Practical Nursing

Practical Nursing Course Descriptions

PN101                  Fundamentals of Practical Nursing - 200 Clock Hours 

This course introduces the student to the roles and responsibilities of the Practical Nurse and the fundamental concepts and processes of nursing. Students are provided opportunities to learn and develop basic competencies necessary to care for patients across the lifespan within the healthcare setting in a safe, legal, and ethical manner. Co-requisite: PN102

PN102                  Fundamentals of Practical Nursing Lab - 40 Clock Hours 

Students will demonstrate basic skills learned in PN101 in the nursing lab prior to performing fundamental skills in the clinical setting. Co-requisite: PN101

MT100                  Medical Terminology - 45 Clock Hours 

This course focuses on communicating effectively in the healthcare environment by deconstructing, pronouncing and defining medical terms. Word building rules are emphasized as a basis for understanding medical terminology. Pre or Co-requisite: PN101         

EHR101              Electronic Health Records - 45 Clock Hours 

This course will expose students to the role of the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Specialist. It will emphasize the role in healthcare operations, functions and types of systems, the latest trends, and laws and regulations governing electronic health record systems. It will serve as a foundation for certification in this role. Pre or Co-requisite: PN101

AP101                  Basic Anatomy & Physiology - 45 Clock Hours 

This introductory course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body. It covers foundational concepts in anatomy and physiology, including the organization of the body, cell structure, and tissue classification. Students will explore the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems, with an emphasis on understanding how these systems work together to maintain homeostasis. The course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enabling students to develop a deeper understanding of the human body's form and function. This course is designed for students pursuing careers in health-related fields. No prior knowledge of anatomy or physiology is required. Pre or Co-requisite: PN101

NUTR101           Nutrition and Wellness - 30 Clock Hours 

Fundamental concepts of nutrition and diet therapy. Emphasis is placed on the importance of nutrition on health and healthy living. Pre or Co-requisite: PN101

MATH101           Basic Math and Drug Calculations - 45 Clock Hours                              

This course provides students with the foundational math skills required for accurate drug calculations in healthcare settings. Topics include basic arithmetic, conversions between units of measurement, dosage calculations, and intravenous (IV) flow rates. The course emphasizes practical problem-solving techniques to ensure safe medication administration. It is designed for students in nursing, pharmacy, or other health-related fields. No advanced math knowledge is required. Pre or Co-requisite: PN101, PN103

PN103                  Pharmacology & Medication Administration - 60 Clock Hours 

This course introduces the principles of pharmacology and safe medication administration for practical nursing students. It covers the basic pharmacological concepts, drug classifications, mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, and potential side effects of common medications. Emphasis is placed on understanding dosage calculations, routes of administration, and the practical nurse's role in ensuring patient safety during medication administration. Students will learn how to interpret medication orders, use the "six rights" of medication administration, and recognize the importance of patient education and monitoring for adverse reactions. Through theoretical instruction and hands-on practice in a lab setting, this course prepares students to safely administer medications and provide patient-centered care. Pre or Co-requisite: PN101, Math101

PN201                  Medical Surgical Nursing I - 100 Clock Hours 

This course builds upon Fundamentals of Practical Nursing and skills mastered in the laboratory. Basic concepts of total care are explored in the care of adult clients with common diseases and disorders. Pre-requisite: PN101; Co-requisite: PN202

PN202                  Medical Surgical Nursing I – Clinical - 100 Clock Hours 

Practical application of total patient care concepts in a variety of acute care clinical experiences. Co-requisite: PN201

PN203                  Mental Health Concepts - 36 Clock Hours 

This course focuses on the role of the practical nurse in caring for patients with behavioral and mental health issues. Emphasis is placed on communication and the impact of psychiatric disorders. Pre-requisite: PN101 Co-requisite: PN204

PN204                  Mental Health Nursing – Clinical - 35 Clock Hours 

Practical application of caring for people with mental health issues in a variety of settings. Co-requisite: PN203

PN205                  Maternity Nursing Care - 60 Clock Hours 

This course focuses on the care of the obstetric client and the newborn. Pre-requisite: PN101; Co-requisite: PN206

PN206                  Maternity Nursing Care – Clinical - 60 Clock Hours 

Clinical application of the care of the obstetric client and the newborn. Exposure to all phases of obstetrical care is planned. Pre-requisite: PN101; pre or co-requisite: PN205

PN207                  Pediatric Nursing Care - 60 Clock Hours 

This course focuses on health management and the prevention of illness in children as well as care of the sick child. Growth and development of the pediatric client is explored. Pre-requisite: PN101; Co-requisite: PN208

PN208                  Pediatric Nursing Care – Clinical - 35 Clock Hours 

The application of basic care of the sick and/or well child. Pre-requisite: PN101; pre or co-requisite: PN207

PN209                  Medical Surgical Nursing II - 50 Clock Hours 

Nursing care of the adult patient with more advanced diseases and disorders. Emphasis on gerontology and rehabilitation. Pre-requisite: PN201; Co-requisite: PN210

PN210                  Medical Surgical Nursing II – Clinical - 100 Clock Hours 

An intensive clinical experience focuses on the care of multiple patients in the acute care setting. Co-requisite: PN209

PN211                  Medical Surgical Nursing III - 50 Clock Hours 

A continuation of Medical Surgical Nursing II. Nursing care of the adult patient with more advanced diseases and disorders. Integrates pre and post-op care. Pre-requisite: PN201; Co-requisite: PN212

PN212                  Medical Surgical Nursing III – Clinical - 100 Clock Hours 

A continuation of Medical Surgical Nursing II. An intensive clinical experience focuses on the care of multiple patients in the acute care setting. Co-requisite: PN211

Length

The Practical Nursing program consists of a total of 1296 clock hours or 99 quarter credit hours.  Both DAY and EVENING Classes are available.  Instructional and clinical hours vary according to each area of learning.

DAY CLASS:

Full-time (DAY) students can complete the program in approximately 54 weeks.

Day classes meet Monday though Thursday, from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM.

EVENING CLASS:

Part-time (EVENING) students can complete in approximately 80 weeks.

Evening classes meet Monday though Thursday, from 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM.

Fees

Please join us for our Practical Nursing Career Overview to learn more about total tuition and fee costs, as well as financial aid options that are available.    

Please fill out the CONTACT FORM and specify your interest in the Practical Nursing Program to receive information on our upcoming Career Overviews.   The Career Overview will share important details about our Practical Nursing curriculum, schedules, cost, selection criteria, enrollment process, financial aid, expectations of students in the program, and crucial next steps for those interested in joining the program.   

Admission Requirements

Please join us for our Practical Nursing Career Overview to learn more about specific admission requirements.    

Please fill out the CONTACT FORM and specify your interest in the Practical Nursing Program to receive information on our upcoming Career Overviews.   The Career Overview will share important details about our Practical Nursing curriculum, schedules, cost, selection criteria, enrollment process, financial aid, expectations of students in the program, and crucial next steps for those interested in joining the program.  

Authorization

The Practical Nursing program is authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC). This authorization must be renewed each year and is based on an evaluation by minimum standards concerning the quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety and fiscal responsibility. The Practical Nursing program is also approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.