An LPN is responsible for administering basic healthcare services to patients. The job entails long hours, night shifts, and holidays. Typical tasks include recording a patient’s vital signs and reporting them to doctors. They also follow healthcare plans developed by RNs. Other responsibilities include maintaining medical equipment, collecting blood samples, and sterilizing instruments. If you are considering becoming a LPN, you can learn more about the job by reviewing the following information.
The job responsibilities of an LPN vary by location. Some areas don’t offer many job opportunities for LPNs, while others have significant growth potential. In rural areas, growth is likely to be slower, but there are still many opportunities. In the long-term care and hospice fields, LPNs will benefit from the fact that Americans are living longer and experiencing deteriorating health. Private hospice care and home health care will allow LPNs to take advantage of their certification.
LPNs can also work in the home setting. Some patients can live comfortably in their homes, and may only require supervision by a LPN. Other patients will need several hours of care a day. Some of these patients will require one-on-one LPN care for several days. LPNs will provide education and ongoing support to patients, so the medical plan can continue at home. The length of each shift will depend on the number of hours needed each day and week. The episodic visits can last one to two hours.
While LPNs have few job opportunities in areas with budget problems, they are able to find plenty of work. Long-term care and hospice are areas of growth for LPNs. The elderly population is living longer, and more people need the help of trained and compassionate caregivers. Those with certification in these fields will have the most opportunities to capitalize on their certifications. There are numerous options in these fields, including home health care and private hospice care.
Licensed practical nurses often work in hospitals. However, the demand for LPNs is declining in the outpatient setting. In hospitals, the shift from team nursing to a primary care model requires only one nurse to attend to all patients. This means that the demand for LPNs in hospitals is decreasing, but their skills and knowledge are still needed. The jobs are available in retirement communities, outpatient clinics, and nursing facilities. There are opportunities for LPNs in all types of settings.
Licensed practical nurses are a good fit for home health care. They help patients with basic health needs and ensure their comfort. They report the status of a patient to their doctors. They also give patients medications. They perform medical tests and analyze results. They supervise other workers. The LPNs can provide quality home health care and assist with administering them. In addition, they supervise other workers, such as physicians and medical assistants.