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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

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How to become a LPN or LVN

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), works under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians to care for patients. Most LPNs/LVNs work in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and doctors' offices.

What are the LPN/LVN's responsibilities?

LPN/LVNs are directly involved in patient care and treatment. Some job responsibilities are:

  • Providing bedside care
  • Taking vital signs
  • Dispensing most medications
  • Giving injections
  • Applying dressings
  • Collecting samples for lab tests
  • Monitoring patients
  • Reporting patient status

LPN/LVN Education Programs

There are two types of nursing education programs that lead to a LPN or LVN license:

  • Diploma program
  • Associate degree in Nursing (ADN)

Accredited career training programs for LPN/LVNs are usually about one to two years long, and must be approved by your state.

NCLEX-PN: Nursing License Required

To become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), you must complete your practical nursing program and then pass a licensing exam called the NCLEX-PN.

Nursing Degree Scholarships

A number of federal, private, and nonprofit organizations offer nursing and healthcare scholarships. Read more about nursing scholarships here:


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Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009 Edition; Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor