Career Profiles: Licensed Practical Nurse

On Becoming a Licensed Pratical Nurse

According to the American Nurses Association, "essence of nursing is that nurses combine the art of caring with the science of health care."

The career profile of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is one that is gradually changing in conjunction with the growing, global demand for nurses.

What is a licensed practical nurse?

A licensed practical nurse is a health care graduate from a community college, who works under the directives of registered nurses or doctors, in many provinces in Canada and most of the states in the US. In Ontario, Canada, a nurse with the same status is a registered practical nurse (RPN). In California and Texas, in the US, he or she is a licensed practical nurse (LVN).

How does education and training for a licensed practical nurse differ from that of a registered nurse?

Prospective, licensed practical nurses pursue a two-year college diploma. On the other hand, a registered nurse is required to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSCN) degree, from an accredited college or university.

Licensed practical nurses carry out many different kinds of patient care, but do not assume the same high level of responsibility required of registered nurses. They are gaining increased levels of responsibility in various areas of nursing, when they are properly trained for them. 

Is the cost of education as a licensed practical nurse affordable?

The cost of nursing education is increasing everywhere, but at this time, becoming a licensed practical nurse is still relatively affordable. Training as a licensed practical nurse is less costly than that of training to become a registered nurse and thus, it is a financially viable option for those who want to train in some capacity to become nurses.

Licensed practical nurses have the option to pursue ongoing upgrading in terms of their education and may become registered nurses, if they desire to do so, later.

It is a viable, employment option for registered nurses from other countries, who work in the capacity of licensed practical nurses, until their registered nurse certification is established.

For many young men and women, becoming a licensed practical nurse is a step towards becoming a registered nurse.

Why is the status of the LPN currently in transition?

Because of rising health care costs, the number of registered nurses hired is decreasing, while the number of licensed practical nurses hired is on the increase. Of course, this can vary from area to area. Globally, the world population continues to increase too, creating an increased demand for nurses.

Training for licensed practical nurses includes placement in various health care settings including hospitals, nursing homes, group homes, doctor’s offices or community long-term facilities where nurses are required.

The salary scale for licensed practical nurses varies depending upon location. It is in relation to the salary accorded to registered nurses. Benefits may be available depending upon the location of employment.

Course requirements for licensed practical nurses vary from state to state, in the US and from province to province, in Canada.

Certification as a licensed practical nurse is required for employment. Union membership may be obligatory depending upon one’s place of employment.

Ideally, the person who chooses to become a licensed practical nurse is a well motivated, positive and constructive individual with a strong science background, who communicates with people effectively. He or she demonstrates consistent care, concern and compassion for people and shows the ability to work with them in terms of inter-personal relationships. On becoming a licensed practical nurse, he or she will be able to bring about effective resolution with respect to health care concerns, issues and problems.