What are the Advantages of Going to Technical College?

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Technical colleges are becoming popular as students seek alternative solutions to traditional universities. The perception that a technical college is inferior to a 4-year university is fading fast as employers recognize the value of practical skills. If you’re interested in learning a vocation, you can choose from a broad range of training programs in industries that are hiring today.

Why Choose a Technical College Over a 4-year College?

Education should reflect your personal and career objectives. Choosing vocational training over a 4-year degree program makes more sense if:

Your Career Doesn’t Require a 4-Year Degree

Learning is always well-spent. However, education is an investment, so you want a good return on your time and money. If a four-year degree doesn’t apply to your career goals, why spend years in a classroom when you can graduate work-ready in months?

Flexible Scheduling is a Must

Unlike four-year colleges, most technical colleges offer flexible scheduling options, making it easier for students to meet their family and financial obligations while pursuing their education. Why shelve your career aspirations when you can earn and learn? Your future self will thank you.

You Need a Good Job Fast

Suppose you can’t afford to be out of the workforce for the time it takes to earn a 4-year degree. In that case, technical programs offer training in high-demand fields like healthcare, business, legal studies, and information technology. Graduates have immediate and ample job opportunities with excellent earning potential.

What Are the Advantages of Going to a Technical College?

Technical education is thriving because it meets modern students’ needs. The advantages include:

Accessibility

Technical education is more accessible to the average student. Whether you’ve just graduated from high school or want to change careers, there are fewer barriers to enrollment. Admission criteria are less stringent, with flexible deadlines and reasonable academic requirements.

Streamlined Programs

Technical schools provide job-focused training in specific trades and professions. Students get a comprehensive education in a fraction of the time it takes to get a 4-year degree because all courses contribute directly to occupational skills.

Industry-Relevant Learning

Technical colleges partner with local businesses in area industries to ensure their curriculum meets hiring standards. Employers know that graduates are well-trained and ready to fill open positions. A technical education makes you a more attractive job applicant, giving you a competitive edge against candidates without formal training.

Marketable Skills

Once common, careers are becoming obsolete, made irrelevant by advancing technology. Technical education focuses on fields that need a human touch, training students for careers with a secure future.

A Hands-On Approach

Practical learning makes education more interactive and engaging. Unlike sitting through lectures, engaging multiple senses in learning reinforces critical concepts. Technical schools emphasize hands-on activities that familiarize students with real-world skills. You’ll graduate with a sense of confidence in yourself and your abilities.

Small Class Sizes

University lecture halls can seat 200 students or more. As an individual, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. Technical classes tend to be smaller, allowing instructors to provide personalized instruction. The classroom atmosphere is more relaxed and creative. Everyone participates, and everyone benefits.

Instructor Mentorship

University professors are experts in their fields of study but not necessarily experts in their students’. Technical college instructors, however, are seasoned professionals with industry experience. They do more than teach; they mentor you as a student, easing your transition from the classroom to the workforce.

Certification Preparation

Industry certifications are the key to career advancement. They demonstrate the professional competency employers are looking for. Most technical programs prepare students for certification opportunities by putting relevant topics into the curriculum. Every credential you earn enhances your qualifications, professional credibility, and marketability.

Networking Opportunities

Finding the right job is less about what you know than who you know. Many available positions go to candidates recommended by insiders. Technical colleges work hard to provide networking opportunities with industry professionals and fellow students. You’ll create lifelong connections to support your career growth.

Job Placement Assistance

Technical colleges offer job placement assistance. As liaisons, they can help employers and graduates connect. You’ll have the support of educators and employment professionals, plus access to job boards and other value-added services, from career counseling to resume writing.

A Pathway to Entrepreneurship

If punching a time clock isn’t your style, technical colleges can prepare you for entrepreneurship. More than one massage therapist has parlayed their skills into a business. Programs cover most jobs’ regulatory and service aspects, so with experience, you can write your own success story.

Final Thoughts

Education should empower you. Four-year colleges, however, are rarely lifestyle-friendly. Interest in technical school programs is surging because they provide a quick path forward for everyone with big dreams. You’ll get the proper education at the right time and with the support you need to succeed.

Are you ready to start a new technical career in business, legal studies or healthcare at Gwinnett College? Because you are committing to seek career-focused technical training and education, we commit ourselves to providing you with exceptional customer service each step of the way.  Gwinnett Colleges & Institute is committed to providing you with information on the college financial aid for which you may qualify in addition to the other career services we provide to our college students.

