Certifications

I would check with your state BON. There are certainly some states that allow ACLS, PALS and the like--however, be sure that your scope of practice in the FACILITY that you are hired at allows you to practice these skills.

Congratulations on passing NCLEX! It's an exciting time.

In the state of FL, I have ACLS as an LPN. If you work for a hospital that offers the certifications, they will most likely require that your job function permits the necessity. If you don't work with Peds, they may not allow you to get the PALS certification. If you are trying to get them on your own, as long as you meet criteria to sit for the exam, you should be able to get the certification. Just make sure it's worth your time and energy to obtain first. Some certifications require a bit of experience before you can get the certification as well, but each state is different as jadelpn mentioned.

Yes Washington state does accept ACLS, and Hospice and Palliative nursing certs. Im studying for Hospice now.

Im wondering is anyone else knows what other certs are applicable to Washington state....The BON website is cryptic...if anyone can give tips on how o navigate that would get my heartfelt thanks...

Yes, but in states such as California where LVNs (what we call LPNs) are not allowed to push IV medications, such certifications are rendered almost impractical at the bedside. Know what your state's scope of practice is and what the job market is like for LVNs/LPNs where such certifications are in demand before investing in them.

Do you have any suggestions of hospitals to apply for in the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Pete area? I currently live in Tennessee and am planning on moving there when I pass the NCLEX but am having somewhat of a difficult time finding any?

Also, What is a good school for LPN to RN bridge program that you recommend (it may have to be an online course) so a few suggestions would be GREAT. Thank you so much!!!