Nurses play a vital role in improving health outcomes. They support their patients not only by addressing physical needs, but also by providing emotional care, explaining treatment options, and facilitating access to necessary services.
In Ohio, both licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) are in demand across the state, creating opportunities for those entering the nursing profession. Individuals who are considering enrolling in a practical nursing program or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program can benefit from learning about how to get an Ohio nursing license and the employment outlook for nurses in the region.
Types of Nursing Licenses in Ohio
Nurses in Ohio are required to obtain a license through the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN). They may seek different types of nursing licenses depending on their level of education and professional role.
LPN License
Obtaining an LPN license in Ohio is evidence that an individual has met the requirements to work as an LPN in the state and can perform duties such as the following:
Monitor vital signs
Provide basic healthcare service (for example, inserting catheters or changing bandages)
Assist patients with eating, dressing, or bathing
Keep medical records up to date
Communicate with other healthcare professionals regarding patients’ health
Discuss care updates with patients and their families
RN License
Getting an RN license in Ohio demonstrates that a person has the education and experience necessary to perform the duties of an RN, such as the following:
Conduct physical exams
Administer medication and healthcare treatments
Help conduct diagnostic tests
Coordinate patients’ care with other healthcare professionals
Educate patients about their health
Other Types of Ohio Nursing Licenses
With additional education, individuals can pursue more advanced Ohio nursing licenses, including licenses to work as a certified nurse midwife (CNM), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), certified nurse practitioner (CNP), and certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA).
What Are the Requirements to Get a Nursing License in Ohio?
To earn an LPN or RN licensure in Ohio, individuals must meet education and training requirements and pass a certification exam.
Ohio Requirements for LPN Licensure
Aspiring LPNs in Ohio need to complete a practical nursing program that either OBN or the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has approved.
Completing this type of program can help students gain the expertise they need to perform the duties of an LPN. For example, the Practical Nursing program at Fortis College in Cuyahoga Falls includes courses in subjects such as the following:
Fundamentals of nursing
Pharmacology
Nutrition
Intravenous therapy
Care of older adults
The Fortis Practical Nursing program also enables students to gain valuable experience through laboratory work, clinical simulations, and supervised training at healthcare facilities.
While they are developing their clinical expertise, students in practical nursing programs can strengthen their communication skills, improve their ability to work as part of a team, and build their capacity to form relationships with patients.
After completing this program, individuals must apply to OBN to determine their eligibility to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). After they pass the exam, OBN will issue them an Ohio LPN license.
Ohio Requirements for RN Licensure
Aspiring RNs in Ohio must complete an RN educational program approved by either OBN or NCSBN. These are typically ADN or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.
The coursework in these programs is designed to prepare students to perform the important responsibilities of an RN. For example, the ADN program at Fortis in Cuyahoga Falls includes instruction in the following subjects:
Anatomy and physiology
Biology
Health assessment
Medical-surgical nursing
Community nursing
The ADN program encompasses classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experience at healthcare facilities. These forms of instruction enable aspiring RNs to cultivate skills in areas such as critical thinking, client-centered care, and continuity of care.
After completing an RN education program, the next step is to apply to OBN to determine eligibility to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). After an individual receives approval and passes the exam, OBN will issue them an Ohio RN license.
As registered nurses gain experience, they can receive additional training to become eligible to pursue RN nursing certifications in a variety of areas, such as emergency nursing, pediatric nursing, or oncology nursing.
Ohio Requirements for Multistate LPN and RN Licensure
It can be beneficial for LPNs and RNs to know how to get a compact nursing license in Ohio, also referred to as a multistate license.
Ohio participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows licensed LPNs and RNs to hold a license in their primary state of residence but practice in other states that participate in the NLC. To obtain a multistate license, licensed LPNs or RNs need to submit an application to OBN.
Job Growth for Nurses in Ohio
The employment outlook for licensed nurses in Ohio is positive. According to Projections Central, a workforce projection website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Ohio is expected to average 2,930 job openings for LPNs and 7,630 openings for RNs each year from 2022 through 2032. In addition to steady demand, nursing offers scheduling flexibility. Nurses may work full time or part time, in day, evening, or overnight shifts. This range of options can support a more manageable work-life balance.
Getting an Ohio Nursing License Can Be a Solid Career Move
LPNs and RNs in Ohio have the opportunity to do meaningful work in a field with steady demand. These professionals apply their expertise in ways that support patient care and contribute to improved health outcomes.
Ohioans who are interested in attending nursing school can explore the Practical Nursing program and ADN program offered at Fortis College in Cuyahoga Falls, near Akron. These programs are designed to provide the knowledge and skills students need to pursue rewarding careers as LPNs or RNs. Start your journey in nursing education today.
Recommended Readings
How to Become a Registered Nurse
How Long Does It Take to Become an LPN?
LPN vs. RN: What’s the Difference?