subject: So You Want To Become A Nurse [print this page] People with caring and nurturing personalities should enter a field in which job prospects are excellent and will continue to grow. LPN schools could start you on a fulfilling career. LPN's, or Licensed practical Nurses care for patients in the hospital, long term care facilities, doctor's offices and also through home health agencies. Listed below are some tasks of LPN's:
Measure temperature, blood pressure, pulse and respirations
Administer medications, including injections
Change dressings on wounds
Feed patients who need assistance in eating
Assist with bathing and dressing
LPN nursing schools can often be completed from 1 year to 18 months. Programs are offered by, private colleges, vocational schools, or community colleges. Once you have completed your LPN classes, you must pass the NCLEX-PN examination to become a licensed LPN. In addition you coursework, your program should include a clinical practicum which will give you first hand experience with patient care. Your classes should include the following:
Anatomy and physiology
Medical-surgical nursing
Pharmacology
Nutrition
Pediatrics
Obstetrics
Psychiatric nursing
LPN's are part of the medical team and their contribution may include quick decisions that need to be made before the doctor and other personnel can be available. It requires good problem solving skills, appropriate time management, good communication skills and the ability to multi-task
The Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that LPN employment is expected to grow by 14 percent between 2006-2016. For better prospects and potentially higher pay, once you become an LPN, you can continue your education to become an RN, or Registered Nurse.
