subject: Lpn Training Creates Opportunities For A Variety Of Nursing Jobs [print this page] LPN training expands opportunities for students looking for a stable profession to enter. Nursing is a promising field with a high level of projected future job growth. The occupational opportunities for nurses are expected to expand by about twenty-one percent over the next decade. Licensed nurses can find employment in a broad variety of settings. Some places they may find employment include mental health clinics, assisted living facilities, private homes, and hospitals. Nursing jobs offer gainful employment in a helping profession, with decent wages and benefits.
Compensation for nurses is modest and hours can be quite variable. Typical salaries range in between thirty and forty thousand annually, but experienced LPNs or those who work plenty of overtime can earn even more. Entry level pay for beginning in the profession is typically in the range of twelve or thirteen dollars an hour, though it may run higher in areas on the East and West coasts where cost of living and wages tend to be a little higher.
Licensed Nurses take care of the ill, the injured, the infirm, the elderly, and the disabled. They also conduct routine tasks like measuring pulse, blood pressure and body temperature. They also collect urine samples, feed patients, and monitor fluid intake. In some cases, LPNs supervise others including nurse's aides and assistants. Schedules can be demanding as most facilities that hire nurses require around the clock staffing. LPNs may be expected to work long hours including overnight shifts and weekends.
Students following this career path should ensure that they have the temperament and aptitude required to perform the job properly. Good people skills are essential as nurses must interact with medical staff as well as the public. Being able to effectively communicate with doctors and patients is critical. Nurses also need to be able to handle pressure situations as their occupations are anything but routine. Also, people who are squeamish around blood should consider another line of work.
Training can be done through a variety of programs. Many programs are offered through hospitals or community colleges. Some online programs also offer LPN degrees although it is important to check on the accreditation of online programs.
Many nursing programs can be completed in twelve months for full time students. Part time students can enter programs that meet on weekends or during evening hours. These programs can take between one and two years to complete. Students entering should have a high school diploma or GED.
Coursework varies from school to school, but most nursing programs have a range of core courses that might include nutrition, anatomy, first aid treatment and pharmacology. Most also have a practicum or internship so that students can learn through applied experience.
LPN training helps students get an edge in the current competitive employment marketplace. Moreover, it gives students the skills to embark upon a rewarding career that helps others. Most programs can be completed in a short amount of time and entry level requirements are minimal, so it is a career that most dedicated persons who are interested can try.
