Pittsburgh Technical Institute gets initial approval for its Practical Nursing program

Pittsburgh Technical Institute (PTI) announces initial approval of its Practical Nursing program by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. At its Monday, September 28, 2009, meeting, the Nursing Board granted PTI permission to offer a 12-month certificate in Practical Nursing through the career college's School of Healthcare.

Graduates of PTI's Practical Nursing program earn a certificate and are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing leading to licensure required for employment as an LPN, Licensed Practical Nurse.

Beginning July 2010, PTI's first class of practical nursing students begins a year-long curriculum comprised of classroom instruction and clinical experience in preparation for employment as an LPN, Licensed Practical Nurse, in hospitals, nursing homes, physician and dentist offices, emergency medical centers, community health clinics, and public health departments.

PTI's curriculum includes classes in Biological Sciences, Nutrition, Foundations in Nursing, Human Behavior, Nursing across the Life Span, Pharmacology in Nursing, Geriatric Nursing, Transitions in Nursing Practice, and clinical experience. Classroom instruction and hands-on labs are offered at PTI's North Fayette Campus. In-field clinical experience is provided by The Children's Home and Lemieux Family Center, Kane Regional Centers, Kindred Hospital, Ohio Valley Hospital, Southwood Hospital, UPMC Magee-Women's Hospital, UPMC Senior Communities, and Washington Hospital.

"Market demand for the LPN, particularly in Pittsburgh with its aging population, is evident," says Jeff Belsky, PTI's vice president of strategic initiatives. "Recognizing our track record and commitment to career-focused education, area healthcare providers encouraged PTI to pursue Nursing Board approval for a licensed practical nurse preparation program and expressed interest in providing clinical experience opportunities and hiring our nursing graduates."

PTI President Greg DeFeo describes the college's decision to expand its School of Healthcare offerings. "We researched regional demand, surveyed hospitals and senior living communities, and uncovered substantial need for LPN professionals that could not be met by current educational providers. Many have waiting lists," DeFeo explains.

Students interested in PTI's Practical Nursing program must complete a rigorous acceptance process consisting of a narrative, transcript review, background check, admission testing, and nursing panel interview. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis.