Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are a vital part of the health care
system and participate in a variety of different work settings. They
perform duties that may include giving injections, taking vital signs,
performing basic diagnostic tests, observing patients, dressing wounds,
and administering medication. They also assist patients in daily living
activities such as eating, dressing, exercising, and bathing. LPNs usually
work under the supervision of registered nurses, physicians, and/or
dentists. Additional training is available to allow LPNs to care for
patients in specialized areas such as pediatrics, surgery/recovery,
obstetrics, and psychiatry. Licensed practical nurses are often
responsible for observing patients, recording their reactions to
medications and treatments, and reporting the results to the registered
nurse or physician in charge. Individuals interested in becoming a
licensed practical nurse should be intelligent, tactful, caring, and
possess sound judgment. These skills, along with good health and physical
stamina, are very important in this line of work. LPNs should also have a
sincere interest in people and be able to maintain good interpersonal
relationships with them.
Work Environment:
Licensed Practical Nurses work in various health care facilities that
include hospitals, nursing homes, dental offices, mental health
institutions, private homes, community health clinics, and public health
departments.
High School Preparation:
Individuals interested in a career as a licensed practical nurse should
take high school courses in biology, chemistry, algebra, psychology,
emergency medical technology, first aid, physical education, foods and
nutrition, child growth and development, health occupations/medical
professions, computer skills, English, geometry, and history.
College Requirements:
Students entering a practical nursing program must have a high school
diploma or the equivalent. An applicant must complete an accredited
program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for licensed
practical nurses. Programs include classroom as well as supervised
clinical practice in patient care. Individuals interested in becoming a
licensed practical nurse should contact schools for information on
admission and course of study.
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study
click here.
Career Outlook:
Employment opportunities for licensed practical nurses are expected to be
excellent in the years to come. There is an expected growth of 10%-20%
through the year 2010 for this area of nursing. Nursing schools are
graduating far more LPNs than they have in the past in order to keep up
with the demand in the job market. As with most other professions, the
need to replace current employees will continue to be the main source of
job openings. The growing elderly population, which requires more care
from trained personnel, and the general growth of health care will also
cause this job market to expand. Another area of exceptional growth for
LPNs will be in nursing homes. Long-term care of elderly patients will be
an increasing concern to the nation's health care system.
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Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$32,400
Salary Range
$24,300 to $37,600
Professional Organizations:
National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses
893 US Hwy 70 West, Suite 202
Garner, NC 27529
Phone: (919) 779-0046
Web: www.nflpn.org
American Hospital Association
Division of Nursing
840 North Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: (312) 422-3000
Web: www.aha.org
Mississippi LPN Association
607 Rosemary Drive
Gulfport, MS 39507
Phone: (601) 388-5778
Download our
LPN brochure
here.
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