Is becoming a licensed practical nurse right for me?
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How to become a Licensed Practical Nurse
To become a licensed practical nurse, you will typically need to follow these steps:
- Meet the educational requirements: Licensed practical nurse programs usually require a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may also require prerequisite courses, such as anatomy and physiology.
- Complete an accredited licensed practical nurse program: Licensed practical nurse programs are offered at vocational schools, community colleges, and some universities. LPN programs usually take about 12 to 18 months to complete and include classroom instruction as well as clinical training.
- Obtain a nursing license: After completing an licensed practical nurse program, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed. The exam covers the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level practice as a licensed practical nurse.
- Gain work experience: Many employers prefer licensed practical nurses with some work experience, so it can be helpful to work in a healthcare setting, such as a nursing home or hospital, to gain experience.
- Pursue continuing education: Licensed practical nurses may need to complete continuing education courses to maintain their licensure, and some choose to pursue additional nursing education to become a registered nurse.
Certifications
There are several certifications available for licensed practical nurses that can enhance their skills and knowledge, and improve their job prospects. Here are some of the most common certifications for LPNs:
- IV Certification: This certification allows LPNs to administer IV medications and fluids, which is a valuable skill in many healthcare settings.
- Wound Care Certification: This certification trains LPNs to provide specialized wound care, including dressing changes and wound assessment.
- Medication Administration Certification: This certification focuses on the safe administration of medications, including dosage calculation and medication interactions.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification: This certification teaches LPNs how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic life-saving techniques in emergency situations.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification: This certification is for LPNs who work in critical care areas and emergency departments, and focuses on advanced techniques for managing cardiac arrest and other life-threatening conditions.
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Certification: This certification is for LPNs who work with pediatric patients and focuses on advanced techniques for managing life-threatening conditions in children.
- Gerontology Certification: This certification focuses on the specialized care of elderly patients, including issues related to aging, chronic illnesses, and end-of-life care.
- Occupational Health Nursing Certification: This certification is for LPNs who work in occupational health settings, and focuses on the assessment and management of work-related injuries and illnesses.
Associations
There are several professional associations for licensed practical nurses that provide resources, education, and networking opportunities to support the growth and development of LPNs in their careers. Here are some of the most prominent associations for LPNs:
- National Association of Licensed Practical Nurses (NALPN): NALPN is the professional association for LPNs and LVNs in the United States. They provide resources such as continuing education opportunities, certification programs, and networking events to support the growth and development of LPNs.
- National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN): NFLPN is another national association for LPNs and LVNs, which provides educational resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for its members.
- American Nurses Association (ANA): ANA is the professional association for registered nurses in the United States, but they also offer membership to LPNs. ANA provides resources such as continuing education opportunities, certification programs, and advocacy for all nurses.
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): NCSBN is a non-profit organization that provides resources for regulatory bodies that oversee nursing practice, including the licensing of LPNs. They offer educational resources and advocacy for nursing professionals.
- State Nursing Associations: Many states have their own nursing associations that offer resources and networking opportunities for LPNs. Examples include the California Licensed Vocational Nurse Association, the Florida Association of Licensed Practical Nurses, and the Texas Vocational Nurse Association.