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LPN / LVN Certification

Most LPN / LVN programs last about 1 year and are normally offered by vocational / technical schools or community or colleges. LPNs must be licensed to practice in all states, so completing this 1 year program is pivotal.

The exam that LPNs must pass is called the NCLEX-PN, which can only be taken after passing a state-approved program. The exam is developed and administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. The NCLEX-PN is a computer-based exam and varies in length. The exam covers four major categories: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.

To be accepted into the majority of programs, you must have a high school diploma. There are some programs that do not require a high school diploma, but those are certainly in the minority. There are also programs that are integrated with your high school curriculum.

In 2006, there were more than 1,500 State-approved training programs in practical nursing.

Most programs include both classroom study and supervised clinical practice (patient care). Classroom study covers basic nursing concepts and subjects related to patient care, including anatomy, physiology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric nursing, the administration of drugs, nutrition, and first aid.

With regards to career advancement, LPNs can advance to become charge nurses who oversee the work of other LPNs and of nursing aides. LPNs can also advance and become RNs by completing an accelerated LPN / LVN training program. This is a popular career path and allows LPNs to gain more responsibility in the hospital while also garnering a higher pay. Get free information about LPN/LVN to RN programs

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