How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse

So you want to become a licensed practical nurse? Here’s what you need to know.

A licensed practical nurse, also known as an LPN, is a nurse who provides basic patient care. They work under the supervision of a registered nurse or a doctor.

LPNs typically have an associate’s degree in nursing, although some may have a diploma or certificate. The job duties of an LPN include taking vital signs, dressing wounds, and giving injections.

LPNs usually work in hospitals, but they may also work in nursing homes, clinics, or doctor’s offices. The average salary for an LPN is $45,000 per year.

There are many advancement opportunities for LPNs. Some may choose to become registered nurses, while others may become nurse practitioners or nurse educators.

So if you’re interested in becoming an LPN, be sure to research the education and training requirements in your state. And once you’re licensed, you’ll be on your way to a rewarding career in nursing!

What is a Licensed Practical Nurse?

A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a type of nurse who provides care for patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. LPNs typically have less training than registered nurses (RNs), but they are still required to complete a state-approved education program and pass a licensing exam.

LPNs are responsible for providing basic patient care, such as bathing, dressing, and eating; taking vital signs; and monitoring patients’ progress. They may also administer medication, perform basic lab tests, and provide other types of nursing care. In some states, LPNs may also be able to start intravenous (IV) lines.

Becoming an LPN requires completing an accredited education program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). Some states also have additional requirements, such as passing a criminal background check. Once licensed, LPNs must renew their licenses every few years and complete continuing education courses to stay up-to-date on the latest nursing practices.

Education and training

Education and training is the key to becoming a licensed practical nurse. There are many different educational paths that can lead to this career, but most involve completing an accredited practical nursing program.

Practical nursing programs typically take one to two years to complete and offer both classroom and clinical instruction. During their studies, students will learn about topics such as human anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and pharmacology. They will also gain hands-on experience caring for patients in a variety of settings.

Once they have completed their education and training, licensed practical nurses must then pass a national licensing exam in order to practice. After passing the exam, they will be able to find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies.

Job Duties

As a licensed practical nurse, the individual will be responsible for providing care to patients in a variety of settings. This may include hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and even private homes. The duties of the licensed practical nurse will vary depending on the specific setting in which they are working. However, some common duties of the licensed practical nurse include taking patient vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with wound care.

In addition to providing direct patient care, the licensed practical nurse may also be responsible for performing some administrative duties. This may include keeping patient medical records up to date and documenting patients’ progress. The licensed practical nurse may also be responsible for educating patients and their families about various health conditions.

The licensed practical nurse is an important member of the healthcare team and plays a vital role in providing quality care to patients.

Work settings

There are a number of different settings in which licensed practical nurses may work. The most common setting is a hospital, where they may work in the medical-surgical unit, labor and delivery, or the emergency department. Other potential settings include long-term care facilities, clinics, and home health agencies.

The duties of an LPN vary depending on the specific setting. In a hospital setting, for example, an LPN may take patient vital signs, administer medications, and assist with wound care. In a long-term care facility, the LPN may be responsible for more direct patient care, such as providing baths and changing dressings.

The working hours of an LPN also vary depending on the setting. In a hospital, for example, an LPN may work nights, weekends, or holidays. In a long-term care facility or clinic, the hours may be more regular.

Although the job of an LPN can be demanding, it can also be very rewarding. It is a great way to enter the healthcare field and make a difference in the lives of patients.

Salary

The average salary for a licensed practical nurse is $45,000 per year. Salary can vary depending on experience, education, and geographic location. The top 10% of earners make an average of $60,000 per year, while the bottom 10% earn an average of $35,000 per year.
Experience and education are two of the main factors that affect earnings for licensed practical nurses. Nurses with more experience tend to earn higher salaries than those with less experience. Licensed practical nurses who have completed a bachelor’s degree in nursing may also earn higher salaries than those who have only completed an accredited practical nursing program.
Geographic location is another factor that can affect earnings for licensed practical nurses. Nurses who work in urban areas typically earn more than those who work in rural areas. This is because there is usually a greater demand for nurses in urban areas.
The hours that licensed practical nurses work also affect their earnings. Nurses who work full-time hours typically earn more than those who work part-time hours. Those who work overtime or on call may also earn more than those who do not.
The type of facility where a licensed practical nurse works can also affect their earnings. Nurses who work in hospitals typically earn more than those who work in clinics or long-term care facilities. This is because hospitals usually have a greater need for nurses and are able to offer higher salaries.

Advancement opportunities

There are many advancement opportunities available for licensed practical nurses. One option is to pursue further education and training in order to become a registered nurse. With additional education and training, licensed practical nurses may also advance to positions such as nurse manager or nursing supervisor.

Those who wish to remain in direct patient care may choose to specialize in a certain area, such as pediatrics or geriatrics. Those who enjoy working with patients but also want to take on more of a leadership role may choose to become a nurse educators. There are many different paths that licensed practical nurses can take in order to advance their careers.

The sky is the limit when it comes to career advancement for licensed practical nurses. With so many options available, it is important to explore all of the possibilities and find the path that is right for you.

About the Author

Priscilla Is a nurse practitioner that has been working in healthcare for over 10 years. She started working as a patient care tech, a Certified nursing assistant, A Licensed practical nurse, a registered nurse, and a board-certified Family Nurse practitioner. She has worked in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and homes as well as working in the neonatal intensive care unit, pediatrics, maternal, and adult care, Military nursing, immediate care, and family practice.