A practical nursing career centers on providing essential care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. This profession is interesting and meaningful, as licensed practical nurses or licensed vocational nurses play vital roles in healthcare. They work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and in-home healthcare environments. To enter this profession, individuals must meet several requirements, including educational qualifications, skill development, licensure, and personal attributes.
Educational requirements
High school diploma or GED
The first step toward a career in practical nursing is obtaining a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. This requirement ensures that prospective students have the necessary education and preparation, demonstrating their foundational skills in math, science, and English, which are essential for success in a nursing program.
Enrollment in a state-approved practical nursing program
After completing high school or obtaining a GED, a student must enroll in an approved practical nursing program at an institution authorized by the state. These institutions typically include vocational schools, community colleges, and technical colleges.
Key features of a practical nursing program
Duration: Most of these programs typically last between 12 to 18 months, depending on whether a student attends full-time or part-time.
Curriculum: The programs generally cover essential subjects, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric care, geriatric care, and mental health nursing. Clinical training: These programs include clinical experiences, where students learn to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world patient care situations.
Licensing requirements
National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN)
Prospective licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) must take the NCLEX-PN examination before allowing them to practice for safe and effective nursing care.
Key aspects of NCLEX-PN
Content areas: The main content areas include health promotion and maintenance, safety and infection control, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity.
Format: This is an adaptive computer-based test, meaning the questions will change based on the test-taker’s performance.
Preparation: Candidates should review their coursework, take practice tests, and utilize study resources to prepare for this challenging exam.
Personal and professional skills
Successful practical nurses possess both personal and professional traits in addition to their degrees.
1. Kindness and empathy: Practical nurses must recognize and understand patients who are in pain, fear, or experiencing weakness. Their goal is to create a supportive and comforting environment, allowing patients to feel at ease.
2. Communication skills: Effective communication is essential. Nurses need to engage with patients, their families, and the healthcare team. This includes actively listening, explaining procedures to patients, and documenting patient information accurately.
3. Physical stamina: Physical fitness and endurance are crucial for practical nurses. They often work long shifts, stand for hours, and assist patients with mobility.
4. Critical thinking and problem-solving: Practical nurses frequently face challenging situations that require quick decision-making. They must possess critical thinking skills to assess patient conditions and anticipate possible implications or responses.
5. Time management and organization: Nursing involves managing care for multiple patients simultaneously and multitasking efficiently. Strong organizational and time management skills are essential for prioritizing responsibilities and delivering quality care.
Continuing education and career advancements
Maintaining licensure
To continue practicing in the field, licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) are typically required to complete a specified number of continuing education (CE) courses approved by their respective boards of nursing. These courses are essential for helping nurses stay updated on new practices, devices, and advancements in healthcare.
Advancing to registered nursing (RN)
Many practical nurses pursue career advancement by becoming registered nurses (RNs). This can be achieved by completing either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Advantages of advancing to RN:
There are several advantages to advancing to the RN role:
1. A broader scope of practice and responsibilities.
2. Higher earning potential.
3. Opportunities for leadership and specialization.
Challenges and rewards
There are several challenges associated with becoming a practical nurse, which are important within the nursing profession:
Time commitment: Completing the required education involves attending clinics and managing personal obligations.
Emotional and physical demands: The care provided to patients can be mentally exhausting and, at times, physically taxing for practical nurses.
Despite these challenges, practical nursing offers several benefits:
Job Security: Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) are expected to be in high demand shortly due to the aging population and increased healthcare utilization.
Job Satisfaction: Practical nursing allows nurses to make a significant impact in the lives of their patients, offering comfort and support during critical moments.
Conclusion
The practical nursing career is more challenging than many non-nursing fields because it requires a combination of academic preparation, licensing, and personal attributes. To become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), one must show significant dedication and a strong commitment, as the entire process—from completing a state-approved program to passing the NCLEX-PN and developing essential professional skills—is highly demanding. While the journey to becoming a practical nurse can be difficult and requires effort and determination, it ultimately leads to a successful and rewarding career filled with opportunities for personal growth and advancement. For those who have a deep passion for caring for others, practical nursing provides a meaningful way to make significant contributions to healthcare and leave a lasting impact on patients and their families.