Licensed Practical Nursing Career & Job Description

So you're entertaining the idea of becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) but what exactly is an LPN/LVN? First understand that an LPN or LVN is exactly the same thing but depending on your area is what the actual title of your job may be. In this article we will be using the term LPN, but rest assure this also means LVN.

A LPN will be the one who provides the most amount of time dealing with direct patient care with in the nursing area of healthcare because an LPN is mainly responsible for dealing with the direct care of a patient. If you are looking to deal directly with patients then an LPN career may be just the job for you.

Depending on your place of employment an LPN is usually responsible for monitoring the patient, taking vitals, administering medicines, applying bandages, dressings, and work duties that may include feeding patients, collecting samples and many various other assorted jobs.

An LPN works in various settings including hospitals, clinics, doctor's offices, home care and long term facilities. As an LPN gains experience and a longer work history the job functions on an LPN may increase to supervising nursing aids and assistants.

Because nursing jobs are in high demand the need for nurses will always be there and this offers you job security. Unfortunately though the use of LPN's in a hospital setting is on the decline and LPN in a hospital setting can usually be found doing the work of a nursing assistant or nurses aid for a slightly higher pay rate. The two job settings that have the highest demand for an LPN are long term care facilities and home health care businesses.

To become an LPN you will need to find a state approved training center, complete your training and then take the state boards test (NCLEX) and pass before you can become a Licensed Practical Nurse. One of the most asked questions about becoming an LPN is what is the expected salary? You can expect to earn between 22,000 to 45,000 depending on your area and the place of employment. While a home health care LPN will make more then a doctor's office nurse the duties and responsibilities will greatly differ.