Pennsylvania LPN School
Licensed Practical Nurse Schools in Pennsylvania
The educational path for becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is the same in Pennsylvania as in most other states. LPNs are required to pass a licensing examination, known as the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses). This exam is administered and developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. Prior to taking this exam, a state-approved practical nursing program must be completed and an application for licensure submitted. The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing can assist you in determining what academic programs have been state-approved.
Pennsylvania has many educational options for potential LPNs. Most programs offered by Pennsylvania LPN schools are available through technical and vocational schools, community and junior colleges, as well as online schools. High schools, hospitals, colleges, and universities also offer such programs. A high school diploma equivalent is usually required for entry into all LPN training programs. A handful of training programs that are part of high school curriculums will accept candidates without a diploma. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) is the national accrediting body for LPN/LVN educational training programs.
LPN education programs can typically be completed in one year. Classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice (patient care) will be the primary focus a LPN education. Hands-on clinical experience is primarily completed in a hospital. Content covered will include basic nursing concepts and patient care, with additional courses in the following
- Anatomy
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physiology
- Psychology
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics Nursing
- Pharmacology
- Nutrition
- First Aid
- Child Growth and Development
- Physical Education
Upon completion of a state approved LPN education program you will be issued a LPN certificate, an associate’s degree, or both depending on the type of educational program you pursued. Licensed practical nurses are not required to have a degree in Pennsylvania.
Continuing Education and Advancement for Licensed Practical Nurses in Pennsylvania
Currently the state of Pennsylvania has no required continuing education for licensed practical nurses. Once they are licensed and receive a LPN certificate from the state, it is good for life. While the state does not have any continuing education requirements, some employers might.
The best way for LPNs to advance in the medical field is continue their education by enrolling in a LPN to RN education program. Such programs take 18-36 months to complete. They allow LPNs to continue working and gaining experience, while at the same time working towards becoming a registered nurse. Coursework will be an expanded version of a LPN training program.
Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown and Erie, Pennsylvania may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including the Albert Einstein Medical Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Saint Luke's Hospitals and Temple University Hospital.