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Pathway: Nursing Services
Job: Licensed Practical Nurse
Job Description
Licensed Practical Nurses provide care for the sick, injured, convalescent and the disabled under the direction of physicians and registered nurses. They provide bedside care by taking vital signs, temperature, pulse and respiration. LPNs observe and report harmful reactions to medication or treatment. They also help patients with bathing, dressing and personal hygiene.
Necessary Education
Approved Practical Nursing Program (1 year)
Helpful High School Courses
Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, English, Health, Computer Applications
Working Conditions
- Usually works 40-hour week with nights, weekends and holidays required
- Work requires standing for long periods as well as lifting patients and equipment
- Work may be stressful
- Work involves hazards from chemicals, radiation and infectious diseases
- Work sites may include a doctor’s office, nursing home, clinic, home health agency, or hospital
Salary Range
- 2003, Delaware average annual salary,
$42,300
- 2003, Delaware average hourly wage,
$20.34
Career Ladder Information
- To become licensed, a graduate of a Practical Nursing Program must pass a licensing exam. This is required by all states.
- Associate Degree or Bachelor’s Degree in the health professions increases earnings
Personal Qualities and Interests
You:
- Are caring and have a sympathetic nature
- Are emotionally stable
- Have a keen sense of observation
- Have good decision making and communication skills
- Are able to follow orders and work under close supervision
Did you know?
- Nursing homes and home healthcare businesses will offer the most new jobs for LPNs
Additional Information
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