What is the Program Length?

One of the most significant differences between a diploma and an associate degree program is how long it typically takes to complete the program. An associate degree program usually takes around two years to complete. For example, theÌý Diagnostic Medical Sonography Echocardiography program graduates at ¾«¶«´«Ã½ earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree upon completing the 24-month program. However, programs such as the Comprehensive Dental Assisting program at ¾«¶«´«Ã½ can be completed in as little as 10 months, with graduates earning a diploma. Other diploma programs can be completed in one year or less.

Coursework is Different

Associate degree programs typically include general studies courses such as Math and English, while diploma program coursework focuses on the specific job skills required. It’s also important to note that the type of degree or diploma offered is sometimes based on the accrediting body’s requirements.

Program Outcomes

The requirements for working in that field differ depending on what area you decide to pursue. Some careers will require a minimum of an associate degree to obtain licensure. The sonography field is a good example. Because while the requirements do vary from state to state, to obtain licensure or certification for many roles in this field, you must first complete an accredited associate degree program. It all comes down to what your unique goals happen to be for your career. No matter what career path you choose, be sure to research and know what kind of education will give you the best chance for success!

What are the Benefits of a Diploma vs an Associate Degree?

One of the key benefits of obtaining an associate degree is the ability to transfer more credits to a bachelor’s degree program should you advance your education even further. Earning an associate degree can also open the door to more opportunities, and often the compensation is higher for individuals with an associate degree vs. a diploma.

On the flip side, if you’re eager to jump into the workforce and start earning, a diploma program puts you on the path to your career in half the time.

Deciding which path to pursue depends on your personal goals. Both associate degree and diploma programs are significant steps toward a future career you can be proud of. If you’re exploring your options for furthering your education, check out the programs at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. With accelerated ten- and twelve-month diploma programs and associate degree programs, ¾«¶«´«Ã½ is sure to have one that fits your unique goals for the future. Contact us today to learn more.

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Hybrid learning has become increasingly popular over the past few decades. It has gained even more traction during the pandemic, forcing many to stay home for work and education. But there are tangible benefits to students who choose a hybrid or blended education path. Before we explore the benefits, let’s break down what it means to be a hybrid student. 

Defining Hybrid Learning

Hybrid learning is an education model that combines online and traditional classroom-based learning. Also referred to as blended learning, it’s a flexible approach allowing students to access online and in-person instructions. This means hybrid students can learn from various resources, including textbooks, videos, online lectures, and discussion boards. They also have the chance to attend face-to-face classes with their teachers and peers, where they can receive immediate feedback, ask questions, and engage in group discussions. It provides a unique learning experience combining the best of both worlds, promoting independent learning while maintaining traditional classroom-based instruction’s value.

Advantages of Hybrid Learning

Flexibility – One of the biggest advantages of being a hybrid student is flexibility. Hybrid students can schedule their study time and coursework in the best way for them. For instance, if a student has a part-time job or extracurricular activities that require them to be physically present, they can arrange their online courses accordingly. Hybrid students also have the flexibility of setting their own pace in terms of how they learn. 

While in-person classes may have a set schedule, online classes can be completed at the student’s own pace. This is great for students who need extra time to review course material or who want to accelerate their learning. 

Personalized Learning – Every student learns in their own unique way. What works for one student doesn’t always work for another. A key advantage of hybrid learning is the ability to tailor the learning experience to fit an individual student’s unique learning style. A hybrid student can choose when and where they want to learn, and they can customize their learning experience to suit their individual needs. 

Access to Resources – In traditional classroom settings, students are often limited to the resources that are available in the classroom and school library. With hybrid learning, students can access online resources and materials from their school’s learning management system or the Internet. This opens up a whole world of resources that students can utilize to enhance their learning.

For example, students can find academic journals, eBooks, online courses, educational videos, and interactive tools online, which can complement what they learn in the classroom. They can also engage with subject-matter experts from around the world through virtual chats and webinars. Access to such a vast range of educational resources through hybrid learning enables students to tailor their learning to their individual needs, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

Time Management Skills – Another benefit of hybrid learning is building time management skills. In a hybrid learning environment, students have to balance both their online and in-person coursework, which requires careful planning and scheduling. By taking on this responsibility, students are not only better equipped to manage their time effectively in their academic lives but will also have developed valuable skills for their future work lives.

Improved Technological Proficiency – One of the most significant benefits of hybrid learning is that it can enhance a student’s technological proficiency. Hybrid learning requires technology to access and interact with course materials and participate in virtual learning activities. As a result, hybrid students become adept at using various digital tools such as video conferencing, online learning platforms, and content management systems. Students who participate in hybrid learning develop technical skills that can help them academically and professionally.

As the workforce becomes more globalized and technology-dependent, students proficient in traditional classroom settings and online learning environments will have an advantage. By blending the best of both worlds, students can access a wealth of resources and expertise while gaining valuable hands-on experience. If you’d like to explore the benefits of hybrid learning, check out the programs at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. ¾«¶«´«Ã½ is helping students get education and training in various patient care professions offering hybrid learning to allow for the ideal work-school-life balance. Contact us today to learn more.

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Client Communication

The first, and possibly most important skill you’ll learn is how to effectively communicate with the diverse range of clients entrusting their animals to your care. 

Animal Handling and Restraint

As a veterinary assistant, it’s important to be able to handle and restrain animals in a safe and effective manner. That’s why one of the top skills you’ll master in ¾«¶«´«Ã½’s Veterinary Assisting program is animal handling and restraint. During your training, you’ll learn the proper techniques for handling and restraining different types of animals, from dogs and cats to rabbits and birds. This includes understanding their body language and behavior, as well as using the appropriate equipment, such as leashes, collars, muzzles, and gloves.

You’ll also learn how to safely and confidently handle animals during routine procedures, such as vaccinations, blood draws, and nail trims. This not only ensures the safety of the animal, but also helps to minimize their stress and discomfort. Additionally, you’ll be taught how to handle and restrain animals during more complex procedures, such as surgery or dental work. This involves using techniques that keep the animal still and calm while allowing the veterinarian to work effectively.

Overall, mastering the skill of animal handling and restraint is essential for anyone working in the veterinary field. With the training you’ll receive at ¾«¶«´«Ã½, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence needed to handle and care for animals in a compassionate and professional manner.

Veterinary Terminology

As a student in the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Veterinary Assisting program, you’ll learn the ins and outs of medical terminology. Understanding the complex language used in veterinary medicine is essential to your success as a veterinary assistant. 

Throughout the program, you’ll learn how to read and interpret medical records, prescription labels, and other important documents using proper medical terminology. This skill will be especially important as you communicate with other members of the veterinary team, including veterinarians and other veterinary professionals.

By mastering medical terminology, you’ll be able to better assist with patient care. You’ll be able to understand and accurately report patient symptoms and behaviors, as well as provide accurate information to pet owners. Additionally, you’ll be able to explain procedures and treatment options to clients in a way that they can understand, making you a valuable member of the veterinary team.

During your veterinary assisting program, you’ll learn medical terminology through a variety of methods, including lectures, hands-on exercises, and clinical experiences. You’ll learn the most common medical terms and abbreviations, and you’ll practice using them in real-world situations. With practice and dedication, you’ll become knowledgeable of veterinary medical terminology, and an asset to any veterinary practice.

Diagnostic Procedures

As a veterinary assistant, you will play an important role in helping veterinarians diagnose and treat animals. In the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Veterinary Assisting program, you’ll learn about a range of diagnostic procedures and gain the skills you need to help conduct them. Here are just a few of the diagnostic procedures you’ll learn about:

1. Radiography

Radiography is the process of taking X-rays to help identify problems in an animal’s bones, internal organs, or other areas of the body. As a veterinary assistant, you’ll learn how to help prepare animals for X-rays, position them correctly, and safely operate the X-ray machine.

2. Laboratory Testing

In order to diagnose many conditions, veterinarians rely on laboratory tests to analyze blood, urine, or tissue samples. In the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Veterinary Assisting program, you’ll learn how to collect and handle these samples, and how to run basic tests in the lab.

3. Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to create images of an animal’s internal organs. As a veterinary assistant, you’ll learn how to assist veterinarians during ultrasound procedures, including how to prepare the animal, position the equipment, and help interpret the results.

