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Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) work under the direct supervision of RNs and physicians but are capable of performing most patient care tasks. These tasks include taking patients’ vital signs, temperature, blood pressure, and patient bathing. The only RN-specific tasks that LPNs are not able to do are to administer IVs, push pharmaceuticals, and hang the first unit of blood.
LPNs are called Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in Texas and California.
Read an interview with a current LPN in Career Profile: Licensed Practical Nurse.
Check out the article The Supply, Demand, and Use of Licensed Practical Nurses.
Average Annual Salary
$40,000
Educational Requirements
- Article: NursingLink’s Ten Step Guide To Becoming A Nurse
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Completion of one-year LPN program usually offered at a vocational or technical school.
Search our job listings for licensed practical nurse positions.
Check out this site for further information on advancing your nursing education.
Related Organizations
National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses
National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service
Featured Books
sweetnurse72
over 2 years ago
2 comments
I agree with Tammy714 we work just as hard as RN's and in the long term care we are it. You get us, working our butts off with all that goes on in 8 hours and no matter what you never have enough time to get your work done and I also get offended when I hear Oh, your just and LPN. .....
nickyredd
over 2 years ago
2 comments
I'm a single working mother of three daughters. My schedule rotates every six months and I want to become an LPN utilizing internet courses. Is there such a thing for LPN'S
tammy714
over 2 years ago
2 comments
I have been an LPN for 11 years. I have experience in ER, Labor and Delivery, Med/Surg, Geriatrics, and Pediatrics. I do more than vitals and basic patient care. The only things I'm unable to do that a RN can do are give IV push meds and hang the first unit of blood. I get offended when LPN's are protrayed as glorified techs. We are a very useful and valuable part of the nursing community!
gotpills
over 2 years ago
20 comments
What exactly is the difference between LPN/LVN? I plan on go to a vocational school for my training, do these titles apply state-wide or nationally?