Most training programs, lasting about 1 year, are offered by vocational or
technical schools or community or junior colleges. LPNs must be licensed to
practice. Successful completion of a practical nurse program and passing an
examination are required to become licensed.Education and training.
All States and the District of Columbia require LPNs to pass a licensing
examination, known as the NCLEX-PN, after completing a State-approved
practical nursing program. A high school diploma or its equivalent usually
is required for entry, although some programs accept candidates without a
diploma, and some programs are part of a high school curriculum.
In 2006, there were more than 1,500 State-approved training programs in
practical nursing. Most training programs are available from technical and
vocational schools or community and junior colleges. Other programs are
available through high schools, hospitals, and colleges and universities.
Most year-long practical nursing programs include both classroom study
and supervised clinical practice (patient care). Classroom study covers
basic nursing concepts and subjects related to patient care, including
anatomy, physiology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics,
psychiatric nursing, the administration of drugs, nutrition, and first aid.
Clinical practice usually is in a hospital but sometimes includes other
settings.
Licensure. The NCLEX-PN licensing exam is required in order
to obtain licensure as an LPN. The exam is developed and administered by the
National Council of State Boards of Nursing. The NCLEX-PN is a
computer-based exam and varies in length. The exam covers four major
categories: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and
maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
Other qualifications. LPNs should have a caring,
sympathetic nature. They should be emotionally stable because working with
the sick and injured can be stressful. They also need to be observant, and
to have good decision-making and communication skills. As part of a
health-care team, they must be able to follow orders and work under close
supervision.
Advancement. In some employment settings, such as nursing
homes, LPNs can advance to become charge nurses who oversee the work of
other LPNs and of nursing aides. Some LPNs also choose to become registered
nurses through numerous LPN-to-RN training programs.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor,
Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition
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Licensed Practical Nurse Employment
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Licensed Practical Nurse Job Outlook
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