4. Endoscopy

Endoscopy involves using a flexible tube with a camera and light attached to it to examine an animal’s internal organs. In the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Veterinary Assisting program, you’ll learn how to assist veterinarians during endoscopy procedures, including how to prepare the animal, insert and manipulate the endoscope, and clean and care for the equipment afterward.

By learning about these diagnostic procedures and gaining hands-on experience conducting them, you’ll develop valuable skills in observation, communication, and attention to detail. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of animal health and become better equipped to support veterinarians in providing the best possible care for their patients.

Surgical Prep and Post-Op Care

In the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Veterinary Assisting program, you will receive extensive training in surgical assistance and post-operative care. As a vet assistant, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that animals undergoing surgery are comfortable, properly anesthetized, and monitored during the procedure.

During your training, you’ll learn how to prepare animals for surgery, including cleaning and disinfecting the surgical site and administering pre-operative medications. You’ll also learn how to assist the veterinarian during surgery, such as by holding tissue or passing instruments. Once the surgery is complete, your role will shift to post-operative care. This involves monitoring the animal as it wakes up from anesthesia, providing pain relief medications as needed, and checking for any signs of complications. You’ll also learn how to properly care for surgical wounds, including cleaning and bandaging.

Through your surgical assistance and post-operative care training, you’ll develop several essential skills, including attention to detail, the ability to work under pressure, and strong communication skills. You’ll need to be able to follow complex protocols and communicate effectively with both the veterinarian and the pet owners.

In addition to these general veterinary assisting skills, you’ll also develop a deep sense of empathy and compassion for the animals in your care. As a vet assistant, you’ll play a crucial role in helping these animals recover from surgery and return to their normal lives. Overall, the training you’ll receive in surgical assistance and post-operative care in the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ Veterinary Assisting program will prepare you for a career in veterinary medicine. You’ll be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact in the lives of animals and their owners every day. Contact us now for more information. 

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Daily Life as a Practical Nurse

Describing a typical day in the life of a practical nurse is difficult because every workday can be so different, depending on a variety of factors. However, there are common tasks practical nurses are likely to perform on a pretty regular basis, such as:

• Monitoring patients’ vital signs
• Administering medications
• Documenting patient care
• Communicating with patients and their families 
• Applying or changing bandages
• Drawing blood or other samples
• Starting IV drips

But it’s important to note that some routine duties will vary based on the specific healthcare setting. 

Hospitals

In a hospital setting, a practical nurse might work in a specific unit, such as intensive care, where they provide around-the-clock care to critically ill patients. In this environment, they work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists, to ensure that patients receive the best care possible.

Long-term care facilities 

Practical nurses may work with elderly patients who require assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also provide wound care, administer medications, and monitor patients for signs of infection or other health issues.

Home healthcare agencies 

Practical nurses working in home healthcare visit and care for patients in their homes. This can include providing a variety of services, including wound care, medication administration, and health education. They may also work with patients who have chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, to help manage their symptoms and improve their overall health.

Regardless of the healthcare environment, practical nurses play a critical role in providing compassionate care to patients and their families.

What Types of Patients do Practical Nurses Work With?

One of the best aspects of working as a practical nurse is working with people from all walks of life. There are so many different areas of specialty for practical nurses, and within those areas, there are even more diverse patient populations of people.

For example, in long-term care facilities, practical nurses may work with elderly patients with chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. In these vital roles, practical nurses provide invaluable medical support and emotional support to patients and their families.

If you’re a practical nurse working in a hospital, you could be working in a variety of different units, including the emergency room or intensive care unit. In both of these settings, the patients will range in age and diversity from across the spectrum. 

For practical nurses working in mental health settings, you’ll be working with patients with a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, and schizophrenia. These patients may require ongoing care and support, and practical nurses play a crucial role in their treatment and recovery.

No matter where a practical nurse works, there are sure to be patients from diverse backgrounds with unique medical needs. Practical nurse training prepares nurses to work with patients of all ages, cultures, and medical condition. 

Work in a Team Environment

Practical nurses work closely with other healthcare professionals in a team environment. They work under the direct supervision of registered nurses, and collaborate with doctors, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care for their patients. The team approach to healthcare is essential to ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care and that all aspects of their health and well-being are addressed.

