Nursing Degree Guide

Just as any other health care worker, an LPN degree, or licensed practical nurse degree, when completed, helps assist in the care of the sick and infirm. In the current times of nursing shortages and low nursing school enrollment, the work of a nurse has become crucial to maintaining high standards of patient care. Note that in California and Texas, an LPN is actually referred to as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). Working under the supervision of a doctor or registered nurse, an LPN is able to provide many various patient services:

• Answering patient calls
• Taking and monitoring of vital signs
• Application of dressings
• Administration of ice packs, alcohol rubs, and hot water bottles
• Treatment and prevention of bedsores
• Feeding of patients
• Maintaining proper medical record documentation

Other responsibilities include the observance of any medication reactions as well as the drawing of blood for testing. This is beyond the basic skills of a certified nursing assistant, or CNA. LPNs are also trained in the preparation of patients for more rigorous testing procedures. LPNs can set up procedure rooms with the proper equipment as well as be responsible for oxygen machines, catheters, and other medical supply ordering and maintenance. There are some states that will allow LPNs to administer medications as well as set up IVs (intravenous medications). LPNs can care for a wide range of patients from infants and newborns to the elderly population. In some cases, LPNs are experienced enough to supervise lesser trained assistants. Several factors go into the eventual certification to be an LPN. First of all, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent and then enroll in a two-year practical nursing program. Many community colleges offer this training, but some high schools are also allowing for this to be a part of a degree program. When this course is completed and some work experience is gained through the training, the student may then sit for a national exam, the NCLEX-PN, as well as state licensing exam. Good communication skills are necessary, as well as the ability to work under the supervision of a doctor or registered nurse. With time and experience, these wages will increase as well. Employers can range from private office settings to hospitals, home health care settings, and personal care companies. Interested in becoming an LPN? Find your nursing degree here:

LPN Online Degree Programs

	The College Network – LPN Degree. The College Network offers students the opportunity to become a licensed practical nurse. This degree will let students do more with their degree than a nursing assistant’s degree would. Students will be prepared for a high growth career in a fast growing industry.
	Kaplan University – Various Nursing Degrees. Kaplan University allows students interested in obtaining an LPN Degree to pursue a variety of nursing degrees that will allow the student to get their LPN Degree down the road. Kaplan is an accredited and affordable online university.
	University of Phoenix – Various Nursing Degrees. University of Phoenix offers accredited online nursing degrees that will create a stepping stone for students interested in getting a healthcare Degree. University of Phoenix has campus classes and online classes for students needing either type of educational experience.