The Basics Of Becoming A Licensed Practical Nurse (lpn)

These days, becoming part of the nursing field is piquing the interest in many individuals, as the health care industry has proven to be fairly recession proof. Job security comes with working in a hospital or other medical setting, because there will always be a need for specialized medical care. One of the methods of becoming part of the health care industry is looking into becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

While you may have heard that becoming an LPN is a fast path to a nursing career, there are a few things to consider before pursuing this career.

The Duties of a Licensed Practical Nurse

An LPN cares for patients who are sick, injured, disabled or convalescent and who are currently receiving care under a doctor, nurse practitioner or registered nurse. Some LPNs offer general care to patients, such as maintaining medical charts, checking blood pressure, temperature and other variables in the body, assisting with the patient’s movement and helping with personal hygiene. Other responsibilities include giving injections, dressing wounds, massaging patients or monitoring catheters.

An LPN can also collect samples for testing, perform routine tests, clean and maintain medical devices or care for infants. LPNs are knowledgeable in the medical field and can often offer information to a patient’s family and friends on how to encourage healthy habits after an illness or injury.

A licensed practical nurse’s work environment can vary. These professionals might work in nursing homes or doctors’ offices, or offer in-home care. Typically, these nurses will work a conventional 40-hour week, but there are also some LPNs who work nights, weekends and holidays outside of the typical workweek.

The LPN Process

Prospective LPNs must complete a state-approved training program in practical nursing in order to be considered for licensure. After hours of classroom study and supervised practice, they need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX-PN, to become an LPN.

Some industry professionals believe that the LPN field is destined to grow much faster than the average nursing vocation. Demand for LPNs will continue to grow as the general population ages. The median salary for an LPN varies from $33,000 to $46,000 annually.

A career as a licensed practical nurse can be extremely fulfilling because of the responsibilities and care these professionals provide to patients. Much compassion is needed on a daily basis, so it’s important to carefully consider whether a career as an LPN is right for you.