DCTS Standout Practical Nursing Program Sets Sights on Open House

Broomall—Differentiated by its excellent job placement record and exam passing rate, the Delaware County Technical Schools Practical Nursing Program is gearing up to welcome its next class of students in early 2022. Now is the time to learn more about how to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) by attending a virtual Open House on November 17th.

The program offers students hands-on learning opportunities, and nursing clinical rotations in facilities across Delaware County. With a 90% job placement rate post-graduation, many students are hired in their desired setting within weeks of graduation. The one-year program gives students the jumpstart in their career as LPN, and prepares them to sit for the NCLEX-PN Licensure Exam. Recently, the program achieved an 88% Passing Rate for first-time test takers.

In a 2020 study by Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, the Practical Nursing Program was identified as a top Pennsylvania higher education program for your money based on a ten-year net value.

“The need for Practical Nurses has never been greater, especially in Delco,” said program supervisor, Kate McNamara. “Our 12-month program allows students to gain experience in the workplace while they complete their classes. We offer the best value for nursing education, and it pays off for all of our graduates.”

The Virtual Open House, slated for 5 PM on November 17, will feature a full program overview, the current demand for LPN’s both locally and nationally, video profiles of current and former students, and a live Q&A session with industry professionals.

To learn more about the Practical Nursing Program, and to RSVP for the virtual Open House, visit www.dciu.org/lpn.

Former EMT Finds Pathway to a Desirable Career Choice as an LPN

A career that was not focused on helping others was unheard of for Anton Miller, 32. After his daughter was born prematurely, he fell in love with the healthcare field.

Starting his career as a Home Health Aide for Bayada Home Healthcare in New Jersey, he found fulfilment in helping older adults by dressing them, keeping them company, and improving their mobility.

“Being an advocate for my patients was one of my favorite parts of the job,” Miller said. “They might have family members that don’t reach out, or just can’t understand their diagnosis. I love being able to translate the information to them when the doctors don’t explain something clearly.”

After spending a few years working with older adults, he made the transition to becoming an EMT. “The adrenaline rush of going to a scene is like nothing else. I love helping people out. You never knew what kind of situation you were walking into.”

After 8 years as an EMT, Miller saw colleagues lose interest in providing compassionate patient care, but for him, that compassion never dissipated. He even stayed on as a volunteer EMT before moving out of the area. Then, his eyes were opened to the career path of nursing.

“My Fiancée was attending a nursing program at a community college, and watching her succeed was inspiring,” said Miller. “The Practical Nursing Program at DCTS was close to home and extremely affordable, and ultimately I will be able to apply everything I’ve learned in the program when I go on to earn my BSN.”

“The type of patient care as a nurse will be a better match for me than that I provided as an EMT. As I move through the PN Program, I’m excited to learn about the different medications, and learn the ‘why’ behind a diagnosis,” Miller said.

“I’m hoping to continue working with older adults in a nursing home setting after graduating from the program and passing my licensing exams,” Miller said. “In a nursing home, you get to see patients make progress, and that’s a really great feeling.”

“Students in our program come from all different backgrounds,” said Supervisor Kate McNamara. “Some are single parents, recent high school graduates, and healthcare professionals looking for a change in pace. Our program offers a place for everyone to succeed, no matter what their long-term goals are.”

To learn more about the Practical Nursing Program, or to register for the November 17 Virtual Open House, visit www.dciu.org/lpn.