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Licensed Practical Nurse

 
Licensed Practical Nursing as a Field

 
Entering the healthcare sector has become much easier with the advent of more jobs and growth in the field. One such way to enter the field can be through the profession of a licensed practical nurse. If you are interested in becoming a productive part of the immense healthcare sector you can always take a leap in to the field by becoming an LPN.
 
Job Description
The job as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) requires working under registered nurses and doctors, taking care of patients and looking after the sick and disabled. They are also referred to as licensed vocational nurses. The basic job description involves providing bedside care; monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate; feeding and assisting patients with bathing and dressing; giving injections and administering enemas.
 
Educational Requirements
After completing high school, the most important requirement in becoming a license practical nurse is to enroll in an accredited program. This is usually a state approved program which usually of a duration of one year. You will find this type of program at vocational schools or community colleges or even at junior colleges. Some hospitals and high schools also offer training for LPN. This program will consist of theory in the form of classroom study and clinical practice to polish your skills. After this, you will need to take the National Licensure Examination or the computer based NCLEX-PN which is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
 
Career Prospects
Since this is a relatively new discipline and a much needed one, there is vast growth in the field and the number of jobs that will become available in the near future. In fact, some LPNs even get the opportunity to supervise nursing assistants. It is also possible to enroll into a LPN-to-RN program which will allow transition into a registered nurse. With the health care sector expected to increase in the next few years, nursing has become a good option to consider if you want to enter the field of healthcare.
 

Ask an Expert

Q:As I was reading about the practical nursing salary, I found out that there are many different nursing specialties I can choose from. Can you name a few?

A:Nursing is broad field in the healthcare industry. There are many different branches of nursing you can choose from. Some of the main specialty areas include the following: pediatric nursing, travel nursing, gerontology nursing, oncology nursing, anesthetist nursing, and more. The area you pursue as a specialization field will determine you career ahead.

Q:Apart from the practical nurse salary, what other benefits should I expect in nursing?

A:Nurses make a median annual income of $64,690 according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This income level is expected to grow in the coming years due to higher demand. Apart from the monetary benefits, one can expect other benefits such as insurance, housing, bonuses, certification reimbursements, and more. However, these may vary from place to place and will depend upon which organization you join.

Q:Is a licensed practical nurse salary good?

A:According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, licensed practitioner nurses made a median annual income of $41,540 in 2012. These nurses are in high demand and make up the largest workforce in the healthcare industry. With more experience and training, LPN's can improve their income potential and move ahead in their career field.

Q:What are licensed practical nurse jobs all about?

A:Licensed practical nurses are healthcare professionals who are responsible for providing primary care to patients. These nurses perform a wide range of job duties such as administering medication, monitoring vital signs, and assisting other physicians. If you want to know more about this field, take a look at our page.

Q:I am considering a career in licensed practical nursing. Can you tell me about the steps?

A:To become a licensed practical nurse, you must enroll in an LPN degree and acquire the necessary knowledge. LPN degree programs are offered by many accredited institutes all across the nation. You must build the necessary skills and acquire formal training after clearing the licensing examinations. Browse through our page for detail.

Q:What is the purpose of licensed practical nurse training?

A:Licensed practical nurses are required to undergo training and build necessary skills. All nurses must clear the NCLEX-LPN exam in their state to earn a license. The test is basically aimed at evaluating the nursing knowledge and skill of a student. Students must demonstrate knowledge of the field. Browse through our page for more detail.

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