DCTS’s November 15 Virtual Open House to Educate New Wave of LPNs

The persistent Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) shortage, coupled with an aging workforce, is the impetus for a new wave of professionals to enter the workforce. Through the 12-month Practical Nursing Program, the Delaware County Technical Schools (DCTS) combats the industry shortage by providing students with the opportunity to seamlessly transition into the workforce as an LPN.

DCTS will host a virtual open house on Zoom for prospective students to learn about their top-ranked, one-year Licensed Practical Nursing Program on November 15 at 5p.m.

“Our 12-month program gives students the chance to develop an entirely new skillset and gain invaluable experience and knowledge that can be used to advance their career. There is a severe LPN shortage across the county, and each year the demand is becoming greater and greater. It is imperative that we train a new wave of highly-skilled and educated LPNs to enter the workforce,” said Stacy Delaney, program supervisor of the Practical Nursing Program.

LPNs work under the supervision of RNs and doctors, and are responsible for providing medical care to patients that is not limited to checking vitals, administering medications, changing bandages, and maintaining communication between the patients and their caregivers. LPNs are able to work in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, private homes, extended care facilities and schools.

The program allows students to complete the 1500 clock hour state requirement and obtain their diploma in Practical Nursing, which makes them eligible to take the National Council Licensing Exam for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Once graduates pass that test, they are permitted to practice as an LPN. Through their renowned clinical facilities, simulation labs and teaching faculty, DCTS is able to prepare students for the licensing exam and ensure that they meet and exceed industry standards.

DCTS’s Practical Nursing Program was recognized as one of the top higher education programs in Pennsylvania by Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce. The program caters to individuals who want to change careers, professionals interested in pursuing additional certifications, or high school graduates seeking in-demand skills. Students will learn skills in the classroom and in clinical rotations with focus in Anatomy and Physiology, Pharmacology, Medical and Surgical Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and Obstetric and Pediatric Nursing.

DCTS has a 90 percent job placement rate for its graduates and is committed to preparing their students to excel in the workforce and meet industry standards.

“Before our students graduate, I receive calls from employers inquiring about our students' post-graduate plans. Our reputable program and magnificent instructors prepare our students to smoothly transition into the nursing field and exceed industry standards, which is why we have such a high job placement for our graduates,” said Delaney. “Because of this, we are able to promote high quality jobs for our graduates. The success of our students post-graduation is truly a testament to our wonderful instructors, simulation and clinical exercises we provide that have proven time and time again to be so effective.”

RSVP and Save the Date

The November 15 virtual open house will include a panel discussion followed by a Q&A segment on enrolling in the program. The panel will include Stacy Delaney, Dr. Briana K. Barry, the Vice President of the Pennsylvania Agency of Nurses, Te’Naja Graham, recent graduate, and Dr. Stephen Butz, Career and Technical Education Program Administrator. The Financial Aid Director, Jeanne Cavalieri-Grover, will also appear during the open house to provide information about financial aid.

To register for the event, follow this link: www.tinyurl.com/LPNOpenHouse. Anyone who is interested in learning more about DCTS’s Practical Nursing Program can visit dciu.org/lpn for more information.