and Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Program to gain essential skills and training in the healthcare field.

Contact Gwinnett Colleges & Institute today to learn more about becoming a medical assistant, LPN or medical billing and coding specialist.

 

How Long Does It Take to Become a Medical Assistant in Georgia?

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Successful career transitions begin with quality training. For medical assistants in Georgia, that means getting a diploma or an associate degree. Your choice should reflect your career goals and how much time you can dedicate to school. How long it takes to become a medical assistant is up to you, but both pathways have advantages depending on your circumstances.

What Does a Medical Assistant Do?

Medical assistants manage a broad range of clinical and administrative responsibilities in healthcare settings, hospitals, clinics, private practices, and long-term care facilities. Unlike medical office specialists who have non-clinical roles, medical assistants are part of both the front and back-office teams, supporting patients, peers, administrators, and clinicians.

Job descriptions vary, but the work typically includes:

Phone Triaging Care Requests

Medical assistants assess and prioritize care requests based on the urgency of the patient’s condition. Using standardized protocols, they inquire about:

  • Symptoms — duration, character, and severity
  • Medical history
  • Self-care measures and other relevant details

The goal of phone triage is to accurately identify the urgency of the situation and direct the patient to the most appropriate healthcare physician or resource for further evaluation and treatment. It’s the foundation of timely, high-quality care.

Preparing Exam Rooms

Medical assistants prepare exam rooms for patients and physicians by:

  • Stocking the necessary medical supplies including bandages, cotton balls, tape, and scissors to name a few
  • Sanitizing shared surfaces to prevent the spread of illness
  • Providing comfortable seating for patients and guests
  • Ensuring that emergency equipment is in proper working order
  • Protecting patient privacy

Updating Health Records

Accurate records of the foundation of quality care. Medical assistants update patients’ health records at each visit, noting changes in:

  • Demographics including contact information
  • Diagnoses
  • Surgical history
  • Current medications and allergies
  • Family health history
  • Social history, including occupation and lifestyle habits
  • Current complaints

Timely updates ensure that doctors have the most up-to-date information with which to make clinical decisions.

Conducting Heath Screenings

Health screenings help physicians identify health risks. As part of a routine or sports physical, medical assistants may perform basic assessments of:

  • Vision
  • Hearing
  • Mental health
  • Cognitive function
  • Home safety needs

Taking Vital Signs

Vital signs are measurements of the body’s most basic physiological functions. Before each visit, medical assistants obtain the patient’s:

  • Temperature
  • Heart rate
  • Blood pressure
  • Respiratory rate
  • Oxygen saturation level

Abnormal readings can point to acute illness or chronic disease.

Measuring Height and Weight

Changes in a patient’s height and weight can mean trouble. Height and weight measurements help doctors to:

  • Diagnose medical conditions, such hypothyroidism and diabetes
  • Identify developmental delays in pediatric patients
  • Spot risk factors for chronic diseases, such as heart failure and osteoporosis
  • Calculate Body Mass Index (BMI) — a ratio used to calculate many prescription drug dosages

Performing Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests

Medical assistants perform a variety of lab and diagnostic tests, such as:

  • EKGs — tracings of the electrical activity in the heart
  • Urinalysis — a chemical and microscopic examination of urine sediment
  • Audiometry — hearing acuity testing
  • Blood glucose screening — an essential test for diabetes
  • Urine pregnancy screens

Patients save a trip to the hospital and doctors get the answers they need faster.

Phlebotomy

Blood tests help physicians identify diseases, monitor therapeutic drug levels, and assess the success or failure of treatments. Medical assistants can draw blood in office settings, managing the entire process including:

  • Equipment selection, from needles and blood collection tubes to tourniquets and bandages
  • Patient positioning for comfort and safety
  • Performing the venipuncture
  • Processing samples for testing and shipping
  • Patient education

Phlebotomy is among a medical assistant’s most valuable skills.

