Nursing jobs are expected to increase within the next few years.
Because of the increasing elderly population and general increase in the demand for health-care providers, the health-care industry will need more trained professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of LPNs is expected to grow by 21 percent between 2008 and 2018, This is much faster than the average for all occupations. Many of the jobs for LPNs will be outside of the hospital setting.
Instructions
1. A prerequisite for entering a nursing program is a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Finish high school. You will need a high school diploma or an equivalency certificate. If you have not earned a high school diploma, and you are no longer in high school, you will need to enroll in a program for the equivalency certificate.
2. You can receive training at a college or technical school.
Identify a hospital, school, or institution that is approved by the state nursing board and enroll in an LPN program. You can enroll in a one-year diploma program or a two-year program to earn an associate's degree. If you already have a degree in another field, you may not have to take all of the required courses. The courses covered in the classroom include first aid, anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, patient care, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, nutrition and obstetric nursing. Clinical practice is usually in a hospital; however, in some states there may be other settings.
3. Prospective LPNs must pass the nursing.
Prepare for and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). The National Council Licensure Examination could have anywhere from 75 to 265 questions. The questions on the test deal with specific areas of client needs. According to the NCLEX guide, the four major areas are Psychosocial Integrity, Health Promotion and Maintenance, Safe Effective Care Environment and Physiological Integrity. The NCLEX has practice exams, study guides and flash cards to assist you as you study for the exam.
4. Begin your career as a Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse. The majority of LPNs are generalists; therefore, work is available in almost any area of health care. The job descriptions and requirements may vary depending on where LPNs work. For example, in a physician's office, your responsibilities may include record keeping, setting appointments and performing some clerical tasks. In a nursing home, an LPN may complete assessments, develop plans, and monitor nursing aides.
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