Valley

Program Information

What Is a Vocational Nurse?

An LVN has completed a program approved by the Texas Board of Nursing and has passed the National Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). The LVN may be employed in a variety of health care settings.

As of February 1, 2004, the passage of the HB 1483 consolidated all licensed nurses under one regulatory board, the Texas Board of Nursing, and under the authority of the Nursing Practice Act. The position statement related to the LVN scope of practice is Position Statement 15.27, The LVN Scope of Practice.

To learn more about and related links visit the Texas Board of Nursing.

Student Expectations

It is necessary to create positive, interpersonal relationships between the hospital and all people of the community it serves. A significant factor in achieving such awareness is the importance of respect for individual dignity and the need for courteous treatment of all persons regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, age, culture or economic status.

Grading System, Examinations and Assigned Work

  • The student’s performance will be evaluated in both the classroom and the clinical areas.
  • A grade of 77 or above is considered passing.

Study, Lecture and Clinical Preparation Time

  • The accelerated pace of coursework requires students to take responsibility to plan for their learning.
  • Students should discipline themselves to spend a minimum of two to four hours a day for class and clinical preparation time.
  • A strong support system is very important in order to allow students study time for learning.
  • Working is highly discouraged.

Computer Requirements

Lecture preparation will require students to access and obtain information from several computer programs via internet. The student must have basic computer skills, a good computer and printer, and high quality internet connections. The student must be able to download and print using Microsoft Office software (Word and PowerPoint) as well as Adobe Acrobat Reader. A school computer lab is available for use.

Transportation

  • Each student is expected to make appropriate transportation arrangements to be at the Medical Center for class and clinical experiences as the schedule indicates.
  • Some clinical experiences require the student travel away from the Medical Center campus. Each student will be expected to be responsible for his/her own transportation and expenses (i.e.-meals) as part of that experience.

Dress Code

Each student will follow the dress code, established by the school, for the period of time they are enrolled in the program. A professional appearance is required at all times.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

The Vocational Nursing Program is committed to the safety of its patients, visitors, employees and students. Therefore, the school will take appropriate precautions to prevent injury and loss of life and/or property, which may result from a Vocational Nursing Program student’s use of unlawful drugs or alcohol.

Employment Following Graduation

There is a continuing need for Licensed Vocational Nurses in a variety of community and medical facilities. Hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, extended care facilities, home health agencies, industrial companies, government facilities and other health care facilities may employ qualified LVNs.

Valley Baptist Medical Center School of Vocational Nursing, Vocational Nursing Program, does not offer employment assistance after graduation.