The prospect of being a licensed practical nurse (LPN) can be a thriving career opportunity in the healthcare field. Also, the LPNs program requires a shorter duration for certification when compared to other medical careers. Therefore, LPNs are highly increasing in the world’s health sector. Hence, to cater to this yearning urge, we have decided to publish this article on How Long Does It Take To Become An LPN?
Are you interested in Nursing? or do you want to be an LPN? If so, stay glued to this article as we have all possible answers to your questions.
Also, LPN programs take about 12 months in various countries in the world and they are highly paid for their services. Meanwhile, it is also a budding career with a high employability rate in the world.
Who Is A Licensed Practical Nurse – LPN?
An LPN is a professional who plays significant roles in hospitals, clinics, and other medical setups. Also, among the roles played by LPNs are communicating between patients and doctors, administering medicines, and caring for patients.
Furthermore, they may assist patients in eating, bathing, and dressing. Moreso, LPNs work hand in hand with registered nurses (RNs) or doctors for effective functioning.
What Does An LPN Do?
A Licensed Practical Nurse may perform any of the following works in a medical organization. However, LPNs may also perform other functions depending on the need.
What are the steps involved in becoming an LPN?
Below are the steps involved for you to be a licensed practical nurse. Hence, prospective students should take note of the following details;
1. Choose either to earn a diploma, certificate or degree
The pioneer step to becoming an LPN is to conclude on what credentials the best suit your career goals. While diploma and certificate programs may serve the immediate task of being an LPN, It may not be efficient for furthering your studies.
2. Finish an accredited education program
The next step is to complete an accredited program based on the state you intend to practice in.
3. Merit the required minimum in NCLEX-PN
After completing an approved LPN diploma, certificate, or degree program. Then you have to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). However, the organizing body of this exam may differ by state.
Also, this test is often computer-based and a candidate who fails may have to wait for over 45-90 days before reattempting.
4. Consider additional certification
Furthermore, LPNs who want to highly employable in any clinical sector should endeavor to up their skills and certification. Likewise, this step is important before entering the workforce to beat off competitions from other LPNs.
5. Enter the Workforce
The ultimate goal of all LPNs is to secure a job. Hence, after completing the above step, you should apply for your first job. However, LPNs should note that the higher their certification, the better their chances of securing a lucrative job and pay.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Licensed Practical Nurse – LPN?
In order to be an LPN, candidates should meet an approved training program depending on their state of practice. Also, most LPNs programs take up to 1 year (12 months) and require a minimum of 36-40 hours of coursework.
Furthermore, some LPN programs may be lesser than 12 months for certification.
What is the coursework for an LPN program?
LPN programs require some general knowledge in some basic prerequisite courses such as Psychology, History, Computer, biology, etc. Moreso, lab work, and clinical practice are also necessary. Below are some of the coursework for an LPN program:
NOTE: Coursework may differs depending on the curriculum used by respective licensing country.
Areas to focus on for NCLEX-PN.
The NCLEX-PN are often computer based. Below are some of the key areas to focus on:
What Are The Basic Requirements To Enrol For An LPN Program?
Individuals who aspire to be an LPN must have finished a high school program or merited the (GED) General Educational Development exam. Also, all aspirants should take note of the following requirements:
What is the salary of an LPN
The average salary for an LPN differs from the experience and nature of the job. Likewise, starting LPNs earn around $35,490 annually. Furthermore, LPNs who have over five years of work experience are paid around $45,710 annually. This amounts to an average of $21.98 per hour.
Meanwhile, some LPNs earn as much as $52,220 as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The pay differs from experience and proficiency at work.
How do I apply for NCLEX-PN
To apply for NCLEX, you have to follow a two-step registration process. Hence, below are the steps to take when applying:
Also, applicants can either use internet registration through the Pearson VUE website or telephone registration through Pearson VUE NCLEX Candidate Services.
NOTE: The NCLEX-PN is used for U.S. licensure only.
FAQs on How Long Does It Take To Become An LPN
Can I take LPN programs online?
Yes! LPN programs could be done online. Meanwhile, you cannot do a complete LPN program online. Some classes would be offline on-campus and practical
How much is the NCLEX-PN licensing/registration fee?
In order to register for the NCLEX-PN licensing exam, you are expected to pay an amount of $200. Meanwhile, the fee could differ annually as regulated by the examining body.
Are LPNs respected in society?
Generally, professionals in the clinical and health sector are highly respected for the nature of their work. Mankind values their health and would always be grateful to anyone who works to make them better.
What is the salary of an LPN
The average salary for an LPN differs with the experience and nature of job. Likewise, starting LPNs earn around $35,490 annually. Furthermore, LPNs who have over five years of work experience are paid around $45,710 annually. This amount to an average of $21.98 per hour.
Conclusion
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) works collectively with other medical practitioners in hospitals. Also, becoming an LPN is quite easy and straightforward as it takes within a year. Thus, if you are looking to work in the health sector, one of the fastest ways of being a nurse is through the LPN program.
Likewise, it is a very lucrative job and your pay gets better with experience and proficiency.
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