In many ways, practical nurses are the ultimate team players because they not only provide integral support to the entire healthcare team, they also serve as patient advocates. They are often the first healthcare professional to notice changes in a patient’s condition and can alert other members of the healthcare team if intervention is necessary. 

Provide Emotional Support to Patients and Families

Providing emotional support to patients and their families is a crucial aspect of a practical nurse’s job. After all, it’s not uncommon for patients to feel overwhelmed and anxious when they’re in the hospital, and practical nurses LPNs can make a big difference when it comes to putting patients at ease. By actively listening and offering words of comfort, practical nurses not only provide support to the patient but also to the family members. This can include answering questions, providing updates on the patient’s condition, and offering a listening ear.

Practical nurses also learn the importance of respecting the emotional and cultural differences of patients and their families. By providing a safe and supportive environment, practical nurses help patients, and their families feel heard and understood.

It’s safe to say that practical nurses really are theÌýpracticalÌýpart of patient care. And no matter where your job happens to be, daily life as a practical nurse is not likely to be mundane. A career in practical nursing is an attractive option. If you’d like to learn more about practical nursing careers, check out theÌýPractical Nursing at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. With a 10-month accelerated program and hands-on experience in a real clinical setting, Caris is helping students launch careers in practical nursing. Contact us today for more information.Ìý

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The Role of a Veterinary Assistant

First and foremost, let’s establish that veterinary assistants play a critical role in any veterinary practice and provide hands-on assistance to veterinarians including taking vital signs, drawing blood samples, cleaning kennels, and preparing medications. Veterinary assistants are also responsible for caring for animals during their time in the office, providing food and water as needed, and ensuring the safety and comfort of all patients. In addition, veterinary assistants often provide emotional support to clients and help them understand the treatment their pet is receiving. It’s easy to see why empathy, compassion, and excellent communication skills are essential traits for a veterinary assistant. But veterinary assistants must also be able to master the clinical aspects of the job.

What Will I Learn in a Veterinary Program?

Most veterinary assistant programs combine classroom and clinical instruction in a variety of areas. You can typically expect program curriculum to cover:

• Surgical preparation to assist technicians and doctors with preparing animals for elective and emergency surgeries.
• Pharmacology, including basic dosage calculations and drug uses, reactions, and routes.
• Preparation of various laboratory procedures and testing protocols such as microscopic fecal exam and skin scraping, DTM, urine specific gravity and sediment exam, and staining techniques.
• Proper animal restraint techniques for treatment, procedures and exams such as blood draws, rectal exams, ear cleaning, etc.
• Effective client communication and education, vaccine protocols, and preventions.
• Administrative responsibilities such as filing patient records, faxing, and communication with other veterinary offices.
• You’ll learn important safety protocols such as how to handle hazardous materials properly, ways to prevent the spread of disease, and how to react in emergencies.

The Benefits of Becoming a Veterinary Assistant

If job security is important to you, becoming a veterinary assistant might be a great option. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for veterinary assistants is growing at a much faster than average rate and is expected to add a whopping   Let’s face it, people love their pets! 

Certifications and Education Requirements for Veterinary Assistants

Veterinary assistants are valuable members of any animal care team. They often play a dual role in an animal practice as they provide both patient care and administrative support. The educational requirements vary depending on the employer and the state you’re in, but typically require completion of an accredited veterinary assistant program. Most programs require at least a high school diploma or equivalent and many employers prefer to hire veterinary assistants with an AVA (Approved Veterinary Assistant) certification. Program lengths can vary but usually range between 10 – 24 months in general. 

In addition to the educational requirements, some employers will require that you have experience with animals and demonstrate good communication skills. That can include anything from volunteer work in an animal shelter to working in a veterinary clinic. You should also be prepared to demonstrate proficiency in medical terminology and technical skills related to animal care. 

What to Look for in a Veterinary Assisting Training Program

Once you’ve made the decision that veterinary assisting is the right path for your future, now it’s time to find the right training program. You’ll want to ask several questions:

1. Does the program offer comprehensive coverage of all aspects of veterinary assisting? This should include training in animal handling, diagnostics, medical terminology, and basic nursing skills. The program should also cover ethical guidelines, laws and regulations, and safety protocols associated with working in a veterinary setting.
2. Will there be an opportunity to practice hands-on clinical skills in a laboratory setting through internships or externships at local veterinary clinics or animal shelters? Gaining real-world experience working with animals will help you hit the ground running once you complete the program.  
3. Ask questions about the program’s faculty, student resources, and alumni network. Doing your research will ensure that you’re getting the best education possible and that you have access to the necessary support during and after your program.
4. How long is the program? If you’re looking for a fast-track career in veterinary assisting, you’ll want to look for a program that gets you there quickly and still delivers a quality education. 