Contact us to learn more about Gwinnett College today.

Do I Need a Diploma to Become a Massage Therapist?

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Are you interested in becoming a massage therapist but need to know if you need a diploma? The short answer is yes; you need a diploma to work with clients. Why? You will work closely with clients and manipulate their muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Without the proper training, someone can get hurt. Safety protocols are in place for you and your clients, so everyone stays happy and healthy.

 

Do I Need a Diploma to Become a Massage Therapist?

 

Because this profession requires advanced knowledge in various health-related topics, practicing massage therapists must be licensed within the state. A massage therapy license enables the holder to practice their techniques by verifying that they have received the education and training to work in the field safely. A prerequisite to obtaining a professional massage therapy license is to earn a diploma from an accredited massage therapy program.

 

What is a Massage Therapy Diploma Training Program?

 

The massage therapy diploma training program is a thorough and well-rounded program that prepares you to take the MBLEx licensing exam. Upon completing the diploma program, you will be eligible for professional membership in various associations, including the American Massage Therapy Association. Membership within these associations can help you learn new skills and modalities perfect massage therapy techniques, while attending training conferences and workshops.

 

What Do You Learn During a Massage Therapy Diploma Program?

 

Because massage therapy is often used with various medical interventions and modalities to treat clients, professional massage therapists must receive training and education in different health-related areas. A massage therapy program covers anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, pathology, individual massage techniques, professional business training, ethics, and universal precautions.

 

Anatomy & Physiology

 

Massage therapy techniques involve the purposeful manipulation and movement of a client’s body to achieve symptom relief and manage pain. Because the human body is so complex, you must receive training and education in human anatomy and physiology. Every body system is interconnected in many ways, and the purposeful manipulation of one area of the body may impact another. There are a variety of training techniques that utilize this knowledge to deliver a practical massage session.

 

Kinesiology

 

Kinesiology is the study of human body movement. You learn how every muscle, tendon, ligament, and bone is connected to deliver relief for your clients effectively through therapeutic techniques. Because ligaments bond the bones together and muscles are anchored to bones through tendons, it’s essential to know how they are all connected throughout the human body.

 

You also learn how each muscle contracts and relaxes and how isometric, isotonic, and isokinetic muscle movements can enhance or detract from a client’s overall relaxation and symptom relief. Acquiring enhanced knowledge of kinesiology can also help you decide which techniques would provide the best relief, depending on your client’s situation and symptoms. It can also help you identify which massage techniques may be best avoided in specific clients to prevent exacerbating pain or bothersome symptoms.

 

Pathology

 

Pathology is the study of disease and how disease progresses and manifests within the human body. During pathology training, you will learn how disease progression can change how it presents itself over time and how or why a client may become ill in the first place. This course enhances your understanding of delivering therapeutic techniques thoroughly and efficiently.

 

Taking coursework in pathology is also a great way to understand why a particular technique may or may not be advised for specific clients. Such contraindications tend to change over time as professionals obtain a more thorough understanding of disease progression. A great example of enhanced knowledge changing prescribed therapeutic techniques can be seen in how cancer patients are now thought to benefit from regular massage, whereas it was ill-advised in the past. Massage therapy is now seen as an essential component of a holistic treatment plan for those who are diagnosed with a variety of cancers.

 

Massage Therapy Skills Through Hands-on Training

 

As a student enrolled in a massage therapy program, you will gain the skills necessary to provide a variety of treatments. Hands-on training is provided in several of the most popular and effective massage techniques.

 

Swedish Massage – one of the most asked-for therapeutic techniques, Swedish massage was invented in the 1800s and is one of the first techniques you will become proficient in. This technique utilizes long, broad strokes across the entire body, providing ample relaxation and relief from stiffness and soreness. This technique also helps increase blood oxygen levels, improve flexibility, and promote well-being.

 

Deep Tissue – while this technique is similar to Swedish massage, the pressure is often applied more firmly and slowly across the body. Deep tissue massage can effectively release long-held tensions from within the deepest layers of muscle and is often used by clients looking for stress relief, lowered blood pressure, and muscular injury rehabilitation.

 

Chair Massage – focuses on the upper body and is performed with the client sitting upright. Clients who prefer this type of massage may want to reduce their stress, enhance their mood, promote better sleep, improve circulation, and even increase their athleticism. There are various benefits to chair massage, and while it may not be the most popular technique, it still brings multiple benefits to any massage therapy practice.

