May 6-12 is National Nurses Week

Welcome to National Nurses week! This year’s theme is “nurses make the difference.” The official “National Student Nurse Day” is May 6.

TCC’s nursing program has recently revised its admissions process to reduce barriers for students and create a more equitable and holistic admissions process. Starting with the next admissions cycle, which begins June 1, 2024:

• The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam will no longer be required for admission to the traditional RN and LPN to Rn programs.
• The CNA (NAC) certified nursing assistant credential will no longer be required for admission to the traditional RN program. LPNs will still be required to have an unencumbered LPN license for the LPN to RN program application.
• Applicants with specific healthcare experience and/or credentials (such as CNA/NAC, MA, EMT, RT) may receive additional points in the new scoring system. However, the CNA/NAC credential is no longer mandatory.
• Retakes or repeats for any pre-requisite course will no longer carry a penalty, such as deduction of points, in the new scoring system. There continues to be no time limit on the age of prerequisite courses.

Learn more about TCC’s Nursing program and its admission requirements.

Update from Associate Dean of Nursing, Dr. Jillian Edwards

Each year during National Nurses Week, May 6th to 12th, we celebrate the selfless heroes who embody courage, sacrifice, and unwavering values in their noble profession. Nursing isn't just a career; it's a calling—a calling to serve, heal, and uplift humanity in times of need. Please thank TCC’s amazing nursing faculty for their commitment and bravery to the profession, creating an inclusive nursing workforce, and most importantly, their commitment to our students.

As we honor the remarkable contributions of nurses, we must also recognize the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive nursing workforce. The nursing program and faculty are proud to be implementing a holistic and more equitable nursing admission process. We can break down barriers and open doors to aspiring nurses from all walks of life. By removing barriers and embracing diversity, we enrich the fabric of healthcare. Let us ensure that every aspiring nurse, regardless of background, can pursue their dreams. Together, let us build a future where the nursing workforce reflects the beautiful tapestry of humanity.

To succeed in this journey, potential nursing students must embrace their education as their highest priority. TCC’s rigorous nursing curriculum will demand their full attention. To walk this path means placing your education above all else, making sacrifices for the greater good. It means working diligently, yet responsibly, balancing your studies with a modest workload. Nursing students must commit to prioritizing education above all else, limiting working hours to no more than 8 to 12 hours a week while in the program and develop a reliable support system to increase their chance for success. Aspiring nurses, your path is both noble and demanding. The qualities needed to thrive in this profession empathy, integrity, and perseverance are not just words but guiding principles.

In celebrating National Nurses Week, let us not only honor the past achievements of nurses but also pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Together, let us champion the values of compassion, diversity, and excellence that define the heart and soul of nursing. Happy National Nurses Week!