MOULTRIE , GA. Moultrie Technical College’s Moultrie campus practical nursing program graduates from summer quarter 2007 finished their classroom work and clinical rotations at area hospitals and physicians’ offices in September. However, walking across the stage to receive their diplomas is just the first of several steps necessary to land a dream job as a nurse. One of the toughest steps is passing a comprehensive exam.

Students are required to submit an application to the Georgia State Board of Nursing as well as the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, or NCSBN. 

Following graduation from their respective colleges, aspiring practical nurses must then pass the difficult National Council Licensure Examination [NCLEX], or “boards”, which is administered by the NCSBN. The exam covers all aspects of professional nursing practice, specifically focusing on patient education, the nursing process and patient care.

Test-takers must pass the exam before they are allowed to begin working as licensed practical nurses, or LPNs. The NCLEX has a national passing average of just over 88 percent so far in 2007.

The outlook is much brighter for Moultrie Tech’s nursing graduates, according to test results released in October.

Moultrie Tech’s summer quarter graduates achieved a 100 percent pass rate, making this MTC Moultrie campus class the sixth consecutive one to achieve a perfect rating on the exam.

MTC practical nursing instructor and program director Stephanie Ellis said, “This is a rare occurrence, and we are very proud. We know they will represent Moultrie Technical College and their instructors very well.”

Ellis continued, “The practical nursing program is very demanding. A student must be dedicated to be successful in the program. It is our goal to ensure that our students receive a high quality education.”

Moultrie Tech’s summer quarter graduates are Tina Carruthers, Lisa Diane Crosby, Lyndsay Elizabeth Glass, April Nicole Lanier, Tabetha Gayle Nester, Gina Leeann Polo, Shannika Shontrell Reddick, Beth Marie Sammons, Patricia Diana Saunders, Ashley LaRay Saunders and Lisa Kent Warren.

Anyone interested in a career in practical nursing can contact Ellis at Moultrie Tech’s Industrial Drive campus in Moultrie at 217-4177 or can log onto the college website at www.moultrietech.edu for more information.

New student registration and orientation for winter quarter is December 3 rd. Classes begin January 7th.