Nursing can be an engaging and dynamic career providing care to patients with a robust level of specialization. While there are many opportunities for nurses at all levels, becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can be a great way to enter the field quickly, without having to spend too much time and money on education and certifications.
It’s important to understand how long it takes to become an LPN, the education and training required, and how the LPN position differs from other nursing positions. With the foundational education provided by a practical nursing program, becoming an LPN can be the first step toward a successful nursing career.
LPN Job Duties and Responsibilities
LPNs, also called licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), are essential healthcare professionals that provide basic patient care. Their duties involve hands-on tasks that vary depending on the day-to-day needs of the hospital or organization in which they work. These tasks may involve assisting with an influx of emergency care patients or helping RNs with their duties. Some other duties include:
Monitoring a patient’s vitals
Applying bandages to patients after a surgical procedure
Ensuring patient concerns are noted to physicians and RNs
Assisting with surgical procedures as necessary
Like most nursing positions, the responsibilities of LPNs are dependent on their qualifications. For example, when comparing LPN and RN duties, LPNs typically have duties that are more limited in scope due to their lack of equivalent credentials. Because they are licensed, LPNs have greater autonomy and can make more independent decisions in patient care than a certified nursing assistant (CNA). In some cases, LPNs may also supervise CNAs as part of their regular duties.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse?
The timeframe to become an LPN can vary. Typically, most individuals can begin practicing as an LPN after a few years of training for the position and meeting the necessary qualifications.
The first step to becoming an LPN is completing an accredited practical nursing program. These programs typically take between one to two years to complete and teach the foundations of practical nursing, including courses on anatomy, emergency care, and different types of nursing.
Next, an individual must pass the NCLEX-PN examination. This examination covers areas of practical nursing, such as safety management, health maintenance, and psychosocial and physiological integrity. After passing the exam and earning their license, individuals may then seek work as an LPN.
The exams work on a pass or fail measurement, so those who don’t pass will be informed of areas for improvement and may retake the exam after a given period of time, typically 45 days.
Benefits of Becoming an LPN
Becoming an LPN can offer many benefits to those considering the nursing profession. The path to becoming an LPN can be a quicker alternative than other paths, such as becoming an RN, which requires additional certifications and education. This can also benefit those who are considering becoming an RN but still want hands-on experience before seeking the necessary qualifications.
LPNs also offer a variety of job duties, giving professionals a career with versatility. Each day may rarely be the same as an LPN, as patients and daily tasks will fluctuate. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the most common work environment for LPNs is in nursing and residential care facilities. For those who want an engaging career in nursing but prefer work environments besides hospitals, becoming an LPN may also satisfy that goal.
LPN Job Outlook
In addition to the many benefits of becoming an LPN, this career has a positive job outlook. LPN and LVN careers have a projected growth of 5% between 2022 and 2032, according to the BLS. This is higher than the average 3% growth for all careers.
The BLS attributes this growth rate to the increasing population of aging patients in residential and at-home care facilities who typically need greater assistance, which LPNs are well-suited to providing. Additionally, chronic conditions are on the rise, and caring for these patients can be time-consuming for healthcare staff, as monitoring their vitals is often required. LPNs can fulfill this function and free up other nurses and healthcare staff for more specialized tasks.
Make a Difference in Healthcare as an LPN
When considering how long it takes to become an LPN, the potential benefits of getting a head start with hands-on experience in the field are clear. Fortis’s nursing programs, including their practical nursing program, can be a great entry point to a nursing career.
With a curriculum designed to teach students how to record and accurately interpret vitals, administer medications, address patient concerns, and assist in emergency care in various healthcare settings, Fortis can help you pursue an LPN career in as little as 15 months. Additionally, this program can offer students the theoretical knowledge and clinical experiences necessary to prepare for the NCLEX-PN exam.
Discover how you can make a difference in healthcare with Fortis.
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