Nurses graduate from technical center program

Saturday, Aug. 23, the Nevada Regional Technical Center held graduation ceremonies for the 39th class of the School of Practical Nursing at the First Assembly of God Church.

Rick Pierson, director of Vocational Education, addressed the 18 graduates. He explained that 33 students had enrolled and only 18 made it through the challenge. "These students represent the best of the best," Pierson said.

To reach graduation, students have taken a pre-entrance test with questions on algebra and science. They had to pass an interview and present references to be accepted into the class.

During their 12 months of nine-hour-a-day, four-days-a-week classes covering topics including anatomy, physiology, life sciences, mental health, nutrition, pharmacology and vocational options.

The next step, still ahead of the graduates, will be to pass state board testing including NCLEX (National Council of Licensure Examinations) to become fully licensed LPNs.

Career options include working in hospitals, long term care facilities, schools, home health agencies, industry, doctors' offices, agency nursing and positions as traveling nurses.

Marie Wesley, LPN, and community activist acknowledged the importance of a career in nursing, and reminded them that "hard work and dedication are the core of our (nurses') lives." She encouraged the graduates to enter careers with the patient's needs always first in their thoughts. "Make their day better with a touch and smile. No one wants to be sick or in a hospital. Help your coworkers, appreciate your employers. With head and heart and hands -- use your skills to make the world a better place." It was announced that veteran class instructor and program coordinator Becky Householder would be retiring.

She was presented with a gift from the class and school.

The class Valedictorian was Yvonne Null. The Salutatorian Donya Bridgewater.

At the graduation, several students received "Passports" which are portfolios compiled by the instructors including letters of recommendation, resumes, competancies mastered, and copies of their diploma and awards.

These students had a 95 percent class attendance, maintained an A/B average, and mastered 85 percent of all competencies.

Those who earned these passports were: Linda Berry, Donya Bridgewater, Judith Hogan, Lauretta Obert, Marsha Swadley, Betty Miller, Laura Smith, Allene Trotter and Yvonne Null.

The class of 2003: Linda Berry, Tiffany Bland, Donya Bridgewater, Amanda Dampier, Mary Eason, Gary Gooch, Tammy Hillier, Judith Hogan, Betty Miller, Yvonne Null, Lauretta Obert, Kevin Osborn, Laura Smith, Marsha Swadley, Allene Trotter, Haley Williams, Julia Witt, Susan Wood.

Graduates recited The Practical Nursing Pledge.

"Before God and those assembled here I solemnly pledge: To adhere to the code of ethics of the nursing profession. To cooperate loyally with the other members of the nursing team and to carry out faithfully and to the best of my ability the instructions of the physician or the nurse who may be assigned to supervise my work. I will not do anything evil or malicious and I will not knowingly give any harmful drug or assist in malpractice. And I pledge myself to do all in my power to raise the standards and the prestige of Practical Nursing. May my life be devoted to service, and to the high ideals of the nursing profession."