Meeting Nursing Shortage Needs Through Educational Partnerships: LPN to RN Under One Roof

Abstract

A unique 1 + 1 licensed practical nurse (LPN) to registered nurse (RN) program is offered through a contractual partnership between Lake Area Technical Institute and the University of South Dakota. The practical nursing graduates enjoy a seamless transition from LPN to RN. A critical piece to the success of this joint venture is the mutual use of facilities and the utilization of shared faculty. Collaboration among Lake Area Technical Institute, the South Dakota Board of Education, the University of South Dakota, and the South Dakota Board of Regents has created the seamless articulation of general education and practical nursing credits. Acknowledgement of prior education is recognized through a demonstration of competencies and verification of credits. The 1 + 1 program has been a success for more than a decade as a result of two schools working together under one roof.

Keywords

articulation transition LPN to RN 1 + 1 nursing education partnership collaboration

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