Profession Overview
Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) are known as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). LPNs in Louisiana provide basic nursing care under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs), physicians, and other healthcare professionals. They play a crucial role in the delivery of healthcare services, offering both direct patient care and administrative support.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Patient Care:
- Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding.
- Monitor and record vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate.
- Medication Administration:
- Administer prescribed medications (oral, intravenous, intramuscular, or topical) and ensure patients adhere to their medication regimen.
- Wound Care:
- Assist with cleaning and dressing wounds, applying bandages, and monitoring the healing process.
- Documentation:
- Maintain accurate and timely records of patient care, including observations, treatments, and medications administered.
- Patient Education:
- Teach patients and families about self-care, health conditions, and recovery strategies.
Typical Work Week
The typical workweek for a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) can vary depending on the employer, setting, and location. However, most LVNs generally work:
- Full-time: Usually 40 hours per week, with shifts often being 8 or 12 hours long.
- Shift work: LVNs commonly work in shifts, including day, evening, or night shifts, especially in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings that operate around the clock.
- Weekends and holidays: Some LVNs may be required to work on weekends and holidays, particularly if they are employed in healthcare facilities that provide 24-hour care, such as nursing homes, hospitals, or urgent care centers.
Education requirements
- Completion of an Accredited Practical Nursing Program:
- Program Duration: LPN programs take 12 months to complete. These programs are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and some hospitals or technical schools.
- Curriculum: The program will include subjects such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing ethics, and patient care procedures.
- Clinical Experience:
- During the LPN program, students will gain real-world clinical experience by working in healthcare environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient clinics. This clinical training helps to ensure that students develop practical skills in patient care, communication, and emergency procedures.
- NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses):
- The NCLEX-PN is a nationwide exam that tests the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective practice as an LPN.Top of FormBottom of Form
Programs in Louisiana
Approved Practical Nursing Program List
Career outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for pharmacy technicians will grow 12% through 2028
The BLS notes that on average, pharmacy technicians earn an annual salary of $32,700. Top earners can make up to $47,000 per year.