A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who provides routine care for sick and injured patients. Known as licensed vocational nurses (LVN) in certain states, these individuals collaborate closely with registered nurses (RN) to help provide patient care. While they have a more limited scope of practice than RNs, these individuals are an important part of a hospital care team and essential to the patient care experience.
Licensed Practical Nurse Job Description
LPNs work closely with RNs, primarily in hospital settings, and are responsible for both administrative tasks and hands-on patient care. The day-to-day responsibilities of an LPN include the following:
- Monitor patient vitals and record them appropriately
- Helping patients with their basic hygiene, including bathing and feeding
- Assist in moving patients in and out of beds and into wheelchairs
- Updating patient files and records
- Evaluating the patient’s wellbeing and reporting needs to the necessary medical staff
- Assist the nursing staff with basic tasks such as administering medication
- Explain treatments and procedures to patients and their families
- Change bandages and dressings to ensure proper healing
A typical day for a licensed practical nurse will involve caring for several patients at once, under the direct supervision of more experienced registered nurses. LPNs can work in a variety of settings but are most commonly found in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, memory care facilities, and nursing homes.
LPNs may also work with in-home care agencies to help home-bound patients with their day-to-day needs. No matter what setting they are in, LPNs tend to have similar jobs and will need to work under a more seasoned nurse when caring for patients.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
According to Nursing Process, in 2022, the average LPN makes approximately $24.93 per hour or about $51,850 per year. However, there are many factors that can impact these numbers including experience, the setting of the job, and the state of employment.
The job outlook for this career is good and many hospitals and care facilities around the country are hiring licensed practical nurses for their staff.
For Instance:
Most medical or care facilities in the country have a need for LPNs. Here are a few of the many places that are hiring licensed practical nurses to fill out their care team.
- Middlesex Health in Connecticut often has per-diem and full-time licensed practical nurse jobs
- Regional Care Network in Nashville, TN is looking for LPNs typically with one year of experience to fill out their team.
- In Broward County, FL home are facilities like Matrix Home Care are hiring LPNs to provide in-home services to patients in need.
Training and Requirements
A licensed practical nurse needs a state license in order to work in this career. This means enrolling in a one-to-two-year LPN program. You do not need a bachelor’s degree in order to become a licensed practical nurse.
The schooling process involves classroom lectures and clinical rotations. Students must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and apply for a license within their state’s licensing board.
One of the most important things for an LPN to have is clinical experience. While most students will get a great deal of hands-on experience during school, additional training may be needed in certain jobs or for LPNs who want to specialize in certain areas like hospice care or urology. Many specialties require at least six months of experience before the nurse can apply for that specific certification.
This gives LPNs the opportunity to earn more money, gain more experience, and sets them up for success should they want to go back to school to become a registered nurse.