Licensed Practical Nurse
What does a Licensed Practical Nurse do?
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) provide routine nursing care for patients. They work under the direction of registered nurses or physicians.
What might a Licensed Practical Nurse do in a workday?
Licensed practical nurses:
- take and record patients’ vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature.
- perform some diagnostic tests and treatments.
- assist patients with daily activities, such as feeding, bathing and exercising, which may involve lifting and turning patients.
- observe patients and report any reactions to treatments or medications.
- care for patients ranging from newborns to adults, from labor and delivery to postmortem.
Develop a Career as a Licensed Practical Nurse
LPNs may work in hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, private homes, nursing homes and other medical institutions.
How much salary do Licensed Practical Nurses make?
Annual Mean Wage
$41,450
How do I become a Licensed Practical Nurse?
National Association of Licensed Practical Nurses
3801 Lake Boone Trail
Suite 190
Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 779-0046
1-800-948-2511
www.nalpn.org
National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service
2071 N Bechtle Avenue
PMB 307
Springfield, OH 45504-1583
(703) 933-1003
www.napnes.org
Virginia License Practical Nurse Association
3205 Fendall Avenue
Richmond, VA 23222
(804) 321-8060
State Licensure Requirements for Licensed Practical Nurses
A license is required to practice as a licensed practical nurse in the state of Virginia. For more information on licensure, applications and forms, visit www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing.
Virginia Board of Nursing
Perimeter Center
9960 Mayland Drive
Suite 300
Henrico, VA 23233
Phone: (804) 367-4515
Email: