Licensed Practical Nurse

What Is A Licensed Practical Nurse?

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a person who has completed a state-approved and accredited nursing education program and has been licensed to provide basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. In some states, these nurses are called Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). 

Licensed Practical Nurses/Licensed Vocational Nurses: Job Responsibilities 

The duties of a Licensed Practical Nurse vary to some degree per their specific employment setting and situation. They also differ from one state to another per regulations put into place by each state’s Board of Nursing. However, most Licensed Practical Nurses/Licensed Vocational Nurses will be accountable for the following job responsibilities: 

• Monitoring patients’ vital signs 
• Working with nursing staff and patients to execute patient care plans 
• Monitoring and reporting patient status and needs to nurses and physicians 
• Keeping records on patients’ health 
• Cleaning wounds and changing dressings 
• Assisting patients with personal care tasks, such as bathing, dressing or feeding 
• Supervising Nursing Assistants and Aides 

In some states, LPNs/LVNs with advanced training may administer medications or start intravenous (IV) drips. They may also, depending upon the state, be charged with duties like collecting samples for lab tests, performing routine lab tests, applying and maintaining catheters, aiding in the delivery and care of infants, and helping with patient education on health and self-care matters, among other tasks.

LPN/LVN Employment Settings 

Licensed Practical Nurses and Licensed Vocational Nurses work in a wide variety of locations within the healthcare field. According to BLS figures, they held about 655,000 jobs in 2022, with their largest employer being nursing and residential care facilities, which accounted for 35 percent of those jobs. Local, state and private hospitals employed 15 percent of LPNs/LVNs in 2022, and 12 percent worked in physicians’ offices. Home healthcare services provided 13 percent of LPN/LVN positions in 2022, and 6 percent were employed by government. Other LPN/LVN employment settings include the military, assisted living centers, hospice facilities and corrections facilities, among others. 

Career Outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses/Licensed Vocational Nurses 

People who are thinking of becoming a LPN/LVN can expect a favorable job environment for advancing their career, according to BLS projections. The agency predicts that job growth for this occupation will be faster than the average for all occupations, with employment for LPNs/LVNs rising by 5 percent by the year 2026. 

BLS states that factors spurring that growth will include increased demand for healthcare services from the aging baby-boom generation, as well as increasing incidence of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity. Both of these factors are expected to increase the need for LPNs/LVNs in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, long-term care centers, home healthcare agencies and outpatient care clinics, among other healthcare settings. 

BLS also states that job prospects are likely to be most favorable for LPNs/LVNs who are qualified for specialties, such as IV therapy or gerontology, or those who are willing to work in rural areas or in locations that are medically underserved. 

While these projections can give career-minded people an idea of the potential of an occupation, it is important to realize that job market data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook is intended to provide insight on occupational opportunities. That data is not to be construed as a guarantee of salary or job title. Neither BLS nor Bryant & Stratton College can guarantee employment in any field. 

Additional Training/Requirements

Working as a Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse generally means passing a criminal background check and undergoing drug testing. Virtually all healthcare employment settings are required to screen employees for criminal histories and illegal drug use. 

Many employers also require candidates for LPN and LVN positions to be trained and certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Many nursing education programs offer CPR training, or training and certification can be obtained through the American Red Cross. 

LPNs and LVNs who wish to work in specialized fields may find that some employers require them to be certified for those specialties. Certifications are earned through professional associations, which generally means meeting the educational and work experience requirements set out by these organizations, then passing an exam administered by them. 

If you are interested in finding out more about the Practical Nursing field, please visit the healthcare degree section on the Bryant & Stratton College blog. Exploring our website can also provide further insights on building a successful and rewarding career in the nursing profession.