LPN’s work in healthcare settings is to provide specialised care to the patients. They are responsible for the primary care of the patient. They help patients in performing their daily activities and also perform various duties like monitoring patients vitals, taking care of wounds, and administering medications. They require comprehensive skills, proper clinical knowledge, and strong communication skills in order to provide safe and effective care to the patients. They serve as a link between patients and other healthcare teams and work in healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. To become a practical nurse, one usually requires the completion of a formal school program that lasts anywhere from one to two years, depending on the region and educational institution. Eligible LPNs need to pass a licence exam in order to be certified to practice after completing their educational requirements.
Requirements to become an LPN
Once your LPN training is completed, your certification is awarded. But you still need to complete your licence examination to work as an LPN. The national licensing test for practical nursing (NCLEX-PN) is supervised by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Passing the exam allows you to obtain your licence and work as an LPN. Each country or state has its own requirements to get a licence.
How long does it take to become a licensed practical nurse?
It may take 12 to 18 months to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN). It depends if you are enrolled in full-time or part-time programs.
- In full-time programs, you will learn important aspects of clinical practice, such as how to prepare for the licensure exam. It takes about a year to a year and a half to complete.
- Part-time programs provide flexibility to the students who have working or other life commitments.
- Accelerated programs are completed in a shorter period of time, but it requires more effort and time.
Types of LPN programs
Types of LPN programs include:
Diploma program: these programs are completed in almost one year.
Associate degree programs: these programs are completed in about two years and provide comprehensive education on practical nursing.
Accelerated programs: Some institutions offer accelerated options for students with prior healthcare experience or degrees, allowing them to complete the program in less time.
Average cost of LPN classes
The average cost of LPN classes is between $10,000 and $30,000 for the entire program, and it widely depends upon various factors such as location, type of institution (public or private), and program duration.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees usually fall between $3,000 and $15,000 in community colleges. Online programs may charge similar rates as traditional schools but could incur additional fees for technology or clinical placements.
Additional costs
Books and other supplies: Nursing textbooks can be expensive, typically ranging from $500 to $1,500.
Uniforms and tools: You may need to purchase scrubs, a stethoscope, and other clinical tools, costing approximately $200 to $500.
Exam cost: After completing the program, you’ll need to take the NCLEX-PN exam. The exam fee is around $200, but additional costs for study materials may apply.
Cost of part-time and online LPN programs
Part-time and online LPN programs are designed for students who need to maintain balance between work, study, and other personal life commitments. These programs are flexible, and the cost of these programs varies depending upon their timing and services provided.
Factors influencing the cost
There are various factors that may influence the overall program cost. These factors include:
Location
The program’s cost depends upon location. It varies greatly from one state to another. In some areas, the cost of the entire program is higher than other areas.
Program length and structure
Program length and structure also influence the cost of the program. Longer programs are expensive as compared to the shorter ones.
Financial aid opportunities
Financial aid availability has a big influence on your net cost of the program. It is crucial to look into all available financial assistance options because scholarships, grants, and loans can all help with tuition costs.
Different financial aid options
Financial aid options may include federal and state grants, scholarships offered by educational institutions, and private scholarships from organisations dedicated to supporting healthcare education.
Conclusion
LPN programs are designed to deliver the best skills and knowledge to the students working in the healthcare sector. These programs make sure that students are equipped with the best hands-on training to provide safe and effective care to the patients. The average cost of LPN classes is between $10,000 and $30,000 for the entire program, and it is greatly affected by various factors such as location, type of institution (public or private), and program duration. Becoming an LPN provides you a path to a fulfilling and rewarding career. With comprehensive planning and understanding of the cost, you can choose an LPN program and take the first step toward a meaningful career in nursing.