 

Sports Massage – professional athletes and others training for events will book a session requesting a sports massage. This massage can help athletes recover after sports-related injuries, prepare them for strenuous events, and help enhance their performance by loosening and relaxing muscles and ligaments.

 

Professional Business Training

 

Once certified as a professional massage therapist, you may need to know how to manage a spa or open your private practice. This course will prepare you for business success by providing the fundamentals necessary to navigate the complexities of running a successful massage therapy practice and avoiding common pitfalls and mistakes of small business ownership.

 

Final Thoughts

 

By choosing to be a part of this advantageous field, you will learn how to hone your skills, develop your techniques and expertise, and enjoy knowing that you are making a positive difference in the lives of others every day. By getting a diploma, you build confidence in clients and employers alike. So, take the first step in your journey and learn more about the massage therapy program at Gwinnett College.

 

Are you interested in learning more about starting a massage therapy career? Upon graduation, Massage Therapy Program students will receive diplomas and be qualified to seek entry-level positions as clinical, medical, or deep tissue massage therapists in wellness clinics and centers, spa environments including resorts and franchises, and self-employment.

 

The massage therapy training diploma program consists of a well-planned sequence of courses, each preparing the college student for the more intensive information to follow. The school curriculum includes training to provide college students with scientific knowledge, manual skills, and business mastery to become a professional massage therapist.

 

Contact us to learn more about how you can become a massage therapist today.

Why are Vital Signs Important?

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Vital signs are measurements of essential body functions. Part of a physical exam provides a quick and objective way to assess a patient’s health. Taking our vital signs is a simple and speedy procedure we often take for granted without realizing its importance. But for medical assistants and practical nurses, the process has greater significance. Straightforward yet complex, it’s the foundation of quality care. 

 

What Are the Different Vital Signs Medical Professionals Take? 

 

There are four primary and several secondary vital signs. Primary vital signs are the most essential. They include:

 

Body Temperature

 

Body temperature is a strong indicator of overall health. Normal readings between 97.8 to 99 °F suggest that the body’s internal environment functions appropriately. Fever indicates an immune or inflammatory response. 

 

Pulse 

 

Pulse is the number of heartbeats per minute. A direct reflection of heart function, an average adult rate of 60-100 beats per minute (bpm) indicates a working circulatory system. High or low readings point to a range of conditions, from anxiety to cardiovascular issues. Notes should also include an assessment of pulse characteristics, including strength, rhythm, and regularity. 

 

Respiratory Rate

 

The respiratory rate is the number of breaths taken per minute. Average values range from 12-20. Patients may, however, unintentionally alter their breathing patterns if they’re aware their respirations are being monitored.

 

Blood Pressure

 

Blood pressure is the force of blood exerted against artery walls. It’s a fundamental reflection of systemic health affecting most major organ systems. Hypertension is a risk factor for heart and kidney disease. Hypotension can lead to fainting, making it a safety concern. 

 

Secondary vital signs are additional assessments that provide a more holistic view of a patient’s condition. Examples are:

 

Height and Weight

 

Height and height are used to calculate medication dosages and assess long-term health risks associated with obesity or malnutrition. Sudden changes can also indicate disease. 

 

Pulse Oximetry

 

 Pulse oximetry measures oxygen content in the bloodstream. While not yet considered a primary vital sign, it’s increasingly considered a must-have measurement for cardiac or pulmonary patients. 

 

Level of Consciousness

 

Level of Consciousness (LOC) is an essential part of neurological exams. Evaluated using the Glasgow Coma Scale, it reflects a patient’s cognitive status and brain function. 

 

Pain Level

 

Pain level is a subjective measure of comfort. It can, however, affect primary vital signs, so knowing if a patient is in pain helps doctors interpret irregular readings. 

 

Blood Glucose

 

Monitoring blood glucose levels is essential for patients with diabetes. However, with the higher levels of obesity prevalent in modern society, routine screening for hyperglycemia among the general population is fast becoming the standard. Most practices check it using a glucometer and a fingerstick blood sample. 

 

Capillary Refill Time (CRT)

 

Capillary refill time is how quickly blood returns to the capillaries after the skin, nail beds, or mucus membranes are compressed. A normal CRT of 3 seconds or less shows circulation is brisk. 

