Practical Nursing

HCI College accepts applications throughout the year for the Practical Nursing Program. Because class start dates and seat availability may vary, prospective students should contact Admissions for the most current enrollment deadlines and upcoming start dates.

HCI College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). HCI College is also licensed by the Florida Department of Education’s Commission for Independent Education (CIE) and approved by the Florida Board of Nursing

The Practical Nursing Program is designed to prepare students for employment as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). The program includes theoretical instruction, clinical experiences, and clinical simulation in medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology and medication administration, geriatric and long-term care nursing, and obstetrical and pediatric nursing.
 
Students who meet all educational and institutional requirements may be eligible to have their names submitted to the Florida Board of Nursing for consideration as candidates for the NCLEX-PN licensure examination.
 

The Practical Nursing Program consists of 46 semester credits and 1,350 clock hours completed over four semesters. The program can be completed in approximately 16 months.

1. Complete the General Enrollment Requirements.
2. Pass a FDLE Level II criminal background check conducted upon enrollment.
3. Pass a 10-panel drug screen conducted upon enrollment.
4. Complete a pre-entrance physical examination and all required titers and
vaccinations through HCI College’s approved vendor.
5. Provide a current American Heart Association BLS Card.
6. Pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) with a minimum composite score
of 40 (please see the TEAS Policy for further information); or
 
Earn a minimum score of 70 on each of the following sections on the HESI A2
Exam: Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary and Knowledge,
Anatomy and Physiology, and Math. The results of the HESI A2 will be accepted
for up to two years after the test date of the exam; or
ii. Provide proof of completion of an earned associate degree (Associate of
Science, Associate of Applied Science, or Associate of Occupational Science
only) or higher from an accredited institution. In addition, applicants with
accepted foreign translated degrees are required to pass the Wonderlic
Contemporary Cognitive Ability Test with a minimum score of 17 or higher.

To advance in the Practical Nursing Program, students must earn a minimum grade of “B” (80%) in each didactic course, earn a minimum score of 90% on the dosage calculation test required in PN106, pass each critical skills performance for each course (2 attempts only), pass each clinical component of the program and complete the required clinical hours in their entirety, pass the Predictor Assessments, and pass the Adaptive Assessment where applicable.

Yes. A student may only repeat the same course once. If the student fails the same course a second time, they will be dismissed from the program.

Tutoring services are available to promote student academic success. There are faculty
and peer tutors to assist students with specific course content. All other tutoring is by
appointment coordinated through the Program Director/Dean of Academic Affairs. HCI College also provides online tutoring services for nursing and general education courses twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week through Tutor.com.

1.A physical examination: the medical practitioner who completes this examination must attest to the individual’s ability and readiness for work in a professional capacity as a nurse (physically, mentally, emotionally; “Essential Functions for Coursework”).
 
2. A negative PPD test and/or chest x-ray when indicated (chest x-ray required every other year with positive PPD test). Must be read within 72 hours. If the student misses their PPD reading, the student is responsible to pay all fees associated with an additional test.
 
3. Current immunizations and titers to affirm active immunity.
 
4. CPR (healthcare provider) certification by the American Heart Association.
 
5. Background screening (FDLE Level II), results must conform to the requirements set forth by the Florida Board of Nursing; results must be sent directly to the College.
 
6. Drug screening: results must be sent directly to the College. If a positive drug screening occurs without a prescription, the student may not move forward. For clinical purposes, Medical Marijuana cards are not accepted.
 
7. Evidence of annual renewal of PPD tests, flu shots, physical exam, etc. are required at the designated intervals after the individual has started in the Practical Nursing program.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and licensed healthcare providers. Some of their responsibilities include administering medications and treatments, monitoring patient health, promoting wellness and illness prevention, maintaining health, and assisting in caring for individuals who are injured or ill. The Practical Nursing Program prepares students to function as responsible members of the healthcare team while providing safe and effective patient care.

Upon successful completion of the Practical Nursing Diploma Program, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses), as required by the Florida Board of Nursing. Graduates who pass the examination may become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the State of Florida.

Yes. Financial aid is available for students who qualify (see the Program Highlights section of the Practical Nursing Program page for more information).