Career Tips & Advice

What is Licensed Practical Nursing?

Concorde Staff

Concorde Staff

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Updated April 20, 2016. The information contained in this blog is current and accurate as of this date.
licensed practical nursing, concorde career college

Licensed practical nursing involves offering hands-on care to patients of all ages, and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), also called licensed vocational nurses (LVN) in some states, have the chance to work closely with patients offering both physical and emotional support. This career path is an excellent choice for those who have a passion to help others while working in the health care field.

At Concorde, we offer the training needed for students to get started in a career in licensed practical nursing. If you're considering our LPN program, here's a closer look at this career and the opportunities it has to offer you.

 

Licensed Practical Nursing Job Description

 

LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians, and they are responsible for providing much of the hands-on care required by patients, from laboratory procedures to wound dressings. Much of the time at work is spent  assisting patients with essential daily tasks, including bathing, dressing, and moving.

Other responsibilities and duties may include delivering medications, monitoring medical equipment, starting IVs, and checking vital signs. Although the responsibilities of a LPN/LVN may seem basic, they are essential for providing patients with the quality of care they need.

 

The Work Environment for LPN/LVNs

 

In many cases, a licensed vocational nurse works in inpatient settings, including nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, extended care facilities, and hospitals. However, as more medical procedures are being performed in outpatient medical centers, many LPNs are now working in outpatient surgery centers and physician offices.

Non-traditional settings where LPNs may also work include occupational health centers, home health care, schools, community programs, and correctional facilities.

 

The Job Outlook for a Licensed Vocational Nurse

 

Choosing to work in the medical field as an LPN is an excellent long-term career decision, since the need for LPNs is only expected to grow. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that demand for LPNs will grow 16% by 2024. The baby boomers continue to age, increasing the need for health care services.

 

Opportunities to Advance in Licensed Practical Nursing

 

Training as an LPN also provides you with opportunities for advancement. Many LPNs gain experience and move on to supervisory roles. Other nurses working in in-patient settings often have the chance to specialize in a specific clinical area. After obtaining your education as an LPN, it's also possible to go back to school to become an RN or to obtain another more advanced degree in the health care field.

To get started in licensed practical nursing , you'll need to complete an accredited LPN program and then pass a national exam. A career in health care is an excellent choice, and the job market is only going to grow in the future. Get started in your new career today learning more about Concorde's LPN program.

Take The Next Step Towards a Brighter Future

Interested in learning more about our Practical / Vocational Nursing program? We have a Concorde representative ready to talk about what matters most to you. Get answers about start dates, curriculum, financial aid, scholarships and more!

  1. Program length may be subject to change dependent on transfer credits and course load. Please refer to current course catalog for more information. Concorde does not guarantee admittance, graduation, subsequent employment or salary amount.

  2. Professional certification is not a requirement for graduation, may not be a requirement for employment nor does it guarantee employment.

  3. Financial aid is available to those who qualify but may not be available for all programs. Concorde does not guarantee financial aid or scholarship awards or amounts.

  4. Clinical hour requirements and delivery may vary by campus location and may be subject to change. Concorde does not guarantee clinical site assignments based upon student preference or geographic convenience; nor do clinical experiences guarantee graduation, post-clinical employment or salary outcomes.

  5. Registration and certification requirements for taking and passing these examinations are not controlled by Concorde, but by outside agencies, and are subject to change by the agency without notice. Therefore, Concorde cannot guarantee that graduates will be eligible to take these exams, at all or at any specific time, regardless of their eligibility status upon enrollment.

  6. Externships are a non-paid in-person learning experience, whose length and location may be subject to change. Concorde does not guarantee externship placement, graduation, post-externship employment or salary outcomes.