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How to become an LPN

By an allied health world contributing writer
Published:  March 17th, 2010

If you are truly interested in pursuing a career as a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse (the only difference is the title, both perform the same tasks), you can begin your training early and easily. Follow the steps below to earn you license and begin practicing as a licensed practical nurse in less than a year.

1. Ask yourself if you have the traits that make a successful nurse. LPNs have the most direct contact with patients so the following qualities are essential:
   • Responsible
   • Compassionate
   • Caring
   • Sympathetic
   • Observant


2. Prepare as early as high school. Some high schools offer vocational programs or co-op programs that allow you to gain some nursing experience and even earn college credits. If your high school does not offer such programs, you can still prepare by taking advanced courses in math, biology, chemistry, anatomy, and any other science, health, and nutrition courses that may be available. Looking for a job or volunteering in a medical facility, even if it is as simple as answering phones, can also provide some essential experience and learning opportunities.




3. Consider shadowing a LPN if you are in question of what the job entails. Contact local hospitals or talk to your physician to find out if such an opportunity is available for you. Job shadowing will allow you to observe a LPN as they go through a normal day of clinical practice. The hope is that the experience will increase your understanding of the nursing profession as a whole and the specific responsibilities of a LPN or LVN.

Learn more about LPN programs.


4. Research LPN education training programs. This is the next step to breaking into the nursing world. All LPNs and LVNs must complete a state board approved education program. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) is the accrediting body for LPN education programs and will be the best able to assist you in determining if the program you are considering is acceptable. Licensed practical nurse training programs are available through vocational schools, junior colleges, community colleges, hospitals, colleges and universities. Some online courses may be an option as well, but a LPN cannot complete their entire education in this way. LPN/LVN education program can typically be completed in a year. Be sure to fully examine the schools and programs you are considering.
   • Visit their website
   • Tour the facilities
   • Talk to admissions representatives
   • Interview past graduates
   • Observe a class


5. Choose a licensed practical nurse training program. Once you have chosen a LPN program, find out what needs to be done to enroll. You may need to comply with certain admission, education or experience prerequisites. Some LPN programs require some sort of pre-nursing examination or basic aptitude test prior to enrollment.




6. Complete your LPN education. The LPN training program will consist of classroom study and supervised clinical practice. Basic nursing concepts and patient care will be the primary focus of the program. Additionally, you will complete courses in the following:
   • Anatomy
   • Biology
   • Chemistry
   • Psychology
   • Physics
   • Physiology
   • Pharmacology
   • Nutrition
   • First Aid
   Introductory courses in medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric nursing, and gerontology will be covered in some programs as well.


7. Network and build relationships with physicians, nurses, and hospitals when completing clinical practice. Ask about additional learning opportunities. These relationships could prove to be beneficial when seeking a job upon completion of your degree.

Learn more about LPN salaries.


8. Study for, take and pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses). The National Council of State Boards of Nursing administers this exam. All LPNs and LVNs are required to pass this examination prior to obtaining a LPN license.


9. Submit an application to become licensed as a practical nurse or vocational nurse in your state. This is most often done through the State Board of Nursing. Requirements vary from state-to-state regarding specific application guidelines.


10. Search for entry-level LPN jobs. Hospitals, physician offices, and nursing care facilities employ the highest number of LPNs. Contact medical personal or facilities where you have previously worked, volunteered, or completed clinical practice to see if jobs are available. If you are having trouble finding a job, consider locating to a rural area, where LPN jobs are more available.




11. Congratulations! You can now enjoy being your new career as a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse.