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RN Programs in Lagrande, Oregon

Get your RN degree in Lagrande, Oregon - online & campus-based options available.

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Becoming a Registered Nurse in La Grande, Oregon

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse (RN) in La Grande, Oregon? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an RN in this beautiful city. From understanding the role of an RN to exploring local training programs and employment opportunities, we’ve got you covered.

Why Become an RN in La Grande

La Grande, located in Northeast Oregon, is known for its stunning scenery and community-oriented lifestyle. It’s a great place to start your nursing career, with numerous opportunities for growth and development. The average salary for RNs in Oregon is around $96,230 per year, and the job market is expected to grow by about 7% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more information about La Grande, visit the official city website.

Prerequisites for RN Programs

Before you can enroll in an RN program, you’ll need to meet certain prerequisites, which typically include:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old)
  • Completion of prerequisite courses (such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy)
  • Passing an entrance exam (like the TEAS)
  • Background check and drug screening

Typical Program Curriculum

RN programs offer a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

  • Fundamentals of Nursing: Introduction to basic nursing concepts and skills.
  • Medical-Surgical Nursing: Focus on adult patient care.
  • Pediatric Nursing: Care for infants, children, and adolescents.
  • Maternal-Newborn Nursing: Care for mothers and newborns.
  • Psychiatric Nursing: Mental health nursing skills.
  • Clinical Rotations: Hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.

RN Training Programs in La Grande, Oregon

Here are some local schools offering RN programs near La Grande, Oregon:

  1. Eastern Oregon University
    • Address: One University Boulevard, La Grande, OR 97850
    • RN Program Page
    • Description: Eastern Oregon University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in partnership with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). The program combines rigorous coursework with extensive clinical experience to prepare graduates for a successful nursing career.
  2. Blue Mountain Community College
    • Address: 2411 NW Carden Ave, Pendleton, OR 97801 (Approximately 50 miles from La Grande)
    • RN Program Page
    • Description: BMCC offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program that provides comprehensive training and prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
  3. Treasure Valley Community College
    • Address: 650 College Blvd, Ontario, OR 97914 (Approximately 120 miles from La Grande)
    • RN Program Page
    • Description: TVCC’s Nursing Program offers an ADN degree with a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge. The program ensures graduates are well-prepared to enter the nursing profession.

RN Employment Opportunities in La Grande

La Grande has several major healthcare facilities where you can start your nursing career:

  1. Grande Ronde Hospital
    • Address: 900 Sunset Drive, La Grande, OR 97850
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Description: Grande Ronde Hospital is a full-service, not-for-profit facility offering a wide range of healthcare services. It’s one of the primary employers of RNs in the area, providing excellent career opportunities in various specialties.
  2. Saint Alphonsus Medical Group – Eastern Oregon Medical Associates
    • Address: 610 Sunset Drive, La Grande, OR 97850
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Description: This facility is part of the larger Saint Alphonsus Health System and offers numerous positions for RNs in different departments, including primary care and specialty clinics.

RN Certification Requirements

To practice as an RN in Oregon, you must:

  • Graduate from an accredited nursing program
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
  • Apply for licensure through the Oregon State Board of Nursing
  • Complete continuing education requirements for license renewal

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of RN programs in Oregon can vary widely. On average, tuition for an ADN program ranges from $6,000 to $20,000, while a BSN program may cost between $20,000 and $40,000. Financial aid options include:

  • Federal and state grants
  • Scholarships from nursing organizations
  • Student loans
  • Work-study programs

Be sure to check with each school’s financial aid office for specific options.

Licensure Reciprocity

Oregon is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows RNs licensed in other NLC states to practice in Oregon without obtaining additional licensure. For RNs moving from non-compact states, you must apply for licensure by endorsement through the Oregon State Board of Nursing and meet all state requirements.

Get Started Today

Embark on your journey to become a Registered Nurse in La Grande, Oregon, today. With the right education and training, you’ll be well on your way to a fulfilling and impactful career. Reach out to one of the local schools we’ve listed and take the first step toward your nursing future!

Registered Nurse Degree Info

Which schools offer Lagrande RN Programs?

RN programs (both campus-based & online RN courses) are medical training programs offered by universities, vocational or technical schools, and community or junior colleges. Some hospitals even offer registered nursing training as an RN diploma.

How do I become an licensed RN?

Each state sets its own RN licensure requirements. In order to earn your RN license, you must pass the NCLEX® examination. The NCLEX® is a comprehensive nursing exam that can only be taken by graduates of nursing programs approved by your state's board of nursing.

Do I need to complete an LPN program before I go to college to get an RN Degree?

No you don't need to complete LPN training before you can get your RN license. An accredited RN Associate Degree program takes 2 years. You can earn your RN Diploma in 3 years. (BSN - 4 years, RN to BSN degrees can be 2-3 years).

Are There Free Nursing Schools in Lagrande?

The education necessary to become an RN is valuable, and registered nurses earn excellent money in Oregon. However, students can lower the cost of RN school with financial aid. There are numerous grants and nursing school scholarships in Oregon. They might not make your RN degree free but it can at least be more affordable.

Contact one of the accredited nursing schools listed here to get information about the financial aid you qualify for. Find out more about online nursing schools in Oregon.

RN Job Description

Registered nurses (RNs), regardless of specialty or work setting, treat patients, educate patients and the public about various medical conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients' family members. RNs record patients' medical histories and symptoms, help perform diagnostic tests and analyze results, operate medical machinery, administer treatment and medications, and help with patient follow-up and rehabilitation.