Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Career Guide

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), sometimes called a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), is a crucial part of the healthcare team. They are able to perform a vast array of tasks under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. Indeed, LPNs are such a vital component of the healthcare process that most hospitals and facilities would could to a crashing halt without their crucial services.

 

LPNs are most commonly employed in extended-care nursing facilities, but are found in hospitals, physician’s offices, community health centers and traveling to patient’s homes to provide care. Patient care is commonly needed at all hours. As such, Licensed Practical Nurses find scheduled that vary to include nights, holidays and weekends. Seniority often enables one to select their desired shifts.

Education

To be accepted into a Licensed Practical Nurse training program one is required to possess a high school diploma or its equivalent. Found in vocational schools, teaching hospitals and community colleges, LPN training programs usually span a 12-month period. Such programs award certificates or diplomas instead of degrees.

When choosing a program, it is wise to choose one that is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). Such accreditation ensures that the curriculum adequately prepares students, that it’s faculty is qualified, and that the majority of its students are able to pass the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-PN) exam upon completion. Additionally, accreditation signifies that credits attained during the program are likely to be accepted toward another degree program.

LPN training programs consist of classroom instruction, both in person or online and clinical instruction. This hands-on instruction, in the form of clinical rotations, include different specialities such as biology and pharmacology and are an invaluable part of the education process.

Licensing/Certification

Each state requires LPNs to be licensed. The state may perform a background check and request proof of education. Every state offers the NCLEX-PN exam, which is necessary to pass in order to be licensed. Licenses require period renewal, which generally requires proof of active nursing.

Advancement Opportunities

Working as a Licensed Practical Nurse opens doors to advancement. Some LPNs choose to complete more education and become a Registered Nurse. Others may choose to pursue a career in administration. There are many programs available to those currently working as LPNs to transfer their training and experience into more lucrative careers.

Salary

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report the annual median salary for Licensed Practical Nurses as $60,380 in 2020. As with most professions, salaries vary depending on geographic location and experience. Highly populated urban centers offer the highest salaries, with the many healthcare facilities located in such areas.

Job Growth

As the elderly population increases and the baby boomer generation begins needing more health services, demand for LPNs continues to grow. Many nations are experiencing chronic nursing shortages and welcome skilled medical professionals. Licensed Practical Nurses can continue to expect high demand for their skills. The BLS predicts that job opportunities for LPNs will increase by 22 percent in the years between 2020 and 2030.

If you enjoy knowing that you are contributing to quality of care each day, you may find a career as an LPN very rewarding. A very respectable salary and high demand serve to sweeten the pot. That you can begin this career in a year or less serves to make it even more appealing.

 

The Difference Between a CNA and an LPN