-
by
Nurse Nhi (Columnist)
If you're a student looking for a healthcare field that uses interpersonal skills, critical thinking, and troubleshooting skills, working as a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) might be a suitable career option.
Both nursing designations are practically the same, with the title varying depending on your state. The term LVN is used in California and Texas, whereas elsewhere in the U.S., the term LPN is used.
An LPN is a type of nursing professional who provides basic medical and nursing care under the direction of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors.
They conduct a range of patient care tasks, including monitoring patient health, administering basic patient care, reporting status and changes to RNs and doctors, and maintaining patient health records.
LPN Healthcare Setting
LPNs can work in a variety of healthcare settings including:
- Hospitals
- Nursing and Residential Care Homes
- Health clinics and physician's offices
- Homecare
- Prisons and Detention Centres
- Schools
Oftentimes, LPNs don't work in emergency or critical care settings due to the level of highly acute patients and changing status or unpredictability. In these settings, it is more likely to find RNs and advanced practice nurses operating specialized life supports and running specialized medications.
An LPN's work schedule depends on their work setting. Since healthcare is delivered 24/7 in most settings, they may be working 12-hour shifts rotating between days and nights. Alternatively, in more clinic or office-type settings, they may work 8 hours rotating between weekend or on-call shifts.
LPN/LVN Responsibilities
- Collect information from patients about their medical, surgical, and family history and risk factors
- Conduct head-to-toe assessments (vital signs monitoring, cognitive orientation, pain, skin integrity, fluid input and output, etc.)
- Documentation of assessment and care intervention
- Communicate concerns with the interdisciplinary team
- Administer patient medications and monitor effects
- Daily hygiene care for patients (bathing, toileting, and dressing)
- Assist with other healthcare interventions such as wound care and bandage dressing changes, catheter and IV-line care, feeding, etc.
Depending on experience, state and institutional policies, and competence level, LPNs could take on more responsibilities with adequate training and support from RNs, nurse practitioners (NPs), and physicians.
There are various steps to becoming an LPN/LVN before you can find a job and start working.
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
If you're a high school or college student, consider taking the prerequisite courses, such as some basic science and math credits. To know which courses are prerequisites, review each program of interest and their specific requirements. Admission to the program might also ask for a particular grade point average and either a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED).
Step 2: Apply and Enroll in an LPN/LVN Program
To become an LPN, you must complete a diploma in practical nursing through an approved educational program. These programs typically only take one year to complete and help prospective nurses learn basic nursing skills through coursework and clinical experiences.
Step 3: Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam
After completing your LPN program, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). The National Council of State Boards of Nursing administers the NCLEX-PN exam, covering key entry-level nursing practice components. This exam will assist students in becoming licensed and qualified for LPN/LVN positions. The exam consists of about 85 to 205 multiple-choice questions, and test-takers have up to five hours to complete the exam.
Step 4: Start Working as an LPN/LVN
Once you pass the NCLEX-PN, you may apply for state licensure and work as an LPN. Requirements can vary by state, so it's recommended to check with your state board of nursing for exact licensure requirements. You may need to complete a background check and submit proof of NCLEX-PN results and your education.
If you wish to practice in a different state, you must transfer your license. If an LVN wishes to work in a state where the term LPN is used, they must apply for Licensure by Endorsement.
Best LPN Programs 2024
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), LPNs/ LVNs earned a median annual wage of $54,620 in May 2022. Most are employed in the nursing facilities and home care industries. The top-paying industry is personal care services, which paid these professionals a median annual wage of $90,950.
The National employment estimate for LPNs/LVNs across the United States is 632,020 positions in 2022. Of all states, California has the highest level of employment for LPNs/LVNs paying a competitive annual mean wage of $69,930. However, the highest paying state is Washington at a close $69,950.
LPNs/LVNs may also receive benefits such as health insurance, bonuses, incentive payments, retirement plans, and paid time off. Some employers may offer differential pay for night shifts, weekends, or holidays. Private practices or academic institutions may offer different salary structures than hospitals or medical centers.
It is worth mentioning that salary ranges can change over time due to factors such as inflation, demand for these roles, and changes in healthcare policies. Therefore, researching the specific salary ranges and job opportunities in your desired location and consulting reliable sources such as recent job market reports and professional organizations for the most up-to-date information is recommended.
LPN Job Projection
The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and vocational nurses is expected to grow faster than the national average, mirroring trends in the broader nursing industry. Projections indicate a 5% job growth for LPNs from 2022 to 2032, translating to approximately 54,400 new job openings annually.
Several factors contribute to this growth. The aging baby boom population is a significant factor, leading to a large portion of the healthcare workforce retiring and creating a greater need for healthcare services overall. Additionally, the prevalence and rise of chronic conditions such as COPD, diabetes, and hypertension contribute to the increasing need for care in residential facilities, a key role for LPNs.
LPN Program Accreditation
Not all programs for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) are nationally accredited; many only receive approval from their respective State Board of Nursing. These state-approved programs can adequately train LPNs for local work, but might fall short in preparing them for licensure across different states.