 

Why Are Vital Signs Important? 

 

Vital signs are among a medical professional’s most valuable assessment tools. They play a leading role in patient care for several significant reasons:

 

Health Assessment

 

Changes in vital signs can indicate underlying health issues long before symptoms appear. Early detection helps identify risk factors for chronic conditions, such as hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. 

 

Diagnosis

 

Many health conditions cause similar symptoms. Doctors must hunt for clues to narrow down the potential cause. Changes in vital signs and other findings can point physicians in the right direction, resulting in a faster diagnosis and quicker care. 

 

Triage

 

Medical professionals prioritize patients based on the urgency of their conditions. But outward appearances can be deceiving. In a busy emergency room, patients with the least stable vital signs are usually the sickest and are treated first. 

 

Making Treatment Decisions

 

Vital signs are essential for monitoring the progression of illness and the patient’s response to treatment. Readings show whether a patient is better, worse, or stable, influencing treatment decisions. 

 

Safety Considerations

 

Vital signs assess health and fitness, ensuring individuals can safely tolerate activity or medical procedures. School sports physicals, for example, may help detect dangerous heart rate abnormalities in children. 

 

Calculating Medication Dosages

 

Some medications affect vital signs, causing unwanted side effects. Others, such as blood pressure medications, are routinely adjusted based on their impact. 

 

Research 

 

Vital signs are often analyzed to gain insights into health issues. Only by collecting data, for example, were researchers able to correlate high blood pressure to heart disease risk. 

 

What Do Medical Assistants Need to Know About Vital Signs? 

 

How vital signs are approached, obtained, monitored, utilized, and reported can vary significantly based on a medical professional’s role. Medical assistants should know: 

 

Which Vital Signs to Take

 

Medical assistants focus on primary vital signs, plus height, weight, pain level, and oxygen saturation. Level of consciousness and capillary refill time rarely apply in outpatient settings. 

 

Normal Ranges and Variations

 

Medical assistants should know the normal ranges for vital signs in their age groups. There are wide variations between newborns and seniors. 

 

Factors Affecting Vital Signs

 

Age, gender, physical fitness, environmental temperature, and stress level may affect vital signs, providing perspective on abnormal results. 

 

Measurement Techniques

 

There’s more than one way to take vital signs. Medical assistants should be familiar with the most common techniques and their indications, such as using a temporal thermometer instead of a tympanic thermometer for a child with a history of ear infections; scar tissue can affect the reading. 

 

And while most medical offices have digital vital sign equipment, technology can fail. Some tools, such as digital sphygmomanometers, are less precise than manual measurement methods. 

 

Equipment Limitations 

 

All vital sign equipment has parameters. Cuff fit, for example, is critical for accurate blood pressure readings. And digital thermometers may have upper and lower limits that result in errors if exceeded. Medical assistants must understand the proper use and limitations of their tools. 

 

Safety Considerations 

 

Vital sign equipment can carry germs. It’s essential to sanitize thermometers, blood pressure cuffs, and other devices as directed. 

 

There are also contraindications and precautions to consider. Blood pressure, for example, should never be taken on a limb with a vascular access port. Cutting off circulation, even momentarily, can impair fragile devices. 

 

Interpretation and Recordkeeping Protocols

 

Interpreting vital signs is beyond a medical assistant’s scope of practice, but they should be able to recognize significant abnormalities requiring follow-up. Results should be noted in the patient’s chart using universal language and approved abbreviations with notes explaining any concerns, such as an elevated pulse in an anxious patient. 

 

What Do LPNs Need to Know About Vital Signs? 

 

Taking vital signs is an essential but routine task for medical assistants. Practical nurses, however, perform clinical assessments, so it has greater significance. An LPN should know:

The Indications for Vital Signs 

 

Monitoring vital signs in acute care settings can help detect life-threatening conditions like infection and respiratory failure. Nurses must know which vital signs to take when symptoms emerge and why. Examples include checking oxygen saturation for shortness of breath and temperature for body aches. 

 

Advanced Measurement Methods

 

Medical assistants work with stable patients, so there are fewer variations in the vital sign process. However, an LPN may care for a dozen or more patients simultaneously, each with a particular need or a potential contraindication. LPNs should be more familiar with the many options available for taking vital signs and the best specialized techniques for some patients. 

