The Benefits of Starting Your Healthcare Career as a Practical Nurse

By arothstein | 2025-06-06

Interested in becoming a practical nurse? Did you know that there are many benefits to working in healthcare? If you are ready to become a practical nurse OBC offers a Practical Nursing program that you can complete in as little as 12 months

This article will review the many benefits of starting a healthcare career as a practical nurse. So, why do you want to work in healthcare?

Why Do People Work in Healthcare?

Healthcare affects everyone at some point in their lives. Many people choose to work in healthcare for different reasons. Some want to help others, while some enjoy the challenges of the job. Let’s review some of the reasons why people work in healthcare.

Helping Others

Many people enter healthcare because they want to make a difference in their community. They want to help others and improve the lives of their neighbors. Whether they are practical nurses, doctors, or medical assistants, they help improve health outcomes of patients. Seeing patients stay healthy and knowing they have a part in it is rewarding.

Job Stability

People will always need medical care, which means a growing demand for practical nurses. Hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics, and other medical facilities know that OBC graduates are work ready. Let OBC prepare you for this in demand career.

Fast-Paced and Exciting Work

Some people choose healthcare because they like fast-paced environments. Every day brings new challenges, especially in emergency medicine. No two patients are the same, and there is always something new to learn.

Learning and Growth

Medicine evolves over time. New treatments, medical devices, technology, and research shape the way healthcare workers help patients. If you enjoy learning and continuing to grow in your career, becoming a practical nurse may be the right career path for you.

Personal Fulfillment

For many, healthcare is a calling. They feel a sense of purpose in helping others. Whether comforting a patient, managing a department, assisting in a surgery, or treating a disease, their work has meaning.

Teamwork and Connection

Doctors, nurses, and support staff rely on each other. This teamwork creates strong and lifelong bonds among coworkers. Many enjoy being part of a team that works together to help patients.

What are the Benefits of Starting Your Healthcare Career as a Practical Nurse?

A career in healthcare offers many benefits, and becoming a practical nurse is a great way to start working in the industry. If you’re considering a career in healthcare, here’s why starting as a Practical Nurse is a good choice.

Become a Practical Nurse Quickly

Registered nursing programs take longer to complete than practical nursing programs. Practical Nurses can start working after completing a one-year program at OBC. You can quickly transition from learning to earning.

Hands-On Training

Practical Nurses work directly with patients. They take vital signs, help patients with daily activities, assist with treatments, and offer comfort and support to patients in need. The hands-on training gained from OBC helps them build confidence and develop critical nursing skills.

Opportunity to Work Where You Want

LPNs can work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes. This allows them to find a work environment they are passionate about. Some LPNs also work in home healthcare, providing care to patients where they live. As an LPN, you have options.

Flexible Work Options

Healthcare jobs often offer flexible schedules because medical facilities are open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Therefore, many hospitals offer day, evening, and night shifts. If you need a job that fits your schedule, becoming an LPN can provide flexibility.

Job Satisfaction

Being an LPN means working closely with patients, making their hospital stay more comfortable. Seeing your patients improve and knowing you play a role in their care is highly rewarding.

How Do You Become a Practical Nurse?

Becoming a practical nurse is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a practical nurse.

Step 1: Complete High School or Get a GED

Before enrolling in a Practical Nursing program at OBC, you must have a high school diploma or GED. You will focus on science and math courses like biology, chemistry, and algebra to prepare for nursing school.

Step 2: Research and Choose a Practical Nursing Program

Look for state-approved Practical Nursing programs like OBC. Make sure the program is accredited so you can qualify for licensing after graduation. OBC is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education.

Step 3: Complete Clinical Training

During clinical training at OBC, you will work under the strict supervision of experienced nurses and healthcare professionals. While doing rounds and working during lab hours, you will learn how to take vital signs, help patients with daily activities, and care for patients.

Step 4: Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam

To become a licensed Practical Nurse, you must pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses). This exam assesses your knowledge of nursing practices and patient care. The Practical Nursing program at OBC will prepare you for the NCLEX-PN.

Step 5: Apply for State Licensure

Once you pass the NCLEX-PN, you must apply for a nursing license at the Ohio Board of Nursing.

Step 6: Find an Entry-Level Job

OBC helps graduates find practical nursing jobs they are passionate about. We also help you build a strong resume, prepare for interviews and match you with job opportunities in the local community.

Why OBC’s Practical Nursing Program?

Selecting the right educational institution to become a practical nurse will shape your future. OBC offers a Practical Nursing program that builds your skills and increases your knowledge for a successful nursing career. Here’s why OBC stands out:

Comprehensive Curriculum

OBC’s LPN program takes 44 weeks over four quarters to complete. The curriculum covers courses including Anatomy & Physiology, Clinical Judgment, and specialized areas like Mental Health Nursing and Care of the Elderly. This structured approach ensures you are prepared to start working as a practical nurse after graduation.

Hands-On Learning

We understand the importance of hands-on learning. During the curriculum, you will use industry-standard equipment, like EKG machines, and participate in clinical rotations that put the classroom knowledge to the test in real life scenarios. This helps build your confidence when you start working as a practical nurse.

Industry Experienced Faculty

OBC only hires industry experienced faculty that know what you need to succeed. Their real-world experience and mentorship provide you with invaluable insights, preparing you for the challenges of the nursing profession.

Accelerated Pathway

The LPN program allows you to complete the practical nursing program in as little as a year. Upon graduation, you are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN® exam to become a licensed practical nurse in Ohio and 38 additional states as part of the Multi-State Compact License.

Career Services

OBC is committed to your success beyond the classroom. We offer resources like job placement assistance, making your transition easier so you can start working on day one.

Final Thoughts

Choosing OBC’s Practical Nursing program means investing in your future. And an investment in your future will offer many rewards both in a personal and professional capacity. Let OBC help you start a new chapter as a practical nurse. Learn a new vocation and help others at the same time. It’s a win-win!

Want to Learn More?

Want to make an impact on your local community? OBC offers a Practical Nursing program that will train you for entry-level positions while integrating the future of healthcare for improved patient outcomes.

Practical Nursing Program

The Practical Nursing (PN) Program provided by OBC is 44 weeks or four quarters long. The program covers theory, nursing skills lab, simulation lab, and clinical experiences. Once you graduate from the PN program, you will be fully qualified to write to the NCLEX-PN® to become licensed as an LPN in Ohio.