subject: How To Become An Lvn [print this page] An LVN is a licensed vocational nurseAn LVN is a licensed vocational nurse. They are trained to give patients routine care while being licensed by the state or region care is provided. In some cases, they are referred to as an LPN or Licensed Practical Nurse. They have similar duties to an RN or registered nurse in which they can assist in hospitals, doctor offices and long-term care facilities such as a nursing home or hospice.
While an LVN has multiple responsibilities they perform a wide range of duties under supervision of a physician. In some areas, depending on regulations for the state or region, an LVN may not obtain certification to perform certain procedures such as starting an intravenous line (IV). Many, however, are able to administer injections and take blood samples. Other duties a licensed vocational nurse may be required to perform include cleaning and preparing hospital rooms, providing special assistance to patients such as helping them bathe, and perform health assessments while monitoring patient health. Some may be required to supervise CNAs (certified nursing assistants) or CMAs (certified medical assistants).
To become an LVN, one year of training is required that includes an educational background in patient care, anatomy and physiology. There are a variety of medical schools and community colleges that offer programs for LVN training. They also perform duties under supervision once their education is completed. When considering education, you'll want to review accreditation of the college or medical school being considered. The program should be approved by the state or region in order to qualify for licensing. Training includes a mix of hands-on training with patient care.
In-class training includes learning basic medical procedures such as first aid, nutrition, pediatrics and pharmacology. Additional hands-on training will be in a hospital or medical setting that allows thorough learning instruction of patient care and procedures. Upon completing training successfully, a licensure exam is taken. The exam, also known as the NCLEX or the National Council Licensure Examination, is completed electronically on the computer. Not only do you need to pass your hands-on training, you'll need to become familiar with terminology that will be covered on the exam.
The cost of training varies depending on courses are completed. There are also LVN training courses available online. Once training and licensing is completed, there are a variety of work positions available in different fields. While many practicing LVNs are content with their pay and title positions, many make about half of what an RN makes annually. Some analysts believe LVNs will be phased out since they often require supervision often. On the other hand, physicians prefer to hire them over an RN due to differences in salary.
While there is training and licensure required to become an LVN, it is likely continued education is required after passing their initial exam. Continued education requirements may vary depending on the state, but they provide educational elements that help licensed nurses maintain and develop their skills.