Deciding to pursue a future that is all about helping animals takes a special person. After all, pets have the ability to change our lives. What better way to earn a living than working to improve the lives of pets everywhere? If you’d like to learn more about a career as a veterinary assistant, check out the veterinary assistant program at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. With a 10-month accelerated program and 150-hour externship, Caris can help you get the hands-on training and skills you need to become a veterinary assistant. Contact us now for more information. 

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What are practical nurses and what do they do? 

Practical nurses, also known as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), are health care professionals who provide basic nursing care to patients. They work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors and play a critical role on a healthcare team because they often provide a wide range of patient care functions. Working as a practical nurse, you can expect to perform the following duties:

• Monitoring and recording patients’ vital signs 

• Assisting patients with daily living activities, such as bathing and dressing 

• Administering medications and injections 

• Helping with mobility issues 

• Changing wound dressings 

• Providing physical therapy, including exercises 

• Offering emotional support to patients 

• Consulting with doctors and other healthcare staff members about patient care 

• Educating patients and families about treatments, medications, and preventive care measures 

• Creating and maintaining medical records 

• Collecting laboratory samples for testing 

• Preparing equipment for treatment procedures

What are the educational requirements to become a practical nurse?

To become a practical nurse, you must complete a formal education program from an accredited school. In most states, practical nurses must be licensed. To qualify for licensure, students must complete an approved practical nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) exam.  In addition to completing an education program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam, some states also require practical nurses to complete continuing education courses on an ongoing basis in order to maintain their licensure, and most employers prefer to hire individuals who have obtained a practical nursing license. 

You can also choose to specialize in a particular field of practical nursing such as pediatric, geriatric, maternal, or surgical nursing. These specializations may require additional training, which can also lead to additional opportunities. 

Job market and future opportunities for practical nurses

Now that we’ve covered what practical nurses do and some of the qualifications you’ll need, let’s discuss some other key elements that may affect your decision to pursue a career as a practical nurse. For example, are you looking for a career that has long-term stability? As the demand for healthcare increases, so does the demand for practical nurses. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry is growing rapidly and projected to add  by 2031.

Do I have the right traits for a career in practical nursing?

Practical nurses must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, be detail-oriented, organized, and have the ability to problem solve and make decisions quickly. But they also must be empathetic, compassionate and able to work under stressful, high-pressure conditions. If you’re the ultimate cool under pressure type, you could be a great fit for a career in practical nursing. So, now that you know you’ve got what it takes, what should you be looking for in a practical nursing program? 

What should you look for when choosing a practical nursing program?

When it comes to selecting a practical nursing program, there are a few important things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure the program is accredited by the appropriate institution to ensure your degree will be recognized throughout the healthcare industry. You should also ensure that the school provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers all of the necessary subjects, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical ethics. Additionally, look for a program that offers hands-on clinical experience. This will provide you with the real-world training that will prepare you to become a competent practical nurse.  

Finally, consider the cost of the program and research any financial aid or scholarship opportunities that might be available to you.  By taking the time to research your options, you can find the right practical nursing program for you and make your journey to your future a whole lot easier. 

Becoming a practical nurse requires dedication and commitment to the profession, but with the right program and training, it can be a great career. If you’re ready to become the practical part of a healthcare team, check out the practical nursing program at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. With an accelerated 12-month program in a fully functioning clinical lab, and real-world experience through a 506-hour externship in an actual clinical setting, Caris can help you get the hands-on training you need to launch a career as a licensed practical nurse. Contact us today to learn more and we’ll reach out to you. 

