Nursing (RN)

Associate Degree Program (368P) - Gettysburg/Harrisburg/Lancaster/Lebanon (Advanced Standing for LPNs only)/York

Receiving an associate degree in nursing (ADN) at HACC will enable you to sit for the NCLEX® exam and to be licensed by the PA State Board of Nursing. After receiving your ADN you can pursue a BSN, a Masters or Doctorate degree.

NURSING LETTERS ARE EXPECTED TO GO OUT IN MID-MARCH.

About the Program - Curriculum and Costs
Nursing Advanced Standing for LPNs
Admission Criteria and Essential Qualifications (Legal, Physical and Emotional Requirements) (pdf)
On-Line Application Instructions (pdf)
Program Accreditation
Who to Contact

Careers in Nursing - What's the Difference?
Nursing Program website (created by Nursing faculty)

Description of Occupation - Nurses work to promote health, prevent disease, and help patients cope with illness. They are advocates and health educators for patients, families, and communities. When providing direct patient care, they observe, assess, and record symptoms, reactions, and progress; assist physicians during treatments and examinations; administer medications; and assist in convalescence and rehabilitation. Nurses also develop and manage nursing care plans; instruct patients and their families in proper care; and help individuals and groups take steps to improve or maintain their health. Nurses may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and potentially hazardous materials.

Nurses need an aptitude for science and math. A respect for others, integrity, good communication skills, and acceptance of responsibility are essential. The ability to problem-solve and to commit to rigorous academic and clinical safety standards are necessary for success in nursing.

Positions in nursing require certain physical, emotional and cognitive abilities. A sample list is included on the Legal/Emotional/Physical Requirements for the Profession and Program Form. Additionally, submission of a PA Child Abuse History Clearance and/or State Police Criminal Record Check is generally required for employment.

Nursing requires the ability to apply knowledge of the human biological sciences, social and psychological sciences, and communication arts to provide health care must be demonstrated. Observation and problem-solving skills are used in planning and giving nursing care, and evaluating patients' responses to care. The ability to work well with others and to provide effective health teaching are needed skills. Safe administration of medications, use of equipment and various biomedical devises are required.

Places of Employment and Outlook -Registered nursing is among the fastest growing occupations in Pennsylvania. Opportunities will continue to increase as nurses retire. Nurses work in many settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care centers, clinics, outpatient surgical centers, home health, occupational settings and schools. Advanced practice nurses may work independently.

Salary Range for Geographical Area - $59,900 median salary in Pennsylvania 2008

Educational Advancement - Many graduates seek a bachelor's degree with a major in nursing. Continue your education with a BSN from Alvernia College, Drexel University & Online, Eastern Mennonite University, Eastern University - St. Davids, Immaculata University - Accelerated & Online, Indiana University of PA, Millersville University, Penn State University - Harrisburg, Mont Alto, York, and York College, which facilitate continuing education. Advanced practice in a nursing specialty requires a master's degree.