Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Program Overview
Aspiring LPNs and LVNs can enroll in programs at community colleges, technical schools, hospitals, and high schools. Requirements may vary by institution, but generally include a high school diploma or GED certificate and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
While prerequisite coursework beyond standard high school classes is not usually required, a strong background in math and science can benefit students. Vocational nursing applicants may need letters of recommendation and a resume.
The Best LPN Programs Online
Core Concepts in LPN/LVN Programs
LPN/LVN education prepares graduates to apply nursing processes in healthcare settings to aid in healing. These programs also focus on producing ethically sound professionals who adhere to the legal boundaries of LPN/LVN practice.
Struggling to meet your deadline?
Get your assignment on Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Program Overview done by certified MDs and PhDs in the USA. ORDER NOW!
- Typical Program Duration
Around 1 year - Typical Credit Requirements
Approximately 45-50 credits - Potential Earnings
An average of $47,480 per year
Source: Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Faster Entry
Becoming an LPN/LVN is a quicker and more cost-effective path to start a nursing career.
Path to Progress
Many LPNs and LVNs work for a year or two and then return to earn a bachelor’s degree.
Exploring Nursing
Becoming an LPN/LVN lets you gain experience and see if nursing suits you before committing to a longer program.
Skills Acquired
Patient care, teamwork, communication, and organizational skills.
Work Settings for LPN/LVN Graduates
Nursing Care Facilities
LPNs and LVNs work in nursing homes, handling tasks like checking vital signs, IV monitoring, enemas, bandaging, and catheter care. They can’t administer certain medications or start IV treatments.
Medical and Surgical Hospitals
Opportunities exist for LPNs/LVNs in medical and surgical hospitals. Their responsibilities include general assessments, patient data management, and physician-approved treatments.
Mental Health or General Nursing Care Facilities
In these settings, LPNs and LVNs plan, execute, and evaluate patient care procedures under the guidance of licensed RNs and doctors. They also adhere to health regulations like HIPPA.
Home Healthcare Services
LPNs and LVNs in home healthcare travel to patients’ residences to conduct exams and administer medication. They also manage patient records and coordinate with RNs or clinical management.
Physicians’ Offices
Physicians’ offices hire LPNs and LVNs to record patient medical histories, gather vital signs, change dressings, and apply casts. They may also assist during pelvic exams or administer vaccinations.
Earnings with an LPN/LVN Certificate or Diploma
– Mean Hourly Salary: $23.32
– Mean Monthly Salary: $4,042
– Mean Annual Salary: $48,500
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Learn More About LPN Nurse Careers and Salary Prospects
Becoming an LPN/LVN – Steps to Follow
1. Find an Accredited Practical or Vocational Nursing Program
LPN and LVN programs, approved by the state, are commonly offered by technical schools and community colleges, although some hospitals and high schools may also provide training.
2. Apply to LPN/LVN Programs
Applicants typically need a high school diploma or GED certificate. Some programs may require taking the TEAS exam.
3. Attend LPN/LVN Classes
These programs include academic, lab, and clinical components. Coursework covers nursing fundamentals and human anatomy, and clinical requirements can be fulfilled in healthcare settings like hospitals and nursing homes.
4. Graduate from an LPN/LVN Program
Students can complete an LPN/LVN program in one year to 16 months.
5. Register for NCLEX-PN Exam
This exam, administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), assesses a candidate’s readiness to work as a practical or vocational nurse.
6. Pass NCLEX-PN Exam
Candidates typically wait about six weeks for their scores. After passing, they can apply for licensure and begin working.
Entry-Level Nursing Programs
CNA Programs
ADN Programs
BSN Programs
Admission Requirements for LPN/LVN Programs
Aspiring LPNs and LVNs can enroll in programs at community colleges, technical schools, hospitals, and high schools. Requirements may vary by institution, but generally include a high school diploma or GED certificate and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
While prerequisite coursework beyond standard high school classes is not usually required, a strong background in math and science can benefit students. Vocational nursing applicants may need letters of recommendation and a resume.
Core Concepts in LPN/LVN Programs
LPN/LVN education prepares graduates to apply nursing processes in healthcare settings to aid in healing. These programs also focus on producing ethically sound professionals who adhere to the legal boundaries of LPN/LVN practice. LPN and LVN programs cover nursing competencies and theories, including topics like:
– Nursing fundamentals
– Human anatomy
– Medications
– Disease processes
Students also learn how to provide high-quality care and create effective care plans for different populations. Courses often include specialized care topics such as mental health nursing, maternal and pediatric nursing, and geriatric nursing.
Clinical and Lab Components in LPN/LVN Programs
LPN and LVN programs include clinical hours and lab components, with the required hours varying by state. Mandatory field experience typically ranges from 500-750 hours. The best programs provide practical experience to fully prepare graduates for the field.
What to Expect in an Online LPN/LVN Program
Prospective LPNs or LVNs can earn their degrees online. Courses may be asynchronous, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedules. Assignments may include exams, essays, and projects, with online discussion boards and email facilitating interaction with instructors and peers.
Some online courses follow a synchronous format, requiring live attendance through webcams. These programs usually mandate in-person attendance for clinical and field experiences.
Is an LPN/LVN Program Right for Me?
The nursing field offers professional opportunities at various levels, allowing you to start working without extensive education. Aspiring professionals seeking quick entry into the workforce often opt for LPN or LVN programs, which require just a year of education.
Professionals earning LPN or LVN credentials before pursuing RN programs gain valuable experience, giving them a competitive edge when applying to ADN or BSN programs. However, LPN certificates come with limitations, such as reduced scope of practice compared to RNs, no leadership roles, and lower salaries.
LPN/LVN Advantages:
– Requires only one year of schooling
– Allows quick entry into the workforce
– Provides a competitive advantage when applying to advanced nursing programs
LPN/LVN Disadvantages:
– Limits scope of practice compared to RNs
– Doesn’t qualify for leadership positions
– Earns lower salaries
– Must work under licensed professionals at all times
Questions About LPN and LVN Programs
Is an LPN/LVN a promising job?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 9% job growth for LPNs/LVNs from 2019 to 2029, indicating ample opportunities in the field. While the job can be demanding and physically taxing, it is also highly rewarding.
Should I become an LPN or a certified nursing assistant (CNA)?
Both LPNs and CNAs are entry-level healthcare positions that can lead to a nursing career. They both focus on patient care and require a high school diploma and state-approved education. LPNs need to pass a licensing exam, while CNAs must pass a state competency test. LPNs generally earn higher salaries.
How long does it take to become an LPN/LVN?
An LPN/LVN certificate program typically takes one year to complete, including 500-750 hours of clinical experience, depending on state requirements. Factors affecting the time-frame include enrollment status (full-time or part-time), clinical hours required by the school and state, and any general education requirements.
Dont wait until the last minute.
Provide your requirements and let our native nursing writers deliver your assignments ASAP.