How to become a Licensed Practical Nurse
Training to become an LPN does not require a bachelor's degree, but it does require an education beyond high school. Most licensed practical nurse programs last 12 to 24 months and include both classroom training as well as clinical training. They are most often run at technical or community colleges. The coursework to become an LPN includes nursing fundamentals, nursing math, pediatric and geriatric nursing, surgical nursing, anatomy, physiology and nutrition. After completing that coursework, you also need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination through the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
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Typical qualifications for a Licensed Practical Nurse
Certificates and licenses
About Practical Nurse (LPN) License
A license to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse and practice basic patient care in the United States, except for California and Texas, awarded upon completing an accredited practical nursing certificate program and passing the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses).
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About Vocational Nurse (LVN) License
A license to work as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and practice basic patient care in California and Texas, awarded upon completing an accredited practical nursing certificate program and passing the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses).
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About Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification
A certification awarded by an organization or association such as the American Heart Association or the Red Cross, upon completing a three hour CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) class.
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About Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification
Certification awarded after completion of training in conjunction with CPR training by the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
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Skills employers are looking for
About EMR systems
Electronic medical records software systems.
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About EHR systems
Electronic health records software systems.
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Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in United States
Career progression for Licensed Practical Nurse
Education levels for Licensed Practical Nurses
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 4.0% |
| Associate's degree | 3.0% |
| Bachelor's degree | 2.0% |
| Master's degree | 1.0% |
| Doctoral degree | 0.0% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $41,400 |
| 4 - 8 | $42,000 |
| 8 - 12 | $42,800 |
| 12 - 16 | $43,100 |
| 16 - 20 | $43,700 |
| 20 - 24 | $42,400 |
Common questions about career advices for a Licensed Practical Nurse
How long does it take to go from a licensed practical nursing (LPN) to a registered nurse (RN)?
It typically takes about two years to go from a licensed practical nursing (LPN) to a registered nurse (RN). LPN-to-RN bridge programs are designed specifically for LPNs to further their education and career path.
Would it be necessary to bring nursing certificates to a licensed practical nurse (LPN) interview?
It is usually not necessary but bringing copies of nursing licenses, resumes and certifications to a licensed practical nurse (LPN) interview can show the interviewer that you are prepared and well-organized.
How long is a typical licensed practical nurse (LPN) program?
The length of time it takes to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can vary. Some training programs can be as short as seven months while others can be twenty-four months.
