Patient care nurses
What Is a Practical Nurse? (Salary and How To Become an LPN)
Updated February 3, 2023
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What is a practical nurse?
A practical nurse, or licensed practical nurse (LPN), is an entry-level medical professional who's completed a degree program in practical nursing and the national exam requirements to earn a license to practice as an LPN. They provide basic and specialized medical care to a diverse range of patients. These professionals can work in a variety of health care settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, long-term care facilities, in-home health care facilities, rehabilitation centers and private practices under the supervision of registered nurses (RN) and physicians.LPNs typically perform basic medical tasks, such as:- Taking and monitoring patients' symptoms and vital signs
- Taking blood, urine or tissue samples for analysis
- Changing wound dressings, bandages and bedpans
- Inserting catheters into patients
- Preparing patients for medical procedures or surgeries
- Supporting patients during treatments and diagnoses
- Documenting patients' medical information
- Reporting the health status of patients to the supervising RNs or physicians
LPN vs. other nursing professions
LPNs share some similarities with other licensed nursing professionals, but there are several differences between the LPN profession and other nursing roles. Here are the key differences between an LPN and similar nursing fields:LPN vs. RN
The biggest difference between an LPN and RN is the certification and education level each role requires. RNs can complete training in a variety of ways, from obtaining an associate degree in nursing (ADN) to completing a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN). LPN training typically takes a minimum of one year to complete. RNs generally obtain more in-depth education and training that may take a minimum of two years. Despite these differences, many LPNs choose to advance their careers over time by continuing their education to obtain an RN certification.There are also differences in the job duties that LPNs and RNs perform. An LPN can provide basic patient care, while a certified RN can take on more dynamic tasks in providing care to patients. RNs also typically have more responsibility than LPNs do. Unlike LPNs, RNs can administer treatments and medications to patients and perform diagnostic testing. They may also be responsible for managing nursing aids and LPNs.Related: Learn About Being a Registered Nurse (RN)LPN vs. CNA
The key difference between LPNs and CNAs is their required education and certification. CNAs can complete their certification training in as little as three to six months, depending on the program. Completing a CNA program results in a certification, not a degree. LPNs typically earn an ADN before they receive their LPN certification.LPNs can provide a higher level of medical care to patients, such as updating their medical records and assisting RNs. They may even take on supervisory roles to manage CNAs in administering patient care. CNAs commonly perform basic patient care and document it for an LPN to review. They may help patients with eating and bathing. Unlike LPNs, CNAs aren't licensed nurses and can't make independent decisions. A CNA can advance their career over time by furthering their education to become an LPN.Related: What Is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?Average salary of a practical nurse
The national average salary for an LPN is $57,254 per year. There may be some states that have higher salary averages. Here are some states where LPNs may earn more than the national average salary. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, visit indeed.com/salaries.- Minnesota: $57,878 per year
- Alaska: $58,032 per year
- Illinois: $58,600 per year
- Virginia: $58,883 per year
- Washington: $60,765 per year
- New York: $61,272 per year
- Massachusetts: $61,550 per year
- California: $62,056 per year
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How to become a practical nurse
If you're considering a career as an LPN, you can expect to complete several requirements before entering the field. You must complete an accredited training program to earn your certificate. After earning this, you're eligible to take the national certification exam to earn your state LPN license. Obtaining both a certification and license is essential for you to work as an LPN legally.Here are the steps you can take to become an LPN:1. Meet the education and training requirements
To become an LPN, you need to complete an accredited program for practical nurses. Many community colleges and technical institutes offer LPN training programs. These programs typically take one year to complete, but some may take 24 months. To enroll in an accredited LPN training program, you must obtain your high school diploma or an equivalent and pass an entrance exam for admittance into the program.Courses in LPN training programs usually include:- Nursing
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- First aid
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
- Emergency medical technology
- Child growth and development
- Pharmacology
- Patient care techniques
2. Obtain licenses and certifications
After you complete your formal LPN training, you receive your certification in practical nursing. Even though state-approved practical nursing programs result in certification, you still need to complete your licensing examination to work as an LPN. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) proctors the national licensing examination for practical nursing (NCLEX-PN). Passing the exam enables you to obtain your LPN license and begin working as an LPN. Each state has its own requirements for granting licenses to nurses, so check with your state's nursing board for specific details.Related: 20 Helpful NCLEX Test-Taking Strategies and How To Use Them3. Consider advancing in the field
Many LPNs continue their training and education to advance in the nursing field. Nursing specialty certificates are also available to LPNs who choose to advance in specific nursing specialties. You can also advance to supervisor or manager roles while working as an LPN or pursue an advanced degree in nursing and become an RN. Other career advancement opportunities include training to become a registered midwife, recreational therapist or diagnostic medical sonographer. Some colleges and universities offer programs for current LPNs who desire to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing.Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.Video: Nursing Interview Question: Why Do You Want to Work Here?
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