Practical nursing is a rewarding and important branch of nursing practice that balances personal development with the opportunity to impact human lives through patient care. Practical nursing programs prepare students to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs), who may also be referred to as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in some states. LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or doctors. The responsibilities of an LPN may include:
- Monitoring patients’ vital signs.
- Administering medications.
- Assisting patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing.
- Performing dressing changes and wound care.
- Reporting patients’ progress to RNs and physicians.
Practical nursing requires a formal educational pathway and a time-consuming licensing process due to the responsibilities and skills required in this role.
Educational pathways and program duration
Certificates or diplomas
Most practical nurses complete a certificate or diploma program which is the fastest and the most direct entry into the field. These programs generally last:
12 to 18 months full-time: This is the general time standard for finishing a practical nursing program. It comprises intensive classes and clinical instruction. These courses will make students well acquainted with knowledge and skill application.
18-24 months part-time: Students with work, family, or other demands have options for part-time. Although part-time courses can take longer, they allow for greater flexibility.
Associate degree in practical nursing (ADN)
Some institutions offer an associate degree in nursing (ADN), focused on practical nursing. It is not as frequent as diploma programs but has a broader view of education and offers general education before and in addition to nursing-specific training. These usually last for:
2 years full-time: Associate degree programs being longer than certificate programs and incurring additional time commitments could result in additional career advancement options or an easier transition to becoming an RN later.
Accelerated programs
Some schools offer special LPN courses which shorten the time taken to complete these programs for individuals with previous health-related experiences or an academic background relevant to health care. These programs can be as short as 6 to 12 months, depending on the program and the student’s qualifications.
Key components of the practical nursing program
Classroom instruction: students learn core knowledge about subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and nursing ethics. Medical terminology, patient care techniques, and infection control are among those commonly found in the course.
Clinical training: Practical training is an important part of nursing education. The students do supervised clinical rotations so they are in a hospital, home, or any other healthcare facility and undergo real-life situations. Such rotations have made developing a student’s ability and confidence in patient care much easier.
Licensing requirements
Besides completing a practical nursing program, the LPN graduates have to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) whereby passing the exam is the sole requisite for acquiring such a license. Knowledge and skills critical to delivering efficient and safe nursing practice are tested in the exam.
The time commitment for licensing
Preparing and taking the NCLEX-PN exam may add another 1 to 3 months to the timeline, depending on how fast a graduate schedules and prepares for the exam. Some graduates may work in certain healthcare settings pending licensure, but this varies by state.
Career prospects and opportunities
Joining a practical nursing program is a great step towards a healthcare careeer. Graduates may find employment in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, or provide in-home healthcare services.
Continuing education and career advancement
Continuing education helps practical nurses advance their careers in addition to improving patient care. Higher-paying jobs, more specialized responsibilities, and new prospects can all be explored with advanced training and certification.
Continuing education is the pathway many LPNs choose to take toward advancement in their careers, such as through Registered Nurse (RN) status or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Bridge programs such as LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN enable the practical nurse to continue leveraging existing education and experience, often shortening the time for attainment of advanced qualifications.
Is practical nursing the right choice for you?
Practical nursing provides an opportunity for individuals who are passionate about patient care and enjoy working in a team environment but prefer to avoid extensive training before receiving their first paycheck. Practical nursing programs typically range in duration from 12 months to 2 years. Now you can take the next step in your life by researching the accredited practical nursing programs available in your area, evaluating your schedule and competencies, and planning your journey to becoming an LPN. You can opt for the 1-year diploma program or even a 2-year associate degree, but the time you’ve put into your education, it will be time well spent because it will lead you to a very productive career opportunity.