How Do I Become a Nurse Part 2

Moving on up the career ladder, you may choose to become an LPN/LVN (Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse). LVN is the term used in California and Texas. The LPN or LVN program is generally about a one year (12-18 months) course of study typically from a vocational school or community college. Some adult education programs may also offer an LP/VN program.

Again, make sure the program is accredited. LP/VN programs are starting up all over the country and not all of them are accredited yet. Contact your state board of nursing or the NLNAC.

The LP/VN works under the direct supervision of a physician or an RN. The scope of practice for the LP/VN varies from state to state. Basically, the LP/VN provides bedside nursing care including assisting with ADLs (activities of daily living), vital signs, administering medications and treatments such as dressing changes, range of motion, inserting Foley catheters, enemas, etc. With additional training and certification, some states allow LP/VNs to start and hang IVs, and to perform venipuncture for lab draws.

It is not uncommon for people to choose to become an LP/VN as a means to support themselves as they pursue their RN (Registered Nurse). Some RN schools offer course credit to LP/VNs or allow you to challenge some courses through exams. This practice is not as common as it once was, however, with the shortage of nurses reaching crisis levels in some areas, we may see more of this again in the future.

LP/VN programs are usually offered through vocational schools, however some community colleges or adult education schools also offer LP/VN programs. Read more about How to Find a Nursing Program. Upon graduation from an accredited LP/VN course, the student will take a written examination called the NCLEX-PN. (See NCLEX pages for more information).

In some areas the LP/VNs are being phased out as trends towards using only RNs and patient care aides such as CNAs or UAPs (unlicensed assistive personnel) grow for economic reasons. However LPNs are still used in nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities and in sites such as home health, private duty, physician's offices and clinics. The nursing shortage has made many facilities revisit their choice to eliminate LP/VN positions and we may once again see more LP/VNs in hospitals.