Assisting with Surgical Procedures

Doctors need hands-on assistance when performing minor surgical procedures. Medical assistants help by:

  • Preparing equipment
  • Passing instruments — handing tools to the surgeon as needed
  • Positioning patients
  • Providing emotional support
  • Bandaging incisions
  • Breaking down and disinfecting the surgical suite
  • Sterilizing instruments
  • Aftercare, including suture or staple removal

Managing Referrals

Some patients are referred to specialists, necessitating the exchange of medical information. Medical assistants streamline the process on the patient’s behalf by:

  • Obtaining prior approval from insurers
  • Scheduling appointments
  • Forwarding the necessary personal and health data, including doctor’s note, diagnostic test results and surgical reports

Billing and Coding

Medical billing specialists manage most financial responsibilities in healthcare offices, but medical assistants may participate in many ways, such as:

  • Coding superbills
  • Completing insurance forms
  • Filing claims
  • Collecting co-payments
  • Light bookkeeping

Regulatory Compliance

Healthcare offices are regulated by local, state, and federal authorities. Medical assistants collaborate with the clinical and administrative teams to ensure compliance with:

  • Patient privacy rules
  • Billing restrictions
  • Workplace safety laws
  • Environmental regulations

Inventory Management

No one knows more about the clinical supplies’ healthcare offices need than medical assistants. Inventory management duties include:

  • Monitoring supply levels
  • Discarding expired items
  • Tracking the supplies, they use
  • Reordering items when necessary

Communication

Medical assistants are physician liaisons, managing communication on the clinical team’s behalf by:

  • Returning patient phone calls
  • Reaching out with lab results
  • Offering appointment reminders
  • Reviewing instructions for diagnostic tests and procedures
  • Coordinating referrals
  • Writing correspondence

How Long Does It Take to Become a Medical Assistant in Georgia?

Georgia students have two ways to become medical assistants. The first is to get an associate degree. This is a comprehensive, two-year program that includes general education courses designed to enrich students and broaden their horizons.

The second is a diploma program that takes less than a year to complete. Graduates qualify for the same certification and many of the same jobs, but some employers prefer applicants with an associate degree. You may be eligible for jobs with greater responsibility if you have a degree or relevant experience.

For students, it’s a balancing act. Should you sacrifice a year in the workforce for more education or choose the shorter path to a new career with fewer employment options? If you have responsibilities at home and can’t afford to pursue a degree right now, start with a diploma and build on your education later. If you have the flexibility to spend two years in school, getting a degree expands your opportunities.

What Do You Learn in a Medical Assistant Program?

Medical assistant programs cover everything you need to know for an entry-level job in the field. The degree program curriculum is more in-depth, but diploma programs teach the same practical skills. You’ll learn how to perform these fundamental tasks including:

Preparation of Exam Rooms

Medical assistant programs cover the basics of patient hospitality, infection control, and safety. You’ll learn about healthcare equipment, supplies, sanitation, and inventory management. Graduates are prepared to manage the workflow in and out of exam rooms.

Measuring Vital Signs

Instructors in medical assistant programs work side-by-side with students, teaching them to measure vital signs using the latest equipment. The emphasis is on accuracy and reporting. You’ll practice with peers and patient volunteers during clinical externships, supervised work experiences in real-world settings.

Updating Medical Records

Today’s medical records are more than paper charts. Stored electronically in a digital format, they can be shared across different healthcare settings through network-connected information systems.

Medical assistant programs cover electronic health records (EHR), electronic medical records (EMR) and paper recordkeeping systems. You’ll learn to access, update, store, and share data securely. Concepts include how to take medical histories, reconcile medication lists, and verify insurance coverage.

Preparing Patients for Exams

Medical assistants play a key role in office resource management. By preparing patients for exams, they save the doctor’s time. You’ll learn to build rapport through education and hospitality while improving the quality and efficiency of exams through planning.

Performing Diagnostic Tests

Medical assistant programs cover the theory and practical skills required to perform diagnostic tests. Degree students get a more comprehensive view of anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology. Diploma programs are more job-focused, addressing these topics as part of your hands-on education. All students will learn to do ECGs and other testing with advanced diagnostic equipment, from ECG machines to microscopes.

Drawing Blood

Phlebotomy is part of both degree and diploma programs. Students learn to draw blood in office settings. You’ll practice on simulators and volunteers, studying the science and techniques integral to phlebotomy, including the purpose of blood tests, equipment selection, and patient preparation.

Communicating with Patients, Peers, and Professionals

Communication is the cornerstone of therapeutic and workplace relationships. Students are taught techniques that cultivate their interpersonal skills. Topics include active listening, communication barriers, and cultural competency. Graduates are well prepared to engage with patients, collaborate with peers, and team up with professionals.

Students also develop better communication and other soft skills simply by being students in degree or diploma programs. The small class sizes offered by technical schools are ideal for adult learners. A relaxed atmosphere is conducive to creativity and making friends, you’ll learn about teamwork through projects and other classroom activities.

Connecting with fellow students and instructors reinforces therapeutic communication techniques. The connections you make may last a lifetime. Whether you leave campus with a degree or a diploma, you’ll be a good medical assistant, a better communicator, and a more well-rounded person.

Final Thoughts

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 16 percent growth of demand for medical assistants through 2031, it’s a secure and rewarding career choice. But how you become a medical assistant is less important than getting the education that supports your personal and professional aspirations. Gwinnett College in Georgia offers convenient, comprehensive, and lifestyle-friendly options.

Medical Assistant Program

Ready to start a new career as a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training at multiple campuses from Lilburn, Sandy Springs and Atlanta/Marietta to Orlando, FL and Raleigh, NC. The core curriculum at these campuses focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

Contact Gwinnett Colleges & Institute today to learn more about becoming a medical assistant.

What Education Do You Need to Become a Medical Assistant?

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Most jobs in the medical field take years to train for. It is time that some people just don’t have. But what if there was a secure and meaningful healthcare career you could start in months? Would you be interested? If you’re ready to join a vibrant and growing industry in an essential role, why not turn your passion for health into a rewarding future as a medical assistant?

What Does a Medical Assistant Do?

Medical assistants play a critical role in healthcare settings, performing both clinical and administrative tasks to support patients, healthcare providers, and administrators. They serve as a vital link between patients and their doctors, helping to ensure that patients get the care they need in a timely and effective way.

Job descriptions vary based on employment settings, but responsibilities typically include:

Scheduling

Medical assistants collaborate with the front and back-office teams to manage provider schedules. You’ll keep things running smoothly by:

  • Making appointments for routine office visits, diagnostic tests, and procedures
  • Adjusting appointment times, handling last-minute cancellations and no-shows
  • Triaging phone requests
  • Confirming appointments and reviewing any required pre-appointment preparation
  • Preregistering patients over the phone to save time at check-in

Rooming Patients

“Rooming” is the process of preparing patients for examinations. The goal is to save the provider time by performing essential clinical and recordkeeping tasks, such as:

  • Reviewing patients’ medical histories, including primary complaints and any changes in allergies, medications, or health status
  • Conducting health screenings, including vision and hearing tests, and mental health questionnaires
  • Helping patients change into a gown for physical exams
  • Taking vital signs; blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, temperature, and oxygen saturation level
  • Measuring patients’ weight and height to determine their Body Mass Index (BMI), a metric doctors use to diagnose illness, assess risk for chronic diseases, and calculate high-risk medication dosages
  • Collecting urine or stool specimens for testing following rigorous laboratory guidelines

Administering Medications

Medical assistants can administer most types of medications under a licensed healthcare provider’s supervision. The task includes:

  • Educating patients about their medications, including their purposes, potential side effects, interactions, and contraindications
  • Describing the administration process
  • Obtaining informed consent for treatment
  • Applying topical treatments, including ointments and patches
  • Giving injections, such as childhood immunizations, seasonal vaccines, and allergy shots

Drawing Blood

Drawing blood, or phlebotomy, is a routine procedure in many healthcare offices. As a medical assistant, you will:

  • Draw blood samples for diagnostic testing
  • Process specimens per laboratory guidelines
  • Perform in-house testing or prepare samples for shipment
  • Manage phlebotomy supplies and workstation sanitation
  • Counsel patients on home care for adverse effects, such as bruising and discomfort

Performing Diagnostic Tests

Medical assistants do a variety of diagnostic tests in office settings. It’s a convenience for patients and an important source of revenue for private practices.

You may perform:

  • ECGs, tracings of electrical activity in the heart
  • Urinalysis, a chemical and microscopic examination of urine
  • Blood glucose screening
  • Occult blood stool testing
  • Urine pregnancy tests
  • Strep screens
  • Fetal heartbeat monitoring
  • Tuberculosis testing

Assisting with Treatments and Procedures

Doctors rely on medical assistants for help with treatments and minor surgeries. It’s a hands-on role that includes:

  • Preparing instrument trays
  • Setting up emergency equipment
  • Positioning and draping the patient
  • Passing instruments during procedures
  • Monitoring the patient’s comfort, safety, and privacy
  • Offering physical and emotional support
  • Aftercare, including specimen collection, bandage changes, and suture removal

Infection Control

Medical offices are reservoirs for dangerous pathogens. Medical assistants safeguard patient health by:

  • Screening patients for symptoms of contagious disease
  • Sanitizing shared equipment and hard surfaces between visits
  • Sterilizing surgical instruments

Coordinating Referrals

Many patients are referred to a specialist by their primary healthcare provider. You’ll assist in the process by:

  • Obtaining insurance preauthorization on the patient’s behalf
  • Scheduling the appointment
  • Facilitating the flow of health and financial information between providers

Managing Inventory

Medical assistants manage inventory, ensuring that medical and clinical supplies are readily available. Responsibilities include:

  • Stocking shelves
  • Performing manual inventories
  • Tracking supplies with inventory software
  • Disposing of expired or recalled products
  • Placing orders

Billing and Coding

How involved medical assistants are in billing and coding depends on where they work. Some coding is integral to clinical duties while other billing issues are handled mostly by the back office. In general, you’ll participate by:

  • Verifying the patient’s demographic data and insurance coverage
  • Coding superbills – documents used to track the services rendered and supplies used during examinations and treatments
  • Collecting coinsurance payments
  • Filling out insurance claim forms
  • Requesting service pre-authorizations

Communication

Medical assistants serve as liaisons between patients, peers, and providers, coordinating communication within the office. Duties include:

  • Writing correspondence
  • Calling patients with lab results
  • Relaying messages between providers and colleagues
  • Phoning in prescriptions
  • Clinical documentation

What Education Do You Need to Become a Medical Assistant?

While some medical assistants hold associate degrees, vocational school training is the norm. Comprehensive yet career-focused, diploma programs are the preferred option for most students.

Students benefit from perks that only vocational schools offer from an intimate learning setting to career services that support graduates in the job hunt. There’s no better value in education.

What Do You Learn During a Diploma Program?

Medical assisting programs teach the front and back-office skills you need to be a team player in any medical office. The curriculum covers:

Medical Terminology

A grasp of basic medical terminology helps medical assistants communicate with patients, insurers, and medical professionals. Topics include:

  • Acronyms, abbreviations, and units of measure used in medical documentation
  • How to decipher complicated medical terms by breaking them down into prefixes, suffixes, and root words
  • Common conditions, tests, and medical slang
  • How to use a medical dictionary

Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy and physiology are the studies of human body structure and function. Students explore:

  • Cellular structure — how the biochemical processes in cells support life
  • Tissue — the role of connective, epithelial, muscular, and nervous tissue
  • Organ systems — the 11 body systems, including their organs and function
  • Pathology — the cause and effect of disease and injury
  • Nutrition and therapeutic diets
  • Human growth and aging, including physiological changes and development benchmarks
  • Common medical conditions, injuries and treatments encountered in medical offices

 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of how medications work. Concepts include:

  • Drug classifications — how medications, such as analgesics, antibiotics, anticoagulants, and bronchodilators, are categorized by use and effect
  • Side effects, interactions, and safety concerns
  • Dosage calculations — factors affecting how dosages are determined
  • Medication administration methods, including how to give subcutaneous, intramuscular, and intradermal injections
  • Managing serious adverse reactions, such as anaphylaxis
  • How to teach patients about their medications, including safety, storage, and self-administration techniques

