Starting A Nursing Career As An LPN

Are you interested in a nursing career? Many nurses start their careers as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), also called Licensed Vocational Nurses in some states. This entry-level nursing position provides the fastest route to a career in nursing and is a perfect way to gain some real-world experience while earning a living before deciding whether you want to continue your education to become an RN. Here's a brief overview of what you can expect after becoming an LPN.

Get Lots of Hands-On Experience

Out of all nurses, LPNs provide the greatest amount of direct patient care. They work under supervision from physicians and registered nurses, and are not expected to work independently. This means that you'll have plenty of opportunity to learn from the experts and get your questions answered.

As an LPN, you'll provide basic bedside care. Your specific duties will range from taking vital signs and watching catheters to treating bedsores and administering injections or enemas. You'll assist patients to get in and out of bed, feed them when necessary, help them to take a shower or use the toilet, participate in care planning, and notify your supervisors of any changes.

At this point in your career, you'll be considered a generalist. You'll do a little bit of everything, unlike nurses with more advanced degrees who can specialize in areas such as pediatrics, oncology, critical care, case management, or forensic nursing. Keep your eyes open and learn everything you possibly can. You will probably love some parts of your job and dislike others. Think of your likes and dislikes as useful data that will help you make important decisions about your career path in the future.

Experience a Variety of Health Care Settings

LPNs are able to find work in a variety of health care settings. You might take a job at a hospital, an outpatient facility, a long term care facility, a private clinic or even in a patient's home. At the moment, the number of LPN positions in hospitals is on the decline, but this trend is accompanied by an increase in outpatient services offered by long term care facilities.

Most LPNs work 40 hours a week. LPNs are needed for day and night shifts as well as holidays and weekends. Although you are expected to put in a lot of work, along with the challenges come rewards. You will get an idea of what health care settings you prefer to work in, and what types of patients stimulate your professional interest.

How to Become an LPN

Nursing is a highly regulated profession, due to the nature of the work. Not only must you complete a state approved practical nursing program, you must also successfully pass a licensing examination before being allowed to work as an LPN.

Fortunately, it doesn't take long to acquire the necessary qualifications. You can complete an LPN program in as little as a year. During your academic education, you'll take classes in a variety of subjects, including physiology, anatomy, nutrition, sciences, obstetrics, pediatrics and first aid. You'll also complete a number of hours of supervised clinical training. After graduating, you'll take the National Council Licensure examination for Practical Nurses, NCLEX-PN, and be able to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse after passing.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of LPNs is projected to grow 14 percent between 2006 and 2016. This growth is faster than the average for all occupations, and is due to the long-term care needs of an increasing elderly population and the general increase in demand for health care services. Becoming an LPN will put you in a good position to continue to grow your nursing career and enjoy diverse employment options within the expanding field of nursing.

Find An LPN Program Near You

Become an LPN in as little as 12 months and start enjoying excellent job opportunities, a good income, and outstanding opportunities for career advancement. Request additional information to speak with a program adviser: Find LPN Programs Near You.

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