The LPN Job Description You Need To Know
As a potential new nurse, you’re probably wondering what your job as an LPN programs graduate is going to consist of. In this article, we’ll examine the more common job functions of a licensed practical nurse and how they will apply to you.
Unlike a registered nurse, an LPN can be trained and on “the job” in less than a year. That means more of a fast track into the medical profession for you and a plotting of your career course. Perhaps you want to progress on to RN and BSM status in the future; perhaps you don’t. Either way, becoming an LPN is a positive step toward purpose and achievement.
- One-to-one Patient Care: A an LPN, your duties are going to revolve around patient care – namely the patients you are assigned by a process of delegation. Some of the patients you will take care of in a residential setting, some in a hospital setting. Depending on the needs of the patient you might be working independently or under the direct supervision of a doctor or registered nurse.
- First Aid: One of the many perks of LPN programs is that they teach you first aid – undoubtedly one of the most handy resources at your disposal in an urgent situation. With your new-found skills, you will without question make a difference in the lives of others through wound dressing, CPR and other emergency care measures.
- Administering drugs as delegated: LPN programs graduates are allowed in most states to administer IV drugs (see your state’s specific guidelines) if they are given instruction to do so by a qualified delegator like an RN or a doctor. However, as an LPN you may not make decisions on specific drugs if there are no protocols in place. Delegators are usually held responsible for the actions of their delegates.
- Maintaining a standard of hygiene: As an LPN, you will be required to keep a standard of hygiene for your patients as well as yourself. Since cleanliness can prevent a huge number of diseases and certainly hasten the healing of wounds and other ailments, it is supremely important to ensure that germs don’t gain a foothold in your professional life.
As a licensed practical nurse, your career is likely to be really diverse and interesting. LPNs are employed in almost any setting you can think of including a clerical one, so there is likely to be a significant job market out there for the perusal of any graduate of the numerous LPN programs available today.
