Can an LPN take the CHPN exam?

Specialties Hospice

Updated:   Published

I have been an LPN for 8 yrs. Never thought I would want to do hospice, never thought I could handle it, but after going through my dad's cancer and eventually hospice, I feel it is something I need and want to do. Like something in my heart is telling me that is where I need to be. I have read about the CHPN test and not sure if an LPN can take the CHPN test. I live in Indiana if that matters.

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It looks like there is a different certification for LPNs: CHPLN. According to the accreditation site, in order to sit for the CHPLN exam, you need to have an unrestricted practical/vocational license in the US/territories and also have 2 years of hospice/palliative care experience. Given your experience with your dad, I think you'd be a great addition to the hospice nursing community! Many of us got into this field because we were inspired by the hospice care that a friend or family member received. Sounds like your next step would be to look for a hospice job and then, in two years, you could pursue certification. Good luck!

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Emphatically yes. Everyone from RNs to STNAs can become certified. I highly recommend it. However, unless requirements recently changed, only one year of hospice experience was required when I first acquired mine. Your employer should pay for classes and testing up to a certain point (Hospice employer). Where I work, ALL LPNs, RNs, and STNAs MUST be certified with termination being the penalty for failure.

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Hi there!

I am a CHPLN :) (an LPN with hospice and palliative certification) Feel free to message me if you have any questions. Blessings on your journey of becoming certified. :)

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I ordered the CHPN exam book, should I have ordered the CHPLN instead?

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