What does an LVN do?
Published 4 min read
An LVN is a licensed practical nurse who provides basic nursing care.
LVN job duties include:
- Administering medications and treatments as prescribed by a physician or licensed health care provider
- Checking patients’ vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, and respiration rate
- Recording patients’ medical histories and symptoms
- Consulting with physicians and other health care professionals to develop patient care plans
- Helping patients with personal care needs, such as bathing, dressing, and using the restroom
- Providing emotional support to patients and their families
- Educating patients about their health conditions and how to manage them
- Coordinating with other members of the patient’s health care team to ensure that all of the patient’s needs are being met
- Monitoring patients for changes in their condition and promptly reporting any changes to a physician or other health care professional
- Keep accurate and complete records of patients’ health care plans and treatments
LVN Job Requirements
An LVN is a licensed vocational nurse. The job requirements for an LVN include completing an accredited nursing program, passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN), and obtaining a state license. Some states may require additional exams or training. Most LVNs work in hospitals, but they may also work in clinics, long-term care facilities, or home health agencies.
LVN Skills
- Assessing patients
- Recording patient medical histories
- Administering medications
- Monitoring patients
- Identifying changes in patients' conditions
- Communicating with patients and families
- Collaborating with other members of the healthcare team
- Providing patient education
- Maintaining patient confidentiality
- Documenting patient care
Related: Top LVN Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become an LVN
An LVN, or Licensed Vocational Nurse, is a nurse who has completed a short, two-year nursing program and has passed the NCLEX-PN exam. LVNs typically work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN). In some states, LVNs may also work in private homes or long-term care facilities.
To become an LVN, you must first complete an accredited nursing program. Nursing programs are offered at many community colleges and technical schools. During your nursing program, you will take classes such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and nursing theory. You will also complete clinical rotations in various medical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Upon completing your nursing program, you will then need to pass the NCLEX-PN exam to earn your LVN license.
Once you have earned your LVN license, you can begin working in a variety of medical settings. Many LVNs choose to work in hospitals where they can care for patients with a wide range of medical conditions. Others may choose to work in clinics or doctor’s offices where they can provide primary care to patients. Still others may choose to work in long-term care facilities or private homes where they can provide care to those who need it most. No matter where you choose to work as an LVN, you will be playing an important role in the lives of your patients.
Related: LVN Resume Example