LPN Pre-Requisites

Licensed Practical Nurse  Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are a vital part of the health care system and participate in a variety of different work settings. They perform duties that may include giving injections, taking vital signs, performing basic diagnostic tests, observing patients, dressing wounds, and administering medication. They also assist patients in daily living activities such as eating, dressing, exercising, and bathing. LPNs usually work under the supervision of registered nurses, physicians, and/or dentists. Additional training is available to allow LPNs to care for patients in specialized areas such as pediatrics, surgery/recovery, obstetrics, and psychiatry. Licensed practical nurses are often responsible for observing patients, recording their reactions to medications and treatments, and reporting the results to the registered nurse or physician in charge. Individuals interested in becoming a licensed practical nurse should be intelligent, tactful, caring, and possess sound judgment. These skills, along with good health and physical stamina, are very important in this line of work. LPNs should also have a sincere interest in people and be able to maintain good interpersonal relationships with them.

Work Environment

Licensed Practical Nurses work in various health care facilities that include hospitals, nursing homes, dental offices, mental health institutions, private homes, community health clinics, and public health departments.

Employment opportunities for licensed practical nurses are expected to be excellent in the years to come. There is an expected growth of 10%-20% through the year 2010 for this area of nursing. Nursing schools are graduating far more LPNs than they have in the past in order to keep up with the demand in the job market. As with most other professions, the need to replace current employees will continue to be the main source of job openings. The growing elderly population, which requires more care from trained personnel, and the general growth of health care will also cause this job market to expand. Another area of exceptional growth for LPNs will be in nursing homes. Long-term care of elderly patients will be an increasing concern to the nation's health care system.