 

Nurses will also rely more on CRT, pain, and level of consciousness assessments to gauge their patient’s conditions. Prolonged CRT in a critical care environment can be an early sign of circulatory collapse requiring immediate intervention, while any decrease in consciousness requires immediate evaluation. Pain, while not always an indication of a worsening issue, impacts the patient’s care plan. A post-surgical therapy session, for example, may need to be postponed for 10/10 pain. 

 

How to Make Treatment Decisions

 

LPNs are trained to make limited clinical decisions related to vital signs. An LPN can’t prescribe treatment, but they can, for example, activate standing emergency orders for oxygen based on shortness of breath and low oxygen saturation. They may also withhold medications that could harm patients pending a doctor’s review, such as delaying insulin administration for a patient with hypoglycemia. 

 

Nurses must, however, be aware of their scope of practice and legal responsibilities when making clinical calls. Deviating from physicians’ orders should always be a stop-gap measure. 

 

Documentation Requirements

 

Vital sign documentation goes beyond numbers for nurses. Their notes should indicate whether critical signs were a routine or an acute intervention and why. Evidence of follow-up with a physician or supervising RN is paramount. Notes should identify abnormal vital signs and which nursing actions were taken in response. 

 

Professional Communication and Collaboration

 

LPNs work closely with physicians, RNs, and other healthcare professionals. Effective communication regarding vital signs and patient status is essential for continuity of care. Treatments may change rapidly in acute care settings, so abnormal results should be noted and passed on verbally to other physicians. For example, a patient with a sudden fever may require immediate infection control precautions affecting all caregivers. 

 

Continuing Education Considerations

 

Vital sign ranges and methodologies change over time. Best practices are updated based on research findings. Nursing is an evidence-based profession, so LPNs should stay abreast of developments that affect how they take and interpret vital signs. Professional literature is often the best source of information. 

 

Final Thoughts

 

Modern medicine is a miracle. Still, with all the technological advancements available, the simplest assessment methods are often the best. Vital signs tell a definitive tale that brings context to an often complex clinical picture. As a medical assistant or LPN, you’ll help write happy endings. 

 

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.

 

Practical Nursing Program

 

Are you looking for Practical Nursing training classes in Central Florida that prepare 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 training program that licensure is a prerequisite for employment as a nurse and diligently prepare themselves to meet this important requirement.

 

Contact us today to learn more about becoming an LPN or Medical Assistant at Gwinnett Colleges & Institute.

Which Medical Career is Right for Me?

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There’s no shortage of reasons to work in the medical field. Secure and dynamic, the medical industry has a lot to offer. But a career should reflect your strengths, interests, and aptitudes, so choosing the proper role can make or break your success. Let’s explore the possibilities.

Why Work in the Medical Industry?

Motivations for working in the healthcare industry vary, but the benefits are tangible and too good to ignore.

Careers in the medical field offer:

Job Stability

Healthcare is an essential industry, so there is a consistent demand for clinical and allied health professionals. In a changing job market, this level of security is rare. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects growing demand for clinical and administrative healthcare professionals through 2032.

Personal Fulfillment

Contributing to the wellness of others is intensely gratifying on a personal level. While it’s possible to help others in any occupation, healthcare offers more intimate opportunities. You’ll work with physically and emotionally vulnerable people from all walks of life, helping them navigate complex health challenges.

An Intellectual Challenge

Life’s too short to be bored. Medicine offers intellectually stimulating and challenging work that requires continuous learning. You’ll have a front-row view of the latest advancements in treatments and technology. Days are never the same twice.

Role Diversity

The healthcare field offers a wide range of entry-level career paths. This diversity allows you to find a just-right role that aligns with your aptitudes and interests. Whether your passions include clinical care or administration, you have a seat at the table.

Team Spirit

Team players thrive in healthcare environments because camaraderie is built on mutual support. If you enjoy joining forces with others to tackle tough challenges, a career in a multidisciplinary environment may be just what the doctor ordered.

Professional Respect

Healthcare professionals are consistently ranked among the most respected workers for their dedication. You’ll have the admiration of patients who appreciate what you do. Peers will be equally supportive and respectful of your work, whether clerical or clinical.

Organizational Support

Professional organizations promote the growth and development of specific occupations by raising awareness of their importance at the community and legislative levels. They address common challenges on behalf of healthcare workers by collaborating with employers, schools, government agencies, and regulatory institutions to effect positive change. Healthcare workers at all levels have opportunities to join professional organizations, reaping the benefits of organizational support.

