Health Career: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Who are licensed practical nurses and what do they do?
Licensed practical nurses, also called licensed vocational nurses (LVN's), work under the supervision of a doctor, registered nurse or nurse practitioner in offering patient care and services. They provide basic bedside care, including monitoring a patient's temperature, blood pressure, pulse and respiration. They may also be responsible for scheduling appointments, updating patient charts, taking medical histories and administering medications.
How do licensed practical nurses typically spend their workday?
As a licensed practical nurse, you will generally work in a hospital, clinic, doctor's office, home health agency or nursing home. You may work irregular hours such as nights or during weekends and holidays, since patients need round-the-clock care. On an average day, you may welcome patients into the doctor's office; process their medical information and accounts; take patients' weight, height and other information; and update their charts before sending them on to the doctor to be examined.
What does it take to be a good licensed practical nurse?
Effective licensed practical nurses typically enjoy helping others and don’t mind hard work. As a licensed practical nurse, you should be responsible and thorough. You should also enjoy working with patients and as part of a medical team.
What are some health-related jobs that are similar to that of a licensed practical nurse?
Home health aide, EMT, dental assistant, occupational therapy aide, physical therapy aide.
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