It is essential for aspiring nurses to consider enrolling in LPN programs that are accredited by nationally recognized bodies like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA), ensuring their education is both high-quality and allows for unforeseen life changes or moves.
Consider the following key benefits of an accredited LPN program:
- Adherence to high educational standards.
- Better preparation for the NCLEX-PN exam.
- Meeting licensure requirements in certain states.
- Increased career opportunities with employer preference.
- Facilitated credit transfer for further education.
- Elevated professional credibility.
- Eligibility for federal financial aid.
LPN vs. RN: Understanding the Differences
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) are both vital members of the healthcare team, but they have distinct roles, education requirements, and scopes of practice. Before choosing a nursing program, it's crucial to grasp these differences to align your career goals with the right pathway. Here's a breakdown of the key distinctions:
Education and Training:
- LPN: LPNs complete a one-year practical nursing program focused on basic nursing skills, patient care, and clinical experience.
- RN: RNs undergo more extensive education, either through a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN), with a broader range of subjects and deeper nursing theory understanding.
Scope of Practice:
- LPN: LPNs provide basic nursing care under supervision, including administering medications, monitoring patients, and assisting with daily activities.
- RN: RNs have a wider scope, able to assess patients, develop care plans, administer high-risk medications, perform complex procedures, and collaborate with healthcare professionals.
Patient Care Settings:
- LPN: Commonly found in nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics, focusing on direct patient care.
- RN: Work in diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, schools, and community health, with roles in various specialties such as critical care and pediatrics.
Autonomy and Decision-Making:
- LPN: Work under supervision, performing tasks independently but often requiring collaboration with higher-level healthcare professionals.
- RN: Have a higher level of autonomy, responsible for critical decisions in patient care, and can assess, plan, and implement nursing interventions independently.
Career Advancement:
- LPN: Can pursue additional certifications and specializations but may have limited career progression compared to RNs.
- RN: Have more opportunities for advancement, including pursuing advanced degrees (MSN or DNP) or specializing in areas like nursing administration or advanced clinical practice.
Understanding these differences is crucial for those considering a nursing career. Both LPNs and RNs contribute unique skills to the healthcare system, ensuring comprehensive patient care.
Are LPN Programs Worth It?
Embarking on a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse offers a range of benefits for the aspiring healthcare professional.
LPN Program Pros
LPN programs stand out for their cost-effectiveness and relatively short duration, providing a quicker transition into the nursing workforce. They also afford a degree of educational flexibility, allowing one to work and gain valuable hands-on experience while pursuing further education. Moreover, LPN graduates often find support from employers who may offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for those looking to advance to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), enriching their qualifications and enhancing their professional development.
LPN Program Cons
On the other hand, pursuing an LPN qualification comes with limitations. The earning potential for LPNs typically falls below that of Registered Nurses with ADN or BSN degrees, and there are inherent restrictions on career advancement opportunities. The scope of practice for LPNs is more limited, which can restrict the variety of care they are able to provide. Additionally, while the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) recognizes the critical role of LPNs in healthcare, they advocate for a BSN as the minimum standard for professional nursing practice. This stance is supported by research indicating that nurses with BSN degrees contribute to lower patient mortality rates, fewer errors, and improved outcomes, leading to a competitive disadvantage for LPNs in certain job markets and professional settings.
Choosing the Best LPN Program
To help you choose the best LPN program for you, explore the following articles:
- The Best LPN Programs of 2024
- The Most Affordable LPN Programs of 2024
- The Fastest LPN Programs of 2024
If you are considering alternative pathways like an ADN-RN or BSN-RN, check out these articles:
- The Fastest RN Programs in 2024
- The Best Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Programs in 2024
- The Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs in 2024
Consider these additional resources if you want to start with your LPN and transition to your ADN-RN and/or BSN-RN:
Q: Can I advance my career after an LPN/LVN?
Many LPNs look for further learning and development in their career and seek to increase their scope of practice and gain more autonomy in nursing. After gaining experience as an LPN, you may consider advancing your career by becoming an RN. If LPNs seek to advance their nursing career this way, they can enroll in a state-approved nursing program to earn their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
With additional education and training, ADN and BSN graduates hold higher competency and independence, thus also substantially increasing employability and earning potential.
Q: Is LPN/LVN better than ADN or BSN?
Whether an LPN/LVN, ADN, or BSN is better largely depends on an individual's career goals, time commitment, and resources.
An LPN program is typically the quickest path to nursing, often taking around one year to complete. LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs and doctors. However, their scope of practice is more limited than RNs, and they may have fewer opportunities for advancement.
An ADN program usually takes about two years to complete, allowing graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN to become an RN. RNs have a broader scope of practice than LPNs and can work in more specialized areas of healthcare. They also have more opportunities for advancement.
A BSN program typically takes four years to complete, though accelerated programs exist for those with an associate degree or a bachelor's degree in another field. BSN-prepared nurses are RNs but often have more job opportunities and higher earning potential than ADN-prepared RNs. Many hospitals and healthcare facilities prefer or require nurses to have a BSN, especially for leadership roles. Additionally, a BSN is typically required for those who wish to pursue advanced nursing roles, such as NP or clinical nurse specialist.