What does a Licensed Practical Nurse do?
Published 3 min read
A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a nurse who cares for people who are sick, injured, or disabled. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. LPNs provide basic nursing care and may also help with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing.
Licensed Practical Nurse job duties include:
- Administering injections and vaccinations
- Checking patients' vital signs
- Dressing wounds and applying bandages
- Collecting blood and urine samples
- Assisting with baths and showers
- Helping patients to eat, dress, and groom themselves
- Turning and repositioning bedridden patients
- Providing emotional support to patients and their families
- Providing basic patient care such as taking temperatures or blood pressure
Licensed Practical Nurse Job Requirements
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a nurse who has completed a one-year program at a hospital, community college, or technical school and has passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). In order to become an LPN, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also complete an accredited LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Some states require LPNs to be licensed by the state in which they practice.
Licensed Practical Nurse Skills
- Patient care
- Assessing patients
- Administering medication
- Performing physical exams
- Collecting lab samples
- Educating patients
- Documenting patient records
- Observing and reporting changes in patients
- Working as part of a healthcare team
- Communicating with patients and families
- Providing emotional support
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How to become a Licensed Practical Nurse
There are many reasons why someone might want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Maybe they have always been interested in the medical field, or maybe they have a friend or family member who is an LPN and they have seen first-hand the positive impact that this career can have. Whatever the reason, if you are thinking about becoming an LPN then there are a few things you need to know.
First and foremost, you will need to complete an accredited nursing program. This can be done at a variety of schools, both online and offline. Once you have completed your program, you will then need to take and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. This exam is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing and is required for licensure in all states.
Once you have passed the NCLEX-PN exam, you will then need to apply for licensure with your state board of nursing. Each state has different requirements for licensure, so be sure to check with your state board to find out what is required. Once you have met all the requirements, you will be issued your LPN license and can begin practicing!
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