Interested in becoming a nurse? Do you live in the Austin, Texas area? If so, CyberTex offers an LVN program that can help you address a variety of unique patient needs 24 hours a day

Healthcare is a dynamic industry that requires an adaptable and well-trained workforce. Training to become an LVN in Texas makes you part of this system and that helps others. It is important to get to know the process so that you know what to expect. This makes it easier to become a well-trained nurse.

Start by choosing a school and learning about what they require for admission. Once you are in, ensure you are fully prepared for your classes and set aside adequate study time. After graduation, take some time to study for your licensure examination and consider taking a review class to fully prepare and have a high chance of passing the licensure exam the first time.

This article will help you learn what it takes to become an LVN in Texas, from getting into school to maintaining your licensure. With this information, you can formulate a plan that works for you to train you to become a successful nurse.

Step One: LVN Program Admission Requirements

Do apply for the LNV program, you must be at least 17 years old, and permission from a legal guardian or parent is necessary if you are 17. Those over 18 can apply for admission on their own.

Strong English skills are critical to successfully completing your LVN classes. You will be creating patient care plans, writing papers, and communicating with a wide variety of people, so solid English skills are critical. The school will want to see your GED, high school diploma, or official transcript to ensure that you meet the minimum education requirements.

Your school will conduct a background check with the Texas Board of Nursing, and you must fill out a background screening questionnaire. The admissions representative will discuss the program’s admission and dismissal guidelines, and you must sign a statement confirming that you understand them.

Aspiring LVNs will need to take a nursing admission test. You must meet a minimum score to be considered for the program. Ideally, you should give yourself at least four weeks to study and familiarize yourself with the exam.

Once you complete all the admission requirements, you will get your schedule and start date. The school will also provide a list of supplies and books needed for your first day of classes.

Step Two: Successfully Complete Your LVN Program

The  LVN training program at CyberTex can be completed in as little as 60 weeks. Throughout the program, you will learn about pharmacology, essential nursing skills, anatomy and physiology, and nursing ethics.

As you progress through your training, you will have a combination of classroom instruction, clinical instruction, and laboratory practice. All of this works together so that you learn the foundation of each topic and how to use your knowledge when you start working as an LVN in Texas.

To succeed in an LVN program, you must utilize your time wisely. Create a study schedule that works with your other responsibilities. Make a note of all deadlines and tasks so that you stay meet your expectations. You also want to ensure that you are organized to use your time effectively.

Whether you are in the classroom, lab, or clinical placement, make sure that you actively participate. This will help you understand what you are learning and see how it translates into the real world.

Step Three: Pass the NCLEX-PN Examination

The NCLEX-PN is a comprehensive examination, so preparing to pass it the first time is vital. This test utilizes Computer Adaptive Testing, which will adjust the difficulty of the questions you get based on how you have answered the previous questions. Make sure that you take several practice tests so that you can get used to the format. Throughout the exam, the questions that you get will be in the four primary content areas:

  • Health maintenance and promotion
  • Physiological integrity
  • Safe and effective care environments
  • Psychosocial integrity

CyberTex will help prepare you for the NCLEX-PN exam throughout the program and focus a class on the exam near the end of the LVN program. Instructors will be available to guide you through the curriculum, so you are ready to take the NCLEX-PN exam.

Step Four: Get Licensed by the State of Texas

After graduation, you will take the NCLEX-PN to obtain your LVN license. You will get five hours to complete this examination. All test takers will get 85 to 150 questions.. To register for the test, you will submit your application to the Texas Board of Nursing and then register for the test itself via Pearson VUE. Once you pass this exam, you will be licensed to practice nursing in Texas.

Step Five: Take Advantage of School Resources to Secure Employment

When you complete your LVN at CyberTex, our guidance does not stop when you graduate. We have staff that will help you to find your first job. We will also help you create a solid resume, conduct a job search, and get assistance with interview techniques.

Step Six: Help Others, Maintain Licensure, and Advance Your Career

Now that you are an LVN, you are helping others and positively impacting your community. You will need to renew your license every two years to continue practicing. During renewal, you will complete the application, provide your current CPR certification, and prove that you have completed all required continuing education credits.

Before you renew, make sure to check the Texas Board of Nursing website. This will tell you how many continuing education hours you need and what the renewal fee is for that specific year.

Final Thoughts

Once you get your first job and gain experience as an LVN in Texas, you can consider furthering your career. You may go back to school and become a registered nurse or higher. Keep up with your LVN licensure requirements, including continuing education, to keep your license and stay updated on the latest nursing knowledge and information.

As you work as an LVN, you will see why people say that it is a rewarding career. Because you get a chance to work in a rewarding field by helping others get the most out of their lives. It’s a win-win!

Vocational Nursing Program

Classes for the Vocational Nursing program are conducted in a student-friendly atmosphere conveniently located in Austin, Texas. After graduating from the Licensed Vocational Nursing program, students can apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN), become Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), and start their exciting new careers immediately.

Contact us today to learn more about our CyberTex Austin campus.