Healthcare Education Programs at Arkansas State University – Mt Home
Arkansas State University – Mountain Home (ASUMH) in Mountain Home, Arkansas, offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for thriving careers in the medical field. Let’s take a closer look at these programs:
Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)
The Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program at ASUMH prepares students for entry-level practical nursing positions. The curriculum includes coursework in nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, maternal and child health, and pharmacology. Clinical experiences are integrated into the program, providing hands-on practice in real-world healthcare settings. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
Key Features
- Duration: Typically completed within one year.
- Certification: Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN.
- Career Opportunities: Hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home healthcare services.
Registered Nursing (RN)
ASUMH offers an Associate of Applied Science in Registered Nursing (RN) designed for students who want to become registered nurses. The program covers a comprehensive range of subjects including anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and various areas of nursing care. Clinical experiences form a crucial part of the curriculum, allowing students to apply their classroom learning in clinical settings.
Key Features
- Duration: Two-year program.
- Certification: Eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN after graduation.
- Career Opportunities: Hospitals, outpatient care centers, physician offices, and community health organizations.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at ASUMH is a short-term course designed to provide students with the basic skills and knowledge required to assist patients with daily activities and basic healthcare needs. This program serves as an excellent stepping stone for those looking to quickly enter the healthcare workforce or as a precursor to more advanced nursing education.
Key Features
- Duration: Several weeks to a few months.
- Certification: Eligibility to take the Arkansas Nurse Aide Competency Exam.
- Career Opportunities: Hospitals, nursing homes, eldercare facilities, and home healthcare agencies.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program at ASUMH provides comprehensive education and training for students interested in emergency medical services. The curriculum focuses on patient assessment, emergency care procedures, and basic life-saving techniques. Clinical rotations and field internships allow students to gain valuable practical experience.
Key Features
- Duration: Several months.
- Certification: Eligibility to sit for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam.
- Career Opportunities: Ambulance services, fire departments, and emergency rooms.
Medication Assistant – Certified (MA-C)
The Medication Assistant – Certified (MA-C) program is designed for individuals who want to extend their skills as a CNA to include medication administration under the supervision of registered nurses or licensed practical nurses. The curriculum covers medication fundamentals, proper administration techniques, and legal aspects.
Key Features
- Duration: Approximately 7 weeks.
- Certification: Completers receive a certificate showing they are qualified to assist with medications.
- Career Opportunities: Nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home healthcare settings.
Phlebotomy Technician
ASUMH also offers a Phlebotomy Technician program that trains students in the skills needed to collect blood samples for lab analysis. The program includes instruction on proper techniques, safety procedures, and the importance of accurate labeling and handling of samples.
Key Features
- Duration: Short-term, often less than one semester.
- Certification: Eligibility to sit for various national certification exams.
- Career Opportunities: Hospitals, diagnostic labs, and outpatient care centers.
Medical Coding
The Medical Coding program at ASUMH prepares students to play a critical role in the healthcare billing process. The program covers medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and coding systems such as CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS.
Key Features
- Duration: Varies (part-time/full-time options).
- Certification: Prepares students for national certification exams.
- Career Opportunities: Hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and billing services.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career in healthcare is a significant and rewarding commitment. At Arkansas State University – Mountain Home, students have the opportunity to pursue a variety of healthcare education programs tailored to different interests and career goals. Whether you’re looking to become a nurse, medical technician, or specialist in medical coding, ASUMH offers the programs and resources you need to succeed. For more information and to take the first step towards your healthcare career, visit the ASUMH website or contact their admissions office.