subject: Licensed Practical Nurse [print this page] LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) are an important part of the health care team and they participate in a variety of different work settings. They perform duties that may include taking temperatures, blood pressures, pulses and respirations; administering medications and injections, performing basic diagnostic tests, observing patients, changing dressings on wounds. LPNs also assist patients in activities of daily living, such as eating, dressing, exercising, and bathing.
LPNs usually work under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. Additional training is available to allow LPNs in specialized areas such as pediatrics, surgery/recovery room, obstetrics and psychiatry.
Licensed Practical Nurses are often responsible for observing patients, recording their reactions to medications and treatments, and reporting the results to the registered nurse or physician in charge. Individuals who are interested in becoming an LPN, should be intelligent, tactful, caring possess good communication skills and be able to use sound judgment. These skills along with good health and physical stamina are also very important in this line of work. LPNs should also have a sincere interest in people and be able to maintain good interpersonal relationships with them.
Licensed Practical Nurses work in various care facilities that include hospitals, nursing homes, mental health institutions, private homes, community health clinics and public health departments.
Individuals who are interested in a career as a licensed practical nurse should take high school courses in biology, LPN, chemistry, algebra, psychology, first aid, physical education, nutrition, child growth and development health occupations/medical professions, computer skills, English and history.
Students entering a practical nursing program must have a high school diploma or a GED. An applicant must complete an accredited program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for licensed practical nurses. Programs include classroom as well as supervised clinical practice in patient care. Individuals interested in becoming a licensed practical nurse should contact schools for information on admission and course of study.
Employment opportunities for licensed practical nurses are expected to be excellent in the years to come. There is an expected growth of 10-20% through the year 2010 for this area of nursing. Nursing schools are graduating far more LPNs than they have in the past in order to keep up with the demand in the job market. As with most other professions, the need to replace current employees will continue to be the main source of job openings. The growing elderly population, which requires more care from trained personnel, and the general growth market of health care will also cause this job market for LPNs
to expand. Another area of exceptional growth for LPNs will be in nursing homes. Long term care of elderly patients will be an increasing concern to the nations health care system.
Licensed practical nurses often transition into registered nursing. You can go back to the private college or community college for another 1-2 years and earn an associates degree, which will qualify you to become a Registered Nurse after taking the NCLEX exam in your state. Some colleges have special programs which will allow you to get credit for some of your prior courses and then to on to earn a BSN degree and RN.