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Step 1 – Identify the healthcare career path that’s right for you

When considering a fast-track healthcare career, it’s important to identify the healthcare career path that is best suited for your individual goals and interests. There are many different types of jobs in healthcare available, from nursing to sonography, or even working in the dental or veterinary fields. Every role in healthcare requires different levels of education and experience. Take some time to research what feels like the right fit for your future. Consider what types of skills and knowledge you have, what sort of environment you want to work in, and how much you’re willing to invest in your education or training. Doing this research can help you narrow down your options and choose the right career path for you.

Step 2 – Find a program that fits your goals

Now that you’ve chosen the field you want to work in, it’s time to find the right program to get started on your training. Some things to consider when selecting a program include:

• Program length – Does the career path you’ve selected require a degree? If so, what type? Most degree programs take at least 2 years and can be as long as 4 or more years to complete. If the fast-track is what you’re looking for, consider a diploma or certification program. For example, if you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant or a clinical technician, there are plenty of accredited programs available that can be completed in under two years. Some programs also offer certification upon completion, which can help you stand out from the competition.

• Accreditation – Make sure that any school you’re considering is accredited by an approved accrediting body. This will ensure that your degree is recognized by employers and that the classes you take will transfer.

• Budget – When selecting a program, factor in how you will pay for your education. Do your research and find out if you qualify for grants or loans for your education. Most schools have a dedicated financial aid department to assist you with financing your future career training. Make sure the program will help you reach your goals in a timely manner and at a price you can afford.

• Hands-on learning and real-world experience – If you’re serious about getting a fast-track healthcare career, you’ll need to gain hands-on experience in the field. One way to do this is to look for schools that offer externships and hands-on training programs. During an externship, you’ll get hands-on experience working in a real-world setting with healthcare professionals, observing relevant procedures, and gaining knowledge in the field.

Step 3 – Network

You should also consider joining professional organizations or volunteer groups related to your field of interest. This will not only provide you with valuable experience but also give you access to industry contacts who can help you further your career once you complete your training.

Taking the time to properly research and understand the path you want to take, finding a program that fits your goals and gaining experience in the field are all important steps toward achieving your goal of launching a healthcare career as quickly as possible. If you’d like to learn more about careers in healthcare, check out the programs at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. With accelerated programs, small class sizes, and hands-on training from experienced instructors, Caris is helping students achieve their goal of working in the field of patient care. Contact us today,  schedule a campus tour or complete the online form and one of our dedicated representatives will contact you to get you started on your path to a career in the healthcare industry.

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Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

APRNs work in a variety of healthcare settings and have completed not only a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), but have also earned a master’s degree in one of the three areas of advanced practice including Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse-Midwife, or Clinical Nurse Practitioner. ARPNs coordinate patient care and may even provide primary and specialty healthcare services depending on their area of practice.

Registered Nurse (RN)

While the minimum education requirement for an RN is an Associate Degree in nursing (ADN), many healthcare organizations prefer to hire RNs with a BSN. RNs work under the supervision of physicians and their typical duties include assessing patient health issues, creating and implementing nursing care plans, administering nursing care to sick, injured, or disabled patients, maintaining medical records, educating and advising patients on health and disease prevention. RNs also supervise medical assistants and other nursing staff and may continue their education to work in an even more specialized nursing role such as a surgical, psychiatric, or emergency room (ER) nurse.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Also referred to as a licensed vocational nurse, (LVN), practical nurses are an essential part of a medical team. Working under the supervision of an RN or APRN, practical nurses administer medication, change bandages, monitor vital signs, collect blood and urine samples, communicate with patients, and more. Practical nurse education requirements typically require the completion of an approved certificate or diploma program from an approved school. Many nursing professionals start their careers as practical nurses and continue on to expand their education later in their careers.

Medical Assistant

While medical assistants are not nurses, strictly speaking, they play an important role in the healthcare industry because they provide integral support with everyday operations of clinics, hospitals, urgent care facilities, and more. Their typical duties include not just patient care and support but can also include a variety of administrative tasks. While the education requirements for medical assistants may vary from state to state, most training programs offer a diploma or certificate upon completion.

There’s no question that nurses of all kinds are truly the backbone of the healthcare industry. As the industry continues to grow, the need for skilled nursing professionals will grow right along with it. If you’d like to learn more about a career in patient care, check out the practical nurse training or the medical assisting programs at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. Caris is helping students build the foundation they need to join the next generation of healthcare heroes. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a campus tour.

