Rochester General Hospital Nursing Program Review

The Rochester General Hospital (RGH) School of Nursing has been in existence since 1880. It was the 12th nursing school to open in the U.S. and the third in New York State. Instruction focuses on bandaging, massage, and hygiene, and there was no anatomy or physiology required. Student nurses slept in unoccupied rooms in the hospital since there were no dorms available. The Rochester General Hospital School of Nursing graduated its last class in 1964. Today, the Isabella Graham Hart School of Practical Nursing is still training nurse professionals to be Licensed Practical Nurses.

Nursing Program

Isabella Graham Hart School of Practical Nursing

Students who want to begin a career in nursing often choose practical nursing as their starting point. They can attend this school and begin their nursing career in only 10 months of full-time study or two years of part-time study. When the program is completed, graduates qualify to take the NCLEX-PN to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). LPNs work under Registered Nurses (RNs) caring for patient needs and performing important functions in the healthcare team.

Admission requirements include having a high school diploma or equivalent, a satisfactory interview and references, and being 17 years of age or older. Applicants must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills entrance exam and attain a score of 70 or higher. All applicants must also write an essay on why they want to become a practical nurse. The candidate’s application and application fee, which is nonrefundable, must be sent as far in advance as possible. In addition, the candidate’s high school or college transcripts must be forwarded to the Isabella Graham Hart School of Practical Nursing. Candidates must also forward two references from employers or work associates.

Once a student is accepted into the practical nursing program, they must complete the curriculum that includes Anatomy and Physiology, Practical Nursing I, Human Growth and Health Promotion, and a Laboratory in the first semester. Practical Nursing I includes 180 hours of theory and 60 hours of clinical practice. During the second semester, students must complete Practical Nursing II. This consists of 219 hours of theory and 120 hours of clinical practice plus 120 laboratory clinical hours. Semester III includes Practical Nursing III with 28 hours of theory and 135 hours of clinical practice. There is also a laboratory component of 120 hours. Students must have a final grade of 80 percent or higher in all nursing courses. They must have minimum grades of at least 75 percent or above in Human Growth and Health Promotion and Anatomy and Physiology.

In addition, students receive grades on their clinical performance. Evaluations are also completed at regular intervals during the program. There are formal evaluations and informal conferences throughout the year. Most of the students’ clinical experience occurs at Rochester General Hospital where students rotate to various medical, surgical, and mental health units. They are scheduled to work in the operating room, post anesthesia care, pediatrics, ambulatory care centers, and maternity. Students also gain clinical experience in Rochester Psychiatric Center, Monroe County Community Hospital, Hill Haven Nursing Home, and others. Students are also required to complete an independent study unit at a community health agency.

Contact:
Rochester General Hospital
1425 Portland Avenue,
Rochester, New York 14621
(877) 922-LINK