One of the first major accomplishments for a nurse is to receive their licensed practical nurse diploma. It is either the start of a wonderful career or it is seen as a stepping stone for other nursing positions. Schooling for this position usually takes a year, and you will receive a diploma or a certificate after you finish. Most of the people who enter this field have a heart for helping others and have a genuine desire for being in the medical world.
There are those who enjoy working as a licensed practical nurse. It pays very well compared to other occupations, starting around $15 a hour and can go up to $21 a hour. There is usually plenty of opportunities to gain overtime or to pick up extra shifts. However, in terms of what others receive in the medical field, the job is normally at the lower end of the pay scale. On the other hand, you won’t have to worry about job security because it is a position that is needed in almost every community.
It isn’t out of the ordinary for registered nurses to start their career as a licensed practical nurse. Some even enter the medical field as a nursing aid or medical assistant, but continue on in their education. If you are a LPN, the tasks you are responsible vary according to where you work. For instance, the duties will be different at a clinic, than at a hospice care facility. Basic duties are centered around caring for the injured, sick, terminally ill, or disabled patients. You will be under the close supervision of registered nurses and the facility’s physicians.
A LPN is also trained to administer all IV’s or drips, clean and dress wounds, bath patients, perform clerical duties, administer first aid, take blood pressure and temperature, monitor patients, make sure medication is taken and on time, and assist the rest of the medical staff in maintaining quality patient care. Some LPN’s will be responsible for an entire ward or only select patients. It depends on your experience and how large of medical facility you work at.
Image via Wikipedia
Many LPN’s work in clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living centers. Some even help with hospice care. The opportunities are almost endless, as there is a need everywhere. Plus, the demand for quality nurses continues to rise, as many long-time nurses are leaving because of a career change or because of retirement.
Many in the medical profession consider a licensed practical nurse to be the marines of a medical facility. They are in the frontline or the trenches for providing quality care. They are responsible for a lot of the tough work and will often fight for a patient, pushing them towards recovery. They want them to survive and get better. This is a rewarding job and is respected by many in the world.
Whether you use this opportunity as a stepping stone towards a more advanced career or degree, becoming a licensed practical nurse is considered a respected, rewarding, challenging career for someone with the right qualities and a desire to help others.
Related posts: