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LPN Degree - Become a Licensed Practical Nurse
Thinking about an LPN Degree?
• Do you like working with other nurses?
• Are you looking for a degree that you can acquire in 1 year?
• Do you want to experience different areas of nursing before making a selection?
What does an LPN Degree prepare me for? A licensed practical nurse (LPN), also called licensed vocational nurse (LVN), helps assist in the care of patients, often providing basic bedside care. Given the current nursing shortage, replacement needs and low nursing school enrollment, LPNs are critical in insuring high quality health care. According to the US Department of Labor Statistics, employment of those holding an LPN nursing degree is expected to grow faster than average between 2006 and 2016. LPNs work under the supervision of a doctor or registered nurse. As an LPN you would be required to provide a number of services: • Giving Injections Some states also allow LPNs to administer medication as well as set up IVs and provide care to ventilator-dependent patients. Given the wide array of task, LPNs can care for patients from infants and newborns to elderly. Most LPNs work in all areas of health care but they can also specialize in pediatrics, surgery, obstetrics or psychiatry. Where Do You Work with an LPN Degree? As an LPN you can work in various health care facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, mental health institutions, private homes, community health clinics, rehabilitation centers and public health departments. In nursing care facilities LPNs help to evaluate resident’s needs, develop care plans and supervise care provided by nursing aids. In doctor’s offices and clinics, they are responsible for making appointments, keeping medical records and other clerical duties. Most LPNs in hospitals and nursing care facilities work a 40-hour week, but because patient’s needs are round-the-clock, expect to work some nights, weekends and holidays. Additionally, be prepared to stand for long periods of time and help patients move into bed, stand and walk. What Do You Need to Do to Earn an LPN Degree? To earn an LPN nursing degree you will need to graduate from an accredited LPN program and pass the state administered National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). To qualify to take this exam you must first complete a LPN/LVN education program that is approved by your state’s Board of Nursing. Most training programs, both in online and traditional schools/colleges, last about 1 year. Programs include both classroom study and supervised clinical practice in patient care. LPN nursing programs include classes in biology, chemistry, anatomy, first aid, child development, psychology, emergency medical technology, as well as supervised clinical practice in patient care. Have an LPN Nursing Degree? Ready to Advance Further? Licensed practical nurses often advance their career by returning to school to obtain a Registered Nursing Degree (RN). This can be achieved by entering LPN-to-RN Programs
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