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Program Overview
Nursing is an art and science which utilizes the nursing process. The nurse provides care with compassion, caring, and respect for the right of each client. Nursing practice involves assisting clients to meet basic needs by promoting optimal health and preventing illness throughout the life span. The nurse has multiple professional responsibilities and roles which include caregiver, advocate, educator, communicator, and manager of care. The nurse works in a variety of settings including, but not limited to, adult medical-surgical units, gerontology, psychiatry, oncology, orthopedics, emergency care, cardiovascular, and neurology.
The Practical Nursing Program prepares nurses at the basic level of entry for nursing practice. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates to practice safe, effective nursing and function as team members after passing the National Council Licensure Examination for PNs (NCLEX-PN®). A licensed practical nurse means that a person has graduated from an approved nursing program, passed the NCLEX-PN® examination, and is licensed by the state. The nurse practices within the legal and ethical framework established by the Mississippi Board of Nursing as determined by the Mississippi Nursing Practice Law and Administrative Code.
Anyone interested in nursing should be organized, able to develop therapeutic interpersonal relationships, function well under pressure, and handle emergency situations calmly.