subject: Training For An LPN [print this page] Training For An LPN Training For An LPN
What training is needed to become an LPN? A high school diploma or GED is necessary to begin an LPN training program. Training programs for LPN's last from 1 year to 14 months, and teach students anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, practical nursing skills, medical-surgical nursing, nutrition, obstetrics, pediatrics and psychiatric nursing. After completing an LPN training program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam.
Training programs for LPN's require a high school diploma or GED for admission. LPN training programs can be found at many community colleges, and vocational schools.
Licensed practical nursing training programs take about one year to 14 months to complete and follow a curriculum approved by the state's board of nursing. Students will receive hands on training and work with real patients to develop the caring attitude that helps a nurse provide effective care. Students in LPN training are taught job duties such as:
Administering medications
Measuring vital signs
Collecting diagnostic samples
After successfully completing an LPN training program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN exam, designed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. Passing this exam is required to gain LPN certification. The exam tests an aspiring nurse's ability in these areas:
Providing a care environment that is safe and effective
Promoting and maintain patient health
Ensuring patients' physiological and psychosocial integrity
LPN's like all nurses, work with patients who may be anxious, so an effective nurse should have an empathetic and caring attitude. An LPN also needs to have an even temperament
so that he or she can stay calm in stressful situations. In addition, LPN's must develop critical thinking skills, and be observant and have strong communication skills.
As of 2008, licensed practical nurses held 749,000 jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this number will grow to 854,000 by 2016, indicating a 14% in employment over an 8 year span. While opportunities will remain strong in hospitals, LPN's can expect to find the greatest number of new nursing jobs in home health care services and long term care facilities. In addition, advanced medical technology has made it possible to go to their doctor's facility for procedures that were typically performed only in hospitals in the past.
Licensed practical nurses play a vital role in caring for patients who undergo such procedures and may offer assistance at the health care office.
The higher demand for this occupation results primarily from the aging baby boomer population and a general increase in demand for health care services.If later on in one's LPN career, one may decide to become a registered nurse, (RN), through an LPN Classes to RN program, one's experience as a nurse can help the nurse you test out of some classes, saving the student time and money.
Professional advantages, personal rewards, and endless chances to help othersthe LPN field delivers it all. With an exploding job market and career opportunities opening up in a range of industries, the nursing arena is calling out to candidates who are ready to put their hearts and minds to work for those of us in need of care.
