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LPN Schools: FAQs and Answers
LPN Schools: FAQs and Answers
If you are researching careers in health care, and would like to know more about becoming a licensed practical nurse, or LPN, you've come to the right place. Here you can find out the differences between registered nurses, LPNs and licensed vocational nurses. You'll also find information about salary, job responsibilities, and employment prospects. Continue reading for the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about nursing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does LPN stand for?
LPN is an acronym for licensed practical nurse.
What does an LPN do?
LPNs usually work under the supervision of doctors or registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other health care settings. They can administer medications, perform wound care, measure vital signs, maintain medical records, collect samples for lab testing, and much more.
Where can I find LPN schools near me?
Consult this guide to LPN schools, organized by location, to learn more. Here, you can find information about individual schools, learn about the available programs, and request additional information.
What skills will I learn during LPN training?
From administering first aid to preparing patients for surgery, you can learn to take on a wide range of tasks. Your education can also include both classroom work and clinical experience. Other areas of the curriculum can include basic bedside nursing, medication administration, patient education, data collection, and sample collection. You can also gain a solid understanding of biology, anatomy, medical terminology, child development, pharmacology, geriatrics, and much more. Read the article "Licensed Practical Nurse Programs" for further information.
What is a typical LPN salary?
According to data from May 2010, the mean hourly wage was $19.88, or about $41,360 per year.* However, salaries can range from around $14.27 to $26.93 per hour, and are influenced by factors like geographical location and level of experience.
Do LPN programs have prerequisites?
A high school diploma, or its equivalent, is often the only prerequisite for a practical nursing program. High school students interested in a nursing career may want to concentrate their studies in math and sciences.
Are RN, LPN and LVN the same thing?
An RN is a registered nurse. Generally, RN programs require more time and cover more topics in greater detail. RNs are allowed to work more independently with patients. Licensed practical nurses (LPNs)—or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), as they are called in California and Texas—perform similar roles as RNs, but usually work under the supervision of a doctor or RN. Read the article "Exploring Nursing Career Choices" for more information.
Will I need to become certified after completing LPN school?
Yes. In addition to gaining a post-secondary education, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX-PN, given by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. However, licensure requirements vary by state, so you should consult individual nursing boards for further details.
What are the job prospects for practical nursing?
Job prospects appear to be very good. An aging population is affecting nursing in two ways. First, more nurses are retiring, creating a greater demand for qualified replacements. Second, an older population, in general, requires more health care. The greatest need for nurses is said to be in nursing care facilities and home health care providers.
How long will LPN training take?
You can expect to spend one to two years of full-time study in order to complete an LPN diploma or associate's degree.
Give your career a helping hand
If you want a career future that allows you to provide vital assistance to those in need, a nursing career is a great place to begin. You can learn to turn your compassionate nature into a rewarding and fulfilling career. For more information about the available schools that can help you reach your career goals, consult this guide to LPN schools.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, web site accessed June 27, 2011.
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