Licensed Practical Nurses and Licensed Vocational Nurses are the same type of nurse. The area of the USA that you live in will determine which term is used. An LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) is a generalist nurse who can work anywhere, for example hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and in homes as a private nurse. If you’re interested in licensed practical nurse jobs, use these tips to learn about LPN training and educational requirements—including how to obtain the basic education you'll need through an accredited online nursing school. Here’s how to become a licensed practical nurse.
What is the difference between an RN and an LPN?
In the hospital setting, an LPN is often under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN). LPNs will have a set number of patients they take care of, or they can get on-the-job training to become a surgical technician in the OR. In terms of education, an RN goes through a minimum of two years schooling to get an associate’s degree. LPNs only need to complete one year of vocational education to be able to qualify for a nursing job, and pass the nursing licensure exam called the NCLEX. LPN schooling is grueling as a lot of information is packed into 12 short months, with a lot of time focused on clinical experience. LPNs will take smaller, more compact classes than what RNs will take. In short, the delineation between these careers is based solely on the years of education required.
What is the nature of the work of an LPN?
Under instructions from a doctor or nurse, an LPN works directly with patients (men, women, children and babies) and provides around-the-clock bedside patient care that includes:
- Administering injections, oral medications, and enemas and testing blood sugar levels.
- Monitoring and taking vital signs: height, weight, blood pressure, etc.
- Wound care, which includes: changing and replacing dressings and catheters.
- Making sure the patient takes the proper medication at specific time intervals.
- Helping patients with their personal hygiene such as taking baths or if the patient is bedridden, administering towel baths and massages.
- Feeding patients who are too weak to perform this action.
- Assisting in birthing and caring for newborns.
- In some cases, being responsible for a team of nursing aides and nursing assistants.
- Completing insurance forms and other related medical forms detailing a patient’s medical history, current condition and pre and post medical care requirements.
- Charting all of the proper notes, including but not limited to medication needs, lab results, or individual needs of a patient.
- Educating family members about proper patient care when a patient is about to be discharged.
Where is an LPN often required to work?
LPNs often work in extended living facilities, rehabilitation centers, doctor’s offices, and home healthcare settings. Most major cities and hospitals do not hire LPNs for hospital unit work.
What kind of educational background is required for an LPN?
To gain LPN employment, these education requirements must be met.
- Complete high school or its equivalent GED (General Education Diploma).
- Apply for an accredited LPN program at a community college or vocational school.
- Prepare for coursework that includes biology, science, chemistry, basic anatomy, food and nutrition, health and other related areas of study.
- Pass the National Council Licensure Examination or the NCLEX-PN given by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
How much does an LPN earn?
The basic salary range for a new LPN is $25,000 to almost $40,000 annually. A slightly more experienced LPN receives an average salary of $42,000 annually. While most hospitals do not hire LPNs for floor and unit work, they are an essential part of the healthcare field. Home healthcare, nursing homes, and a lot of doctor’s offices require LPNs as an essential part of their staff. As the nursing shortage continues to grow, hospitals will probably have to start hiring LPNs once again, due to the lack of nurses. Nursing is a very demanding but rewarding career, and once you are an LPN you always have the option for advancement. For example, should you choose to become an RN later, you already have exposure to the nursing field and you’ll only need to complete the additional educational requirements.