Phlebotomy

Medical assisting students learn the art of phlebotomy, including the theory and practical skills needed to draw blood. Topics in this hands-on course cover:

  • Universal precautions — how to protect yourself, patients, and peers from bloodborne pathogens using personal protective equipment
  • Laboratory safety rules
  • Venipuncture — how to obtain blood from veins, practicing on simulators and volunteers
  • Phlebotomy equipment — the needles, collection tubes and other supplies required to draw blood
  • Sample processing — how to label, prepare, and ship specimens

Electrocardiography

Electrocardiograms are essential tests for diagnosing heart problems, including heart attacks, cardiomyopathy, and life-threatening dysrhythmias. Step-by-step, students learn to:

  • Position patients for testing
  • Place electrode pads and leads
  • Take and record tracings
  • Care for equipment, including calibration and troubleshooting
  • Identify abnormal readings

Medical Office Procedures

Medical offices are held to a higher standard than most businesses, so procedures vary significantly. Programs cover both the theory and practical skills necessary to succeed in a healthcare environment, including:

  • The healthcare revenue cycle — how medical providers are paid
  • Public and commercial insurance models
  • Medical coding systems — ICD-10, CPT and HCPCS
  • Billing — how to fill out insurance forms and submit claims
  • Basic accounting principles
  • Practice management software
  • Inventory and waste reduction strategies
  • Recordkeeping systems, including Electronic Heath Records (EHR)
  • Customer care — how to build rapport with patients
  • Setting up telehealth consultations
  • Regulatory compliance — the environmental, safety, privacy, and billing regulations integral to a medical assistant’s responsibilities

Clinical Procedures

Medical assistants participate in a broad range of clinical procedures. Programs offer a clear overview of:

  • Infection control principles, including medical and surgical asepsis
  • Sanitation, disinfection, and equipment sterilization techniques
  • Specimen collection
  • How to take vital signs
  • Intake interviews
  • Instrument selection for surgical procedures
  • Operative protocols, including instrument handling
  • Exam room equipment and supplies
  • Equipment maintenance, care, and calibration
  • Patient safety
  • Emergency response

Medical Law and Ethics

There are many legal and ethical issues to consider in healthcare facilities. Medical assisting students discuss:

  • Medical guardianship and healthcare powers-of-attorney
  • Advanced directives
  • Patient rights and responsibilities
  • Informed consent
  • Federal regulations for the security and use of health information
  • Billing restrictions and illegal practices
  • Mandatory reporting
  • Cultural competency
  • Communication and burnout issues
  • Ethical issues, such as euthanasia

Final Thoughts

Training for a healthcare career can seem like a dream to people who can’t spend years in a classroom. But not all roles require a college degree. With vocational training, you can become a medical assistant in less time than it takes for some flowers to bloom. Isn’t it time for you to blossom?

Medical Assistant Program

Ready to start a new career as a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training at multiple campuses from Lilburn, Sandy Springs and Atlanta/Marietta to Orlando, FL and Raleigh, NC. The core curriculum at these campuses focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

Contact Gwinnett College today to learn more about becoming a medical assistant.

How Do I Become a Nurse in Orlando?

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Central Florida is America’s destination for fun in the sun. However, it’s also home to world-class medical facilities and nurse education programs. Technical colleges in the Orlando area offer practical nursing diploma programs and networking opportunities with local healthcare providers. If you’re ready for a rewarding career in the nursing field, there’s no better place to live, learn and work than Orlando.

What Does an LPN Do?

Licensed practical nurses (LPN) are entry-level healthcare professionals who provide basic nursing care under the supervision of a doctor or a registered nurse. Employed by hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and home health agencies, their responsibilities include:

Personal Care

Practical nurses help patients with activities of daily living, eating, bathing, dressing, and using the toilet safely.

Patient Monitoring

LPNs observe patients for changes in condition, reporting any abnormal findings to an RN or physician for follow-up.

Medication Administration

Nurses step in when patients can’t take their medications safely, administering drugs and monitoring for side effects. In Orlando, LPNs can give all types of medications, including most IV preparations.

