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Career Information Description:
Provide patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse,
physician, or dentist. Job Description The
LP/VN is prepared to function as a member of the health-care team by exercising
sound nursing judgment based on preparation, knowledge, skills, understanding
and past experiences in nursing situations. The licensed practical/vocational
nurse does a large share of the direct patient care in health facilities
today. The LP/VN participates in the planning, implementation and evaluation
of nursing care in all settings where nursing takes place. Generally this
means providing for the emotional and physical comfort and safety of patients;
observing, recording and reporting to appropriate persons, changes in
patients' symptoms and conditions; performing more specialized nursing
functions such as administering medications and therapeutic treatments;
and assisting with rehabilitation. Earnings Salaries for Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses generally range from $15,000 to $33,000 with the average salary falling in the low $20,000's. Large metropolitan hospitals tend to pay more than nursing homes, and those with more experience will receive a higher salary. Where The Jobs Are Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses are utilized in every component of the health care delivery system, including:
Advancement Opportunities Some hospitals offer various opportunities for licensed practical/vocational nurses to advance; i.e., IV teams, treatment nurses, critical care settings, special procedure nurses, as a few examples. In some instances, at other facilities such as nursing homes, LP/VNs practice in the charge nurse supervisory roles. Education and Training Becoming a licensed practical/vocational nurse requires completion of a formal training program plus supervised clinical instruction. Practical nursing educational programs are offered by vocational schools and community colleges, and require high school diploma or the equivalent. Some programs require passing an entrance exam. Getting Started One area expected to grow tremendously is community and home health nursing. As insurance companies mandate shorter hospital stays, more patients will require nurses to help them recover at home. This is a good area to explore. School Information For board approved schools in your state, contact your local board of nursing for listing. The individual schools can provide you with a course description and requirements for graduation. License Exam Information National
Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. LPNs and LVNs: Know Your Nurse Practice Act
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