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Once you’ve decided on what career path is right for you, you’ll have a few more things to consider. Starting with, where to get the training you’ll need, and what to look for in a healthcare education program. In such a rapidly growing industry, it’s not surprising that there are a lot of schools to choose from. To get the most out of your healthcare education, having access to an on-campus clinical lab for your training can be the key to a more comprehensive learning experience, and ultimately, more opportunities. Why? Because there are multiple tangible benefits to getting your training at a school with an on-campus clinical lab.

• Direct exposure working on real lab equipment – whether you’re training in the field of sonography, medical assisting, practical nursing, dental or veterinary assisting, being able to work with the actual tools of the trade will be invaluable.
• Hands-on clinical training – there is nothing better to prepare you for your future in patient care than hands-on instruction in a clinical setting by experienced instructors who have worked in the healthcare industry.
• Interactive learning – learning in an interactive environment is a great way to retain information and better understanding of the common practices of the profession you’ll be training in.
• Real world setting – most on-campus clinical labs are designed to mirror a real professional patient care setting. Real world instruction that prepares you for the realities of your future career.
• Builds confidence – hands-on learning on professional lab equipment in an interactive environment can be a huge confidence booster, preparing you for what you will experience in your career of choice.

Making the decision to pursue a future in the healthcare profession is a great first step towards the future you’ve always dreamed about. If you’re ready to take the next step, check out the programs at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. With multiple programs to choose from and a fully functioning on-campus clinical labs, Caris is training the next generation of healthcare heroes. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a tour to get a first-hand look at the benefits of ¾«¶«´«Ã½ and our on-campus clinical lab.

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What is cardiac sonography

Cardiac sonographers, also known as echocardiographers, are the heroes of the heart who help doctors diagnose and treat a variety of heart disease, defects, and other medical conditions. Using ultrasound technology, cardiac sonographers take digital images of the heart, including the chambers, walls, valves, and blood vessels. Doctors use these images to identify a wide range of abnormalities and to assist in the development of treatment plans for patients to help improve their health and save lives.

Typical duties of a cardiac sonographer

Working with a new generation of ultrasound equipment to capture those valuable diagnostic images of the heart is the primary task of a cardiac sonographer. There are other responsibilities to the job description as well. Some additional duties you can expect as a cardiac sonographer include:

• Monitor and maintain ultrasound equipment and supplies
• Communicate with patients before, during, and after exams including the ability to safely move and lift patients
• Use of interpersonal skills to collaborate with colleagues and physicians
• Prepare preliminary reports for reading physicians
• Explain procedures in detail and answer questions
• Think clearly and act calmly in stressful situations

What kind of training does a cardiac sonographer need?

Employers require credentialing through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) or Cardiac Credentialing International (CCI) to be eligible for employment. An Associate degree of applied science is required in order to sit for these credentialing exams. Upon graduation, you will be eligible to take the Registered Cardiac Sonography (RCS) exam through CCI to further enhance your career candidacy. Overall, if you’re considering a career in cardiac sonography, you should look for a program that provides hands-on training from instructors with real-world experience. In addition to the technical training required, most cardiac sonography programs include instruction in basic patient care, medical and legal ethics, interpersonal communication, and more.

Finding a well-rounded program that covers all of the above will help you hit the ground running once you complete your training and are ready to start your career as a cardiac sonographer.

Job outlook for cardiac sonographers

The future looks bright for cardiac sonographers. In fact, the predicts the industry will continue to grow at a faster than average rate adding nearly 15,000 jobs by 2031. Combine future job growth with an average annual pay of over $75K you can see this is a career path worth considering.

Where to look for work

So many medical facilities depend on the skills of cardiac sonographers to diagnose and treat their patients. You can find employment in hospitals, emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, healthcare clinics, doctor’s offices, research facilities, or even on the go with traveling contracts and mobile units.

If you are interested in pursuing a future in cardiac sonography to help save lives as a vital member of the patient care team, you should check out the Cardiac Sonography program at ¾«¶«´«Ã½. With an accelerated 24-month program that includes a 1,320-hour externship in an actual medical facility, Caris is training the next generation of heart health heroes. Contact us today for more information or schedule a campus tour.

Become a cardiac sonographer

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