Advancement Opportunities

The healthcare field provides a clear path for career advancement. You can start in an entry-level position and build a meaningful career through experience and continuing education.

What Are My Medical Career Options?

Among the hundreds of job descriptions in medicine, these are among the most popular entry-level options:

Medical Assistant

Medical assistants manage clinical and administrative tasks in healthcare settings. It’s a blended role that bridges the gap between the exam room and the office.

Responsibilities include:

  • Appointment scheduling
  • Rooming patients
  • Taking vital signs
  • Performing diagnostic tests
  • Drawing blood
  • Minor wound care
  • Assisting with procedures
  • Tracking inventory
  • Patient education

Many medical assistants work in private practices. The remainder are employed in hospitals, clinics, chiropractic offices, and the public health sector. You can choose from positions that are predominantly clinical or primarily administrative.

Medical Billing

Medical billing specialists handle insurance claims and other financial responsibilities in healthcare facilities.

Their primary duties are:

  • Medical coding
  • Insurance claims processing
  • Payment tracking
  • Patient billing
  • Financial reporting
  • Regulatory compliance

It’s a non-clinical role that requires a medical background. Job opportunities are available in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, third-party billing services, and insurance companies.

Medical Office Administrator

Medical office administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of a medical facility or single department.

The work includes:

  • Facility management
  • Budgeting
  • Creating policies and procedures
  • Patient and vendor relations
  • Regulatory and accreditation compliance
  • Credential and license tracking
  • Staff supervision
  • Technology and information management
  • Quality improvement initiatives
  • Long-term financial planning

Job descriptions vary significantly, so finding a position that aligns with your interests is relatively easy. Entry-level administrators typically manage a medical unit, department, or office, gaining experience before moving into a broader, facility-level leadership role.

Medical Office Assistant

Medical office assistants handle front office tasks in doctor’s offices, hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

Duties consist of:

  • Scheduling
  • Checking in patients
  • Verifying insurance coverage
  • Managing referrals
  • Administrative paperwork
  • Medical transcription
  • Inventory tracking
  • Office organization
  • Medical records management
  • Patient hospitality

Medical office assisting is ideal for someone with a welcoming demeanor and crack organizational skills.

LPN

Licensed practical nurses provide primary nursing care under the direction of an RN or a physician. It’s a hands-on clinical role.

Responsibilities include:

  • Assisting patients with mobility and activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing
  • Monitoring for changes in physical condition
  • Safety supervision
  • Medication administration
  • Pain management
  • Performing treatments, including catheterizations and wound care
  • Patient and family education
  • Providing companionship and emotional support
  • Supervising paraprofessional staff, including nursing assistants
  • Documentation

Jobs are available wherever nursing care is provided. Most practical nurses, however, are employed in long-term care facilities and private homes where stable patients need long-term health management but not continual medical intervention.

How Do I Start a Medical Career?

Many roles in healthcare require a bachelor’s degree or higher. But you can launch a career in as little as one year with vocational school training. Choose from diploma or associate degree programs based on your career goals; each has distinct advantages.

Diploma programs are typically shorter and more job-focused, while associate degree programs are more comprehensive and offer a broader range of career and educational opportunities. Which you should choose depends on your career goals and field requirements.

Diploma programs are the norm in some industries, such as practical nursing. In other fields, job offerings are education-based. A diploma in medical administration, for example, leads to work as a front-office specialist, medical secretary, or records clerk. With an associate degree and relevant experience, you might find a more rewarding job as an office manager.

While no one wants to start at the bottom of the career ladder, we all must start somewhere. Diploma programs are ideal for students who wish to enter the workforce fast. You’ll be out of the classroom and into the field in 6-12 months. Graduates are qualified for most of the same certifications as their peers with degrees.

Associate degree programs take up to two years to complete. However, they may be a better option for students who plan to further their education because credits are generally easier to transfer. Many medical billing specialists, for example, go on to get their bachelor’s degrees as medical coders.

Finding the right balance is challenging regarding training, but the diploma and degree options make it possible for all students to further their education in a way that best fits their lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Few fields offer as many diverse career opportunities as healthcare. Top talent is being recruited in all positions. So, whether your gifts lie in administration or clinical medicine, your work will contribute to healthier individuals and stronger communities. Vocational school training will prepare you for your niche.

Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting program courses to gain essential skills and training to achieve entry-level positions in this career field. These courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career. All Gwinnett College & Institute campuses offer diploma programs, with the Orlando, Lilburn, Marietta, and Sandy Springs also offering medical assisting associate degree programs.

Contact us today to learn more about becoming a Medical Assistant, Medical Billing Specialist, Medical Office Administrator, or LPN.

Do You Need a Massage License in Georgia?

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Ready to become a massage therapist? Not sure if you need a license to practice in Georgia? There are some essential requirements you must satisfy before becoming a massage therapist. This article will guide you on the requirements to become a massage therapist in Georgia.

Do You Need a Massage License in Georgia?

To practice as a massage therapist in the State of Georgia, you must obtain a Georgia Massage Therapy License. The Georgia Board of Massage Therapy manages licenses and applications. To get a massage therapy license, you must complete an application, submit the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) exam score, request an official transcript from an accredited vocational school, provide proof of liability insurance, and satisfy the other essential requirements with the Secretary of State.

Do You Need a Massage Therapy Diploma or Degree?

Yes. A massage therapy diploma is required to become a licensed massage therapist in Georgia. You must complete a minimum of 500 hours of instruction for a diploma or degree.

How Do You Get a Massage Therapy Diploma or Degree?

If you want to become a massage therapist, Gwinnett College offers massage therapy diploma and degree programs at our Lilburn, GA, and Sandy Springs, GA campuses.

Massage Therapy Diploma Program

The massage therapy diploma curriculum includes training in Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, neuromuscular therapy, chair massage, reflexology, sports massage, anatomy and physiology, and business and success techniques.

Swedish Massage – a popular massage technique that combines gliding strokes, kneading, and circular movements to relieve stress and pain in the body’s muscles and soft tissue.

Deep Tissue Massage – realigns deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue in the body. This massage technique uses deeper pressure to relieve tension and pain.

Neuromuscular Therapy – targets muscle trigger points by applying concentrated pressure to relieve muscular pain and dysfunction.

Chair Massage – a form of Swedish massage for the head, neck, shoulders, back, and arms. A client sits in an ergonomic chair, and the massage therapist uses massage techniques like kneading, tapping, and stretching to relieve stress and muscle soreness.

Reflexology – a technique that applies pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, and ears, or reflex points. Reflexology relieves stress of the corresponding organ and body systems.

Sports Massage – massage to prevent and treat injuries from sports and physical activity. This massage helps to reduce tension, increase flexibility, and improve blood flow to improve overall performance.

Massage Therapy Degree Program

Gwinnett College offers two massage therapy degree programs.

The Associate of Science Degree in Massage and Natural Health is offered at the Sandy Springs campus. This degree program provides massage therapy students with the knowledge and skills to lead within a spa environment or run their own massage business. The curriculum focuses on organization and management, marketing, hospitality management, and finance.

The Associate of Science Degree in Massage and Spa Management is offered at the Lilburn campus. This degree program meets the requirements of the American Massage Therapy Association. In addition to massage therapy techniques, students will gain practical knowledge and business skills to satisfy an entry-level position in the field of massage.

Do You Need Continuing Education to Renew Your License?

You must complete 24 continuing education hours to renew your massage therapy license. Continuing education courses must be completed at an NCBTMB-approved provider. Courses must fall within the scope of practice of massage as defined by the Georgia Massage Therapy Practice Act.

What is NCBTMB Certification?

Certification by the NCBTMB is the highest credential offered within the massage and bodywork profession. Board-certified massage therapists must pass a rigorous board certification exam.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know more about the licensure requirements to become a massage therapist in Georgia, it is time to learn about Gwinnett College. We offer career-focused education for entry-level employment in Georgia community massage spas and resorts. Take the time to learn a vocation and positively contribute to your community.

Are you interested in learning more about starting a massage therapy career? Upon graduation, Massage Therapy Program students will receive diplomas and be qualified to seek entry-level positions as clinical, medical, or deep tissue massage therapists in wellness clinics and centers, spa environments including resorts and franchises, and self-employment.

The massage therapy training diploma program consists of a well-planned sequence of courses, each preparing the college student for the more intensive information to follow. The school curriculum includes training to provide college students with scientific knowledge, manual skills, and business mastery to become a professional massage therapist.

Contact us to learn more about how you can become a massage therapist today.

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.