LPN Schools and Degree Programs
(found programs from 1472 campuses)

Let’s start with a little background information. There are several levels within the nursing profession and it's not always easy for non-nurses to tell them apart. A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) represents one level. LPNs may wear the same type of uniform and appear to do the same work as registered nurses (RNs), but they have a more limited scope-of-practice than RNs do. RNs can work independently in many different clinical settings, but LPNs are required to work with supervision either by an RN or a physician. State nursing practice laws spell out exactly what type of work is allowed for each level of nursing.

Where are the Best LPN Jobs?

LPNs may work in operating rooms, assisting with surgeries, in clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. Another common work setting is a doctor’s office, where LPNs get patients ready for examinations, assist physicians with procedures, and administer medications and shots. Insurance companies also hire LPNs to review records and catastrophic insurance claims. Additional LPN jobs are available in the home healthcare market, where LPNs may provide private-duty nursing care for patients who cannot easily leave home. One example would be caring for a person with long-term skilled healthcare needs, such as intravenous infusions, a ventilator, or other complex biomedical machinery necessary to stay alive. For example, LPNs can provide round-the-clock nursing care when a patient is stable enough to be at home but still sick enough to need regular skilled nursing care. RNs function in supervisory/advisory roles when LPNs are providing direct patient care. Are you starting to see the difference?

Training & Money Matters

Training to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) usually takes place at a technical school and is significantly shorter than any type of RN training program, so the cost is less. However, LPNs also earn less than RNs on average and may not have as much flexibility in terms of upward job mobility.

Starting your nursing career as an LPN may be a good option if you want to explore a career in nursing through a technical school route rather than college. Getting accepted into an LPN program is often easier than getting into a RN program, too. But whichever way you go you'll learn a great deal about yourself, and about the fascinating field of nursing. This learning and self-discovery process is vital for growth - at every level in the nursing profession.

Bottom Line

LPN training can prepare you for a job that will provide an entry into the medical field with a good wage. If you decide that you like working in the field of nursing as an LPN then your LPN work experience will serve you well if you decide to pursue further education down the road.