Pain Management

Practical nurses assess patients for pain considerations, administer medications and employ non-pharmacological interventions as needed.

Wound Care and Treatments

Practical nurses perform complex wound care and a wide range of treatments under a physician’s order, such as:

  • Vital signs
  • Urinary Catheterization
  • Specimen collection
  • Blood glucose testing
  • Tube feeding and nasogastric tube care
  • Ventilator management
  • Pacemaker checks
  • Tracheostomy care
  • Oxygen administration
  • Enemas
  • Bandage changes
  • Suture removal
  • First aid and CPR
  • Colostomy care

Emotional Support

LPNs provide emotional support to patients and their families, offering comfort, sympathy, and reassurance during tough times.

Documentation

Documentation is an important legal and professional responsibility for nurses. LPNs write notes to convey their observations about a patient’s condition, ensuring continuity of care from day to day.

Supervising Paraprofessional Staff

Practical nurses supervise paraprofessional team members, such as nursing assistants and dietary aides, keeping everyone accountable and on the same page.

Patient Education

LPNs provide health education to patients and their families, offering guidance on safety, medications, preventive care, and chronic disease management.

How Do I Become a Nurse in Orlando?

Nurses have decisions to make when it comes to education, but for practical nurses, it’s a simple choice. Technical colleges in Orlando offer diploma programs that prepare students for licensure and employment in any healthcare setting. The curriculum is as comprehensive as any other nursing program. Graduates qualify for most of the same jobs as their peers with degrees, but you’ll be out of the classroom and into the field in half the time.

What Will I Learn in an LPN diploma program?

Practical nursing programs cover these topics and more:

Vocational Role and Functions for Practical Nurses

State boards of nursing set training requirements for the nursing field, determining the scope of practice for practical, registered ,and advanced practice nurses, regulations are a little different in Orlando versus Atlanta. And while RNs and LPNs work collaboratively in most settings, their responsibilities vary based on their level of education.

RNs assume higher levels of responsibility, coordinating the care provided by LPNs and other healthcare team members. LPNs manage most bedside care, tackling less complex clinical tasks while supervising paraprofessional aides.

This course reviews the practical nurse’s vocational role and how LPNs function in different healthcare settings. Topics include nurse education and licensure, rights and responsibilities, continuing education requirements, and leadership opportunities.

Body Structure and Function

Body structure and function training explores the anatomy and physiology of the human body in ways that relate directly to an LPN’s responsibilities. Topics include anatomical structure, basic physiological processes and pathophysiology, changes in anatomy and physiology due to disease or injury. A foundational course, it examines the science behind what nurses do.

Foundations and Fundamentals of Nursing Care

The foundations and fundamentals of nursing care encompass the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and competent basic nursing care. Through a fusion of classroom work, laboratory exercise and clinical experiences, you’ll learn about:

  • Basic nursing skills, such as taking vital signs, performing physical assessments and wound care.
  • Patient safety and adaptive equipment use.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills – how to connect with patients and collaborate with peers.
  • Health promotion and home care strategies.
  • Cultural competency – how to care for people from diverse backgrounds while respecting their cultural beliefs, values, and practices.
  • Professionalism and ethics – nursing standards, codes of ethics and the regulations governing nursing practice.

Infection Control

LPNs play a vital role in infection control. This course delves into the protocols and guidelines that minimize the spread of infections in healthcare settings.

Topics include:

Microbiology — the study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi and how they spread disease.

Personal protection — the use and disposal of personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental sanitation, and transmission-based precaution measures.

Infection assessment — how to interpret signs and symptoms, including abnormal laboratory results.

Treatments for infections, including antibiotics, debridement, and other surgical interventions.

Outbreak management — how outbreaks are detected, reported, managed, and investigated at the public level.

