Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are responsible for monitoring and interpreting a patient’s vital signs, recording their medical history and reporting any adverse reactions to medications. They also work under the supervision of a registered nurse and may perform a variety of other duties. They may also work as a massage therapist or assist with physical stress. While most LPNs are responsible for providing basic medical care in a hospital, some also work independently in other settings.
In addition to assisting in critical care, LPNs can work in other settings, such as school settings. A school nurse will assess the health and well-being of students and provide care to those in need. Forensic nurses may help coroners with their work, if they are trained in this specialty. A nursing degree in a related field is beneficial for candidates who are interested in victim advocacy or criminal justice. Listed below are some of the top areas to find LPN jobs.
LPNs are highly valued by employers in many settings. While working in a physician’s office, LPNs often assist in other areas of medicine. For example, they may perform vital signs monitoring and administer medications. Some LPNs may even help with testing. This type of job usually offers stable hours and a consistent schedule. In some cases, LPNs who are particularly interested in a particular area of medicine can work with a doctor who specializes in that area.
The growing need for LPNs is also a direct result of an aging population. An increasing number of people will be over 65 by 2060, which will increase the need for nurses. LPNs will be needed in hospitals and residential care facilities, as well as in home health environments. This increase in demand for nurses will continue for the next decade. If you’re thinking about pursuing a nursing career, now is the time to apply. And there are many opportunities available.
LPNs typically require a two-year degree in nursing and need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination before they can start working. Licensed practical nurses can also specialize in certain areas of nursing, such as gerontology and intravenous therapy. Moreover, some states offer certificate programs in nursing. And many community colleges also offer these programs. These programs also require a student to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) before they can work as an LPN.
The salary of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) varies, but on average, they make nearly $48,000 a year. The highest-paid ten percent earn over $63,660 a year. However, salaries may vary by location, experience level, and other factors. But once you’ve earned your license, you can start applying for higher-paying positions. You can also advance your education and obtain higher-level nursing certifications to earn more money.
Hospice is a specialty that involves caring for patients at the end of their lives. As a LPN, you’ll be responsible for providing comfort and support to patients and their families. During this difficult time, you’ll need to deal with difficult situations and often witness the death of patients. Some elder care facilities even have a hospice-only area. If you’re interested in the geriatric field, it might be an excellent choice.