Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
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:
Get matched to a Nursing degree program
Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009 Edition; Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor