Can you become a Licensed Practical Nurse?

The job market for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) looks promising over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is projected to grow by 3% over the next several years, with an average of 54,000 job openings annually through 2033.This growth is driven by factors such as an aging population,advancements in medical technology and growing rates of chronic conditions. The nursing field also offers significant career mobility as LPNs can pursue specializations or advance to higher-paying roles by earning additional certifications or degrees.

In the U.S., licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) earn a median annual salary of $59,730, or $28.72 per hour. Salaries vary by experience, industry, and location—the top 10% of LPNs earn $77,870 or more per year, while the lowest 10% earn $45,670 or less

The highest-paying industries for LPNs include government agencies, home health care, and nursing homes or residential care facilities. If you're considering location, some of the top-paying states for LPNs are Hawaii, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire.

What are the daily tasks of a licensed practical nurse?

The daily responsibilities of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vary depending on patient needs and work setting. On any given day, an LPN may:

1.Assist with Medical Procedures

Prepare equipment, ensure patient comfort, and support doctors or registered nurses (RNs) during procedures by following their instructions.

2.Conduct or Assist with Basic Lab Tests

Collect samples such as blood or urine and perform simple tests like blood sugar or cholesterol checks. You may also help set up lab equipment and record test results for further analysis.

3.Provide Routine Care for Patients Recovering from Illness, Injury, or Surgery

Monitor vital signs, administer medications, assist with mobility, and help patients with daily activities to support their recovery.

4.Monitor Patient Health

Regularly check vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate, and report any changes or concerns to the doctor or nurse for timely intervention.

5.Report Patient Progress

Track patient recovery and provide clear, accurate updates to doctors and RNs to assist in making informed care decisions.

6.Follow Healthcare Plans

Administer medications, assist with physical therapy, and monitor symptoms as directed by the doctor or RN, ensuring the care plan is properly followed.

7.Provide Personal Hygiene Assistance

Help patients with bathing, grooming, and other hygiene tasks to maintain their comfort, dignity, and well-being when they are unable to care for themselves.

What are the types of nursing?

Nurses work in a wide range of settings, covering various specialties—from nursing assistants to nurse practitioners, and from pediatrics to oncology. One way to classify nurses is by their education level, including diploma, degree, and advanced degree programs. Nurse practitioners fall into either the diploma or degree category, depending on the nursing program they complete.

As an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse), you can specialize in areas such as hospice care, geriatrics, or home health care. LPNs also work in diverse settings, including clinics, schools, theme parks, mental health centers, and insurance companies. In many of these roles, you may work under the direct supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or physician. If you're in a hospital or clinic, your role may be more supportive, assisting in patient care rather than providing primary care.

What are the skills needed for a career as a licensed practical nurse?

A successful career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) requires a blend of technical expertise and strong interpersonal skills. LPNs work closely with patients recovering from illness, injury, or surgery, making compassion and communication essential. Additionally, core nursing skills such as wound care and monitoring vital signs are fundamental to the role.

Key Skills for LPNs:

Empathy: Patients may be in pain or under stress. Understanding their physical and emotional needs helps provide better care.

Teamwork: LPNs collaborate with RNs, doctors, and other healthcare professionals, making the ability to work well with others crucial.

Strong Ethics: Handling confidential medical records and assisting with personal hygiene requires professionalism, discretion, and ethical integrity.

Physical Stamina: LPNs spend long hours on their feet, assist with patient mobility, and perform physically demanding tasks.

Attention to Detail: Monitoring patient progress and tracking symptoms accurately ensures proper care and timely intervention.

Medical Terminology: Understanding basic medical language is essential for communicating with doctors and nurses and following patient care plans.

Where do licensed practical nurses work?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) work in a variety of healthcare settings, ranging from hospitals to home care. Common workplaces for LPNs include nursing homes, residential care facilities, physicians' offices, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and patients' homes where they provide home health care services. A significant number of LPNs are employed in nursing facilities and residential care homes, where they play a crucial role in patient care.

What degree do you need to be a licensed practical nurse?

You don’t need a degree to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), but you can choose to earn an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) instead of an LPN diploma. Both paths have their pros and cons, as outlined below.

Diploma

Earning an LPN certification (diploma) requires completing a practical nursing program, typically offered at vocational schools. These programs take 12 to 16 months and focus on fundamental nursing skills to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN, the national licensing exam for LPNs. Some schools also offer LPN-to-RN bridge programs, allowing LPNs to transition into registered nursing roles.

Degree

Another option is pursuing an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN). This degree allows you to take both the NCLEX-PN (to become an LPN) and the NCLEX-RN (to become a Registered Nurse (RN)), making it an attractive choice for those looking to advance in nursing. While the ASN program takes about two years—longer than a diploma program—and may be more expensive, it can lead to higher earning potential and greater career opportunities in the long run.

How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse?

Traditional practical nursing programs typically take one to two years to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time, and generally require 36 to 40 credits. Some schools offer accelerated programs, allowing students to complete their training in as little as seven months.

Alternatively, you can pursue an Associate of Science in Nursing (ADN), which takes two years. However, this is not a common educational pathway for those becoming Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs).

How do I begin a career as a licensed practical nurse?

1.Meet Prerequisites and Choose a Nursing School

When selecting a nursing program, consider factors such as accreditation, program structure, and available options (e.g., online or part-time). Look for a program approved by your state’s board of nursing. Online and part-time programs may be ideal if you need flexibility, while in-person classes may help with focus and hands-on learning.

Be sure to check the prerequisites for your chosen program—many practical nursing programs require applicants to pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) before admission.

2.Choose Your Educational Path: Diploma or Degree

You can become an LPN by completing either a practical nursing diploma program or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). If you want to enter the workforce quickly, a diploma program may be the best option. However, if you’re considering advancing your career in nursing, earning a degree may make it easier to transition to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in the future.

3.Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam

After completing your nursing program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain your LPN license. To schedule your exam, apply for Authorization to Test (ATT) through your state’s board of nursing or the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).

4.Apply for LPN Jobs

Once you've met all educational and certification requirements, you’re officially an LPN and can begin applying for jobs in healthcare facilities, home care, clinics, and more. When searching, consider the type of facility, specialties you’re interested in, and any additional education or certifications employers may require.

5.Earn Professional Certifications (Optional but Beneficial)

Obtaining additional certifications can enhance your skills and job prospects. Organizations like the National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service (NAPNES) offer specialized certifications in areas such as pharmacology, IV therapy, and long-term care.  These credentials can make you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

Outlook

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a straightforward process. You’ll need to earn a high school diploma or GED, complete an accredited practical nursing program, and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain your license.

If you’re ready to start your LPN career, find a practical nursing program that aligns with your needs and long-term goals. Accelerated programs allow you to become an LPN in as little as seven months, enabling you to enter the workforce quickly after completing your training.