Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) bridge programs are educational pathways designed for CNAs who wish to advance their careers by becoming licensed vocational nurses. These programs provide a streamlined route for CNAs to further their education and training, ultimately enabling them to take on more responsibilities and earn a higher level of licensure as LVNs.

LVN Program Features

Key features of CNA to LVN bridge programs include:

1. Accelerated Pathway: These programs are typically shorter in duration compared to traditional LVN programs, as they build upon the foundational knowledge and skills that CNAs already possess.
2. Advanced Curriculum: CNA to LVN bridge programs include coursework and clinical training that cover a broader range of nursing topics than the CNA training. This curriculum often includes subjects like pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, and maternal-child nursing.
3. Clinical Experience: LVN bridge programs include clinical rotations where students gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings under the supervision of instructors. This practical training helps students apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare scenarios.
4. Preparation for Licensing Exam: Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) or an equivalent licensing exam in their state. Passing this exam is necessary to become a licensed vocational nurse.
5. Career Advancement: After becoming LVNs, graduates can take on more complex nursing roles, including administering medications, providing wound care, and conducting assessments. LVNs often have more responsibilities and earn higher salaries than CNAs.
6. Prerequisites: To enroll in a CNA to LVN bridge program, individuals typically need to meet certain prerequisites, such as holding a CNA certification, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and meeting any state-specific requirements.

CNA to LVN bridge programs offer CNAs an opportunity to advance their nursing careers by becoming licensed vocational nurses, providing them with a broader scope of practice and increased career opportunities in the healthcare field. Aspiring students should research and select a program that aligns with their state’s requirements and career goals.

CNA to LVN Bridge Programs in San Diego

The following programs offer LVN programs that CNAs can utilize to transition up the healthcare career ladder.

Fast Track Medical Training

Fast Track Medical Training Center offers a CNA to LVN program designed for experienced CNAs seeking to become Licensed Vocational Nurses in California. To qualify for this program, applicants need a minimum of 51 months of paid general duty inpatient bedside nursing experience, with 48 months in medical/surgical nursing, 6 weeks in maternity or genitourinary nursing, and 3 weeks in pediatric nursing (for patients aged 18 years and below).

This program includes 54 theory hours of pharmacology certification, a requirement for the California Board of Vocational Nursing to prepare students for the NCLEX exam. The course is taught by ICU nurses and physicians and covers anatomy and physiology, dosage calculations, medication actions, side effects, and other aspects related to patient safety and well-being.

Fast Track Medical Training Center’s CNA to LVN program provides a pathway for experienced CNAs to expand their nursing qualifications and become licensed vocational nurses in California.

Southwestern College

The Vocational Nursing (VN) degree and certificate programs at Southwestern College prepare students for direct patient care in various healthcare settings. A significant portion of the program involves hands-on lab work in state-of-the-art Southwestern College facilities.

Upon program completion, students will be able to communicate professionally and competently in healthcare settings, analyze patient data, administer medications, and collaborate effectively with healthcare providers and patients from diverse backgrounds.

The Southwestern College Vocational Nursing Program is approved by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Successful graduates of the program are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN examination to become Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs).

The program spans three semesters, including supervised clinical experience. Students may have classes as early as 6:30 am, and some evening and weekend classes may be scheduled. In addition to nursing courses, students must complete required general education courses, and basic computer skills are recommended.

Admission to the program is based on prerequisites, TEAS test scores, and GPA. The program accepts 30 students every 18 months.

The program prerequisites include courses in anatomy, physiology, child development, nutrition, algebra, and composition, along with a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.

Other requirements include a background check, drug screening, CPR certification, physical health exam, and immunizations.

The estimated cost of the Vocational Nursing Program is approximately $6,284, covering expenses like textbooks, enrollment fees, and uniforms. Living expenses, transportation, and other additional costs are not included in this estimate.

Concorde College

Concorde College offers a vocational nursing program that equips students with fundamental knowledge about the nursing profession and the healthcare system. This program prepares students to become vocational nurses who play a vital role in patient care.

Curriculum Highlights

• The program covers foundational skills for patient care from birth to the elder years.
• Includes an NCLEX-PN review to help students prepare for the licensure exam.
• Offers both daytime (12-month) and evening/weekend (20-month) program options.
• Vocational nurses provide basic care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians, performing tasks like feeding newborns, changing bandages, and more.
• Clinical experiences are integrated into the curriculum, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world healthcare settings.

Financial Aid and Accreditation

• Concorde College offers financial aid and scholarship programs to eligible students.
• The Vocational Nurse program is approved by the California State Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT).

Concorde College’s LVN program provides a pathway to a rewarding career in the healthcare field and emphasizes hands-on training to prepare students for their roles as vocational nurses.