What does a Licensed Practical Nurse do?

Depending on their work environment, LPNs may act as primary patient advocates or handle routine clinical tasks to support Physicians and other healthcare providers. Consider providing some context for applicants in your LPN job description regarding the expected duties.

Licensed Practical Nurse skills and qualifications

Successful LPNs can integrate seamlessly into clinical teams or support functions within a medical facility or office. Skills you may list on your Licensed Practical Nurse job description include:

• Ability to administer medication orally or by injection

• Knowledge of medication safety to alert physicians of any observations during care

• Understanding of wound care, such as dressing, cleaning and otherwise caring for patient wounds

• Knowledge of infection control practices and how to promote patient safety and hygiene

• Soft skills, such as empathy and interpersonal and communication, to support positive patient experiences

• Proficient in working with digital medical records systems

Licensed Practical Nurse experience requirements

When hiring an LPN, candidates likely have hands-on experience in clinical settings, as it’s typically required for the credential process. However, you may detail specific experience requirements to attract candidates that align with the position’s needs. For instance, when writing a nursing home LPN job description, you could indicate a preference for candidates with experience working in nursing homes or with geriatric patient populations.

Licensed Practical Nurse education and training requirements

LPNs must complete a Nurse education program. These programs are often offered by community colleges and other institutions that offer one- or two-year degree programs. After completing a degree or certificate program, LPNs must undergo the licensure process in their state, which may include a background check and exam.

Job description samples for similar positions

If you need to create a job description for another nursing role or non-nursing position, you can find relevant resources in our database. Consider other job descriptions, including:

• Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

• Registered Nurse (RN)

• Home Health Nurse

• Nursing Assistant

Licensed Practical Nurse FAQS

What’s the difference between an LPN and an RN?

An RN is a Registered Nurse. This role typically requires a bachelor’s degree and different clinical experience. RN and LPN job requirements also differ. Registered Nurses are responsible for patient care. They may handle more complex clinical tasks than LPNs.

Who does an LPN report to?

In a hospital setting, an LPN usually reports to a Nurse Supervisor or Charge Nurse. In other settings, LPNs may report to Doctors, Clinical Supervisors or Office Managers.

Does an LPN have supervisory responsibilities?

Whether the LPN has supervisory responsibilities depends on your organizational chart. In a Physician’s office, for example, an experienced LPN might oversee other employees. An experienced LPN may also supervise Certified Nursing Assistants in an assisted living community.

What traits make for a good LPN?

In addition to relevant clinical skills, LPNs need empathy and compassion to help them engage with and support patients. Strong organizational skills can help them manage caseloads and important details while maximizing patient experience. Excellent communication skills may also help these clinicians update Physicians on critical details about patient wellness.