Practical Nursing Next Steps

  • Class Information – The Practical Nursing program requires two days per week in a clinical setting (some evenings may be required), with an additional two days per week in class.   
  • Program Commitment: To succeed in the Practical Nursing program, you should plan on a minimum of two hours of preparation for each clinical day, and at least eight hours of preparation for each nursing (NUR) course. Generally, expect to dedicate 2 to 3 hours outside of class for studying, reading, and coursework, for each hour in class. The program requires the same level of commitment as a full-time job.   
  • Mandatory Orientation: An in-person New Nursing Student Orientation will take place during the summer, likely in July or August.   
  • CastleBranch Requirements:
    • Students must purchase the student clinical clearance data warehouse through CastleBranch and complete all requirements by the program’s July 1 deadline. Failure to meet the July 1 deadline will result in the student receiving a Professional Warning Report (PWR). Every time a submission deadline is missed, the student will receive an additional PWR. Three PWRs results in automatic dismissal from the program. (Note: Annual flu vaccine deadline is the only exception, and is required by November 1. See below.)
    • Your CastleBranch package code is site-specific and will be provided to you from the Department of Nursing shortly after program acceptance. 
    • CastleBranch will collect demographic information to perform a local and national background check.
    • CastleBranch requires a physical exam within the past year and up to date immunizations. While you wait for your code and purchase, start collecting this paperwork from your healthcare provider and/or make all necessary appointments. 
    • In addition to uploading your VTSU Health Form to the college, you must also upload it to CastleBranch.
    • You are required to obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association or the Red Cross before classes begin. Other CPR certifications will not be accepted. Your BLS card must be uploaded to CastleBranch by July 1. 
    • Your annual flu vaccination is the only exception to the July 1 deadline. The current year formulations are available in the fall; you must receive your flu and vaccination no later than November 1.
  • Computer: Nursing students must have a personal laptop with a privacy screen for use in class. Chromebooks, older MacBooks, and tablets will not work with our required testing software.
  • Uniforms: The uniform policy, detailing the specific scrubs that need to be purchased, will be posted in CastleBranch in May. 
  • Clinical Supplies: 
    • Watch that is calibrated to read seconds 
    • Stethoscope 
    • Penlight 
    • Bandage Scissors 

If you have a criminal history, you must notify admissions immediately and disclose this information. Clinical facilities have the right to review your background check and FBI fingerprint results and conduct a state abuse registry scan. VTSU and our clinical partners reserve the right to deny student entry based on these results. Additionally, former employees of clinical partners who are not eligible for rehire may be denied entry. If you are refused placement at a clinical site, you will be withdrawn from the program. 

Questions?

Please contact the nursing department at Nursing@VermontState.edu with any CastleBranch or nursing program questions.