Licensed

Licensed Practical Nurse

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), in much of the United States and Canada, is a nurse who cares for people who are sick, injured, convalescent, or disabled. In the U.S., LPNs work under the direction of physicians, mid-level practitioners, and registered nurses.

Education and Licensing[edit | edit source]

To become an LPN, a person must complete a state-approved educational program, which typically takes about one year. These programs are offered at many community colleges, technical schools, and hospitals. After completing a program, prospective LPNs can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). In all states, they must pass this exam to get a license and work as an LPN.

Duties[edit | edit source]

LPNs provide basic nursing care. They work under the direction of registered nurses and doctors. Duties often include:

Monitoring patients' health
Administering basic patient care, including changing bandages and inserting catheters
Providing for the basic comfort of patients, such as helping them bathe or dress
Discussing the care they are providing with patients and listen to their concerns
Reporting patients' status and concerns to registered nurses and doctors
Keeping records on patients' health

Employment[edit | edit source]

Most LPNs are employed in nursing and residential care facilities. Others work in hospitals, physicians' offices, home healthcare services, and government agencies. In 2019, the median annual wage for LPNs was $47,480.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Licensed Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.