What to Consider When Choosing an RN Program

A registered nurse, or RN, plays a crucial role in healthcare settings, providing patients with comprehensive care. To earn this title, one must first complete an RN program to help them prepare for their career and meet all necessary requirements. These programs teach nursing students how to handle the many responsibilities and situations that can arise in the medical field through education, safe practice, and real experience. 

There are several factors to consider when selecting an RN program, including program type, clinical experience opportunities, and cost. Balancing nursing school with other commitments can be challenging, and it is essential to find a program that accommodates your schedule, finances, and needs. When researching programs, be sure to take all of these factors into account to determine which one is best for you.

RN Program Types and Accreditation  

The role of an RN encompasses a wide range of duties, including treating medical conditions, developing treatment plans, communicating with families, monitoring patient progress, supervising certified nursing assistants (CNAs), and more. RN’s are a foundational part of providing medical care in various healthcare settings, and the process of becoming one takes time and dedication. 

To become an RN, one must first complete a two-year program, receive an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Because BSNs include a more comprehensive curriculum, they can often provide more career opportunities. 

After accreditation, RNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Next, they are required to apply for licensure in the state where they intend to practice, ensuring compliance with specific requirements. 

Education and Application 

RN program educational content is usually divided into these three categories:

• Teaching: This includes classroom and online lectures. In this setting, students can form a base of fundamental nursing knowledge. 

• Simulation labs: Before entering a high-risk setting, students can practice their skills in a simulation lab. This environment provides students with the chance to apply what they have learned without real-life risks.

• Nursing clinicals: After sufficient education and practice, nursing clinicals offer students the opportunity to use their skills in hands-on situations. 

Clinical Experience

One of the most important aspects of RN programs is clinical experience. While knowledge and lab practice help build an important foundation, experiencing real-life situations is the only way to truly be prepared for the realities that come with working in healthcare.

In clinical rotations, nursing students can practice their skills in various healthcare settings under the supervision of an RN clinical instructor. Gaining experience in different settings can often help you better determine the best role for you to pursue. These rotations can take place over the course of several semesters or years, depending on program type and length.

Clinical rotations can include:

• Community-based healthcare settings

• Emergency and acute treatment units

• Extended care facilities

• Maternity and childbirth services

• Medical-surgical outpatient clinics

• Mental health facilities 

• Pediatric care units

When searching for an RN program, make sure to explore the details of the clinical experience opportunities the program offers so that you can get the most out of your time in nursing school.

RN Program Scholarship Opportunities

Another crucial part of the RN program selection process is considering cost factors. Tuition costs, educational resources, and supplies can pose a significant burden on students. These financial hurdles can lead to increased stress and even the avoidance of a healthcare career entirely for some people.  Fortunately, financial assistance is available.

The Idaho Healthcare Institute (IHI) is proud to partner with the College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) in order to provide funding, resources, and facilities that empower those on their way to becoming nurses. Our organization offers scholarship opportunities to help those interested in a CEI nursing program access the financial support they need to achieve their professional healthcare goals.

We are currently offering scholarships for CEI’s LPN to RN Bridge Program. The RN Bridge Scholarship Program provides financial support to those who are currently working as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), helping them as they take the next step in their medical career. Learn more about this scholarship or apply online today.

RN Programs at the College of Eastern Idaho 

Balancing education, work, and other life responsibilities can be challenging, and we want to support you as you choose a program option that best suits your lifestyle. There are three different CEI RN programs available: full-time, alternative schedule, and LPN to RN bridge programs. 

In these programs, you’ll gain essential nursing knowledge, hands-on practice in skills and simulation labs, and real nursing experience across various clinical settings. CEI programs prepare you to hit the ground running, and graduates spend their final semester gaining one-on-one clinical experience with nursing professionals. 

CEI Nursing offers a wide range of other benefits, including:

• High NCLEX pass rates

• Jobs secured upon graduation

• Low-cost programs

• Fulfilled Idaho education requirements to sit for the NCLEX-RN

• Proven student success

Idaho Healthcare Institute Support

The process of becoming an RN takes sacrifices and commitment. Between program duration, clinical opportunities, and financial details, there is a lot to consider before choosing a program. It can be overwhelming trying to determine the right program for you, and cost factors can further complicate the process.

At the Idaho Healthcare Institute, we want you to know that we are here to help as you take the next step in your nursing career. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you as you start your RN program at the College of Eastern Idaho.