Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and vocational nurses (LVNs) provide basic medical care, such as checking a patient's blood pressure. Duties of LPNs and LVNs vary, depending on their work setting and the state in which they work. For example, they may reinforce teaching done by registered nurses regarding how to help care for newborn infants, attend to the needs of inpatients, or collect laboratory samples for testing. Nurses must often be on their feet for much of the day. They are vulnerable to back injuries, because they may have to lift patients who have trouble moving in bed, standing, or walking.
LPNs and LVNs may be limited to doing certain tasks, such as feeding patients who cannot care for themselves, depending on the state where they work. For example, in some states, LPNs with proper training can give medication or start intravenous (IV) drips, but in other states LPNs cannot perform these tasks. State regulations also govern the extent to which LPNs and LVNs must be directly supervised. For example, an LPN may provide certain forms of care only with instructions from a registered nurse.
LPNs and LVNs must complete an accredited nurse training program. These programs award a certificate or diploma and typically take about one year to complete. They are commonly offered by technical schools and community colleges, although some nursing programs may be available directly through hospitals. Practical nursing programs combine classroom learning in subjects such as nursing, anatomy, human physiology, biology, and pharmacology. This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a solid foundation in the essential knowledge required for nursing practice. Programs also include supervised clinical experience and hospital rotations, providing hands-on training that is crucial for developing practical skills and real-world experience.
After completing a state-approved educational program, prospective nurses can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). In all states, they must pass this exam to obtain a license and work as an LPN or LVN. The NCLEX-PN is designed to test the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective nursing practice at the entry-level. Preparing for this examination typically involves reviewing course materials, taking practice tests, and possibly attending review courses. For more information on the NCLEX-PN examination and a list of state boards of nursing, prospective nurses can visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing website. Passing the NCLEX-PN is a significant milestone in a nurse's career, marking the transition from student to licensed professional.
Once licensed, LPNs and LVNs have the option to further specialize in their field by obtaining certifications in specialty areas such as gerontology and intravenous (IV) therapy. Specializing allows nurses to focus on specific populations or advanced techniques, enhancing their skills and career opportunities. For instance, certification in gerontology equips nurses with the expertise to care for the elderly, a growing demographic in healthcare. Similarly, IV therapy certification enables nurses to administer intravenous medications and fluids, expanding their scope of practice. Pursuing these certifications often involves additional coursework and passing specialized exams, demonstrating a commitment to professional development and excellence in nursing care.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification demonstrates proficiency in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques and basic life-saving skills. This certification is usually issued by organizations such as the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. BLS certification ensures that LVNs/LPNs are prepared to respond effectively to medical emergencies and provide immediate assistance to patients in critical situations. The training covers essential skills such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
| Certificate | Skills Required | Exam to be Taken |
| LPN-LVN Nursing | Patient care, basic medical procedures, vital signs monitoring | National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) |
| Gerontology | Care of elderly patients, chronic disease management, palliative care | Gerontological Nurse Certification (GNC) |
| IV Therapy | Venipuncture, IV insertion techniques, IV medication administration | IV Therapy Certification |
| Pediatrics | Care of infants and children, pediatric assessments, vaccination administration | Pediatric Nurse Certification |
| Mental Health | Psychological assessment, crisis intervention, therapeutic communication | Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Certification (PMHNC) |
| Dialysis | Procedures, patient monitoring, machine operation | Certified Dialysis Nurse (CDN) |
| Emergency Response | Medical procedures, triage, trauma management | Emergency Nursing Certification (CEN) |
Some LVNs/LPNs pursue additional training and certification in intravenous (IV) therapy to administer medications, fluids, and blood products intravenously to patients. IV therapy certification programs provide specialized education and hands-on training in venipuncture, IV insertion techniques, and IV medication administration. This advanced skill set allows nurses to perform more complex medical procedures, improving patient care and broadening their career opportunities.
This section offers practice tests in several medical areas. Each of the following multiple-choice tests has 10 questions to work on. No sign-up required, just straight to the test.
In this video we will discuss sympathetic and parasympathetic pharmacology, which will include a discussion about sympathomimetics, parasympathomimetics, sympatholytics, and parasympatholytics drugs.
As a nurse, you'll want to be familiar with basic ekg/ecg interpretations, how to identify heart rhythms, P waves, T waves, PR intervasl, QRS complexes, PR segments, ST segments, J point, QT intervals, and so forth. In this video, Nurse Sarah breaks down EKG basics and gives examples of how to measure different parts of a 6-second EKG strip.
Checking blood sugar (glucose) using a glucometer device (glucose meter). Learn how to use true result blood glucose meter by taking your blood glucose. As a new diabetic or nursing student,you must learn the skill of using a lancet to obtain a blood sugar.
Lung anatomy and physiology of gas exchange in the lung alveoli during respiration. This lecture details the anatomy of the lungs and how gas exchange in the lungs takes place between carbon dioxide and oxygen. The lung is made up of many components that participant in gas exchange.
An LPN/LVN has diverse responsibilities in providing compassionate, competent, and holistic nursing care to patients across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and home health agencies. They play a vital role in patient education, providing information and guidance on managing chronic conditions, adhering to treatment plans, and promoting healthy lifestyles. They educate patients and their families on medication use, dietary guidelines, home care procedures, and self-care techniques.
Attending college offers benefits beyond academic learning. Students are exposed to diverse perspectives that challenge their thinking. This fosters problem-solving and communication. College is also about social skills. Whether through student organizations or sports teams, students develop leadership skills and build lasting friendships.
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