Human Growth and Development

Human growth and development are a broad topic covering the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs of humans, from infancy to old age. You’ll be well-prepared to care for people of all ages. Discussion includes:

  • Human development theories
  • Developmental milestones
  • Age-related physical and psychosocial changes
  • The effects of chronic illness
  • End-of-life care

Personal and Family Care in Multiple Environments

Practical nurses work in a broad range of healthcare settings with unique medical, safety, and regulatory challenges. LPNs learn to provide personal care across multiple environments. Topics include:

  • Activities of daily living – bathing, dressing, and grooming.
  • Recreation and transportation needs.
  • Palliative and end-of-life care.
  • Mobility and transfers, including the use of assistive devices, such as walkers and wheelchairs, and the techniques, body mechanics, and ergonomics necessary to transfer physically dependent persons.
  • Nutrition and hydration – therapeutic diets, tube feedings and healthy eating habits.
  • Home care – patient independence and autonomy, individual and family support, care coordination and community services.

Mental Health Concepts

Many US adults are living with a mental health disorder. This course equips practical nurses to provide safe, effective, and holistic care to patients with psychiatric or behavioral issues. You’ll learn how to:

  • Conduct a comprehensive mental health assessment
  • Recognize common cognitive, psychological, and behavioral disorders
  • Communicate with patients in crisis
  • Manage drug and behavioral treatments
  • Employ mental health promotion strategies

What Are the Benefits of Getting a Diploma Versus a Degree?

There are two ways to start working in the nursing field. You can enroll in an associate or bachelor’s degree program to become a registered nurse, or you can be work-ready in months, not years, with a vocational school diploma.

Which you choose should reflect your aspirations and career goals, but diploma programs are:

Shorter

Technical college diploma programs take about a year to complete. It can take 2 or more years to get an associate degree.

If your heart is set on becoming a registered nurse, enroll in a degree program. However, if you plan to opt out of school after a year and apply for LPN credentials, you’re wasting time and money. Fulfilling the prerequisite, elective and general education courses alone can take a full year before starting core nursing classes.

Easier to Get Into

Nursing degree programs are highly competitive, there are far fewer openings than students seeking training. Most colleges have stringent academic requirements that many students don’t meet, you may have to retake the chemistry class you barely passed in high school to reach the minimum grade requirement.

And wait lists are long, even for the most qualified candidates. Technical college programs are easier to get into because the curriculum is streamlined, so the admissions process is more flexible. New programs may start quarterly instead of annually.

Career-Focused

Some students become practical nurses to make money or gain experience while studying to be registered nurses. For others, being an LPN is their calling. If you want a more intimate nursing role providing bedside care, why spend the time to cultivate skills you don’t need? Technical college programs focus on the skills applicable to a practical nursing career.

Hands-On

Practical nursing is an experiential field in which skills are built through observation and practice. Vocational schools emphasize hands-on learning and clinical experiences, so students who learn best by doing will thrive.

Lifestyle-friendly and Cost Effective

Vocational school programs are typically more cost-effective compared to degree programs. Tuition costs may be similar, but you can save on extracurricular fees and additional expenses, like room and board.

And lost wages as a result of sitting in a classroom longer than necessary can be significant. How much can you make in a year? Technical college training is ideal for anyone with financial obligations to meet.

Job Placement Services

When you graduate from a university, you’re on your own. Technical colleges are much more active in helping students find gainful employment. Technical colleges pride themselves in helping graduates find a job they are passionate about.

Final Thoughts

Vocational nurses are in demand throughout Orlando. The population of retirees with preventive healthcare needs is high. However, the Orlando area has the most to offer, from culture and nightlife to nature and theme parks. It’s a welcoming area to live in and perfect place to begin a nursing career.

Practical Nursing Program

Are you looking for Practical Nursing training classes in Central Florida that prepares you to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN)? Gwinnett Institute in Orlando offers a Practical Nursing diploma program that trains LPN students for positions delivering basic bedside care to patients. The Practical Nursing diploma program provides the didactic and skills training needed to take the NCLEX-PN examination.* 

*While Gwinnett Institute provides test preparation and review assistance to college students, it cannot guarantee any college student will be able to take or pass any type of licensure exam. College students must be mindful throughout their entire training program that licensure is a prerequisite for employment as a nurse and to diligently prepare themselves to meet this important requirement.

Contact us today to learn more about becoming an LPN in Orlando at Gwinnett Institute.