Licensed Practical Nurse

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are licensed healthcare professionals who provide basic patient care under the supervision of physicians, registered nurses (RNs), and other healthcare providers. LPNs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and private homes.

What LPNs Do

LPNs perform a variety of tasks, including:

• Taking vital signs
• Monitoring patients
• Administering medications
• Dressing wounds
• Inserting catheters
• Drawing blood
• Providing injections
• Teaching patients about their care

LPNs typically work 8-hour shifts, and they may work days, evenings, or weekends.

How to Become an LPN

To become an LPN, you must complete an accredited LPN program. LPN programs are typically offered at community colleges and technical schools. The programs typically take 1-2 years to complete and include both classroom and clinical experience.

Once you have completed an LPN program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed. The NCLEX-PN is a standardized test that assesses your knowledge of nursing.

LPN Career Outlook

The job outlook for LPNs is expected to be good over the next few years. This is due to the aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services.

LPN Salary

The median annual salary for LPNs is $48,820. The salary range for LPNs is typically between $35,000 and $65,000.

LPN Work Environment

LPNs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and private homes. They may work with patients of all ages and with a variety of medical conditions.

LPN Challenges

Some of the challenges that LPNs face include:

• Working with patients who are critically ill or injured
• Dealing with difficult families
• Working long hours
• Working with a variety of healthcare professionals

LPN Projects

Some of the projects that LPNs may take on include:

• Developing and implementing patient care plans
• Educating patients and families about their health conditions
• Participating in research projects
• Mentoring new LPNs

LPN Personal Growth

LPNs can experience a great deal of personal growth in their careers. They can develop their skills in patient care, communication, and teamwork. They can also learn about new medical treatments and technologies.

LPN Personality Traits

LPNs typically have the following personality traits:

• Compassionate
• Caring
• Patient
• Organized
• Detail-oriented
• Good communication skills
• Teamwork skills

LPN Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for a career as an LPN. These projects include:

• Volunteering at a local hospital or clinic
• Shadowing an LPN
• Taking online courses in nursing
• Reading books and articles about nursing

Online Courses for LPNs

Online courses can be a great way to prepare for a career as an LPN. Online courses can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the field. Online courses can also help you to save time and money.

There are many different online courses available that can help you to prepare for a career as an LPN. Some of the topics that these courses cover include:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Nursing fundamentals
• Medical terminology
• Pharmacology
• Patient care

Online courses can be a great way to prepare for a career as an LPN. However, it is important to note that online courses alone are not enough to meet the requirements to become an LPN. You will also need to complete an accredited LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN.