Licensed Practical Nurse

To be a successful Licensed Practical Nurse you should…

• be caring and respectful of patients
• be competent and accurate in your work
• have a caring, sympathetic nature
• be emotionally stable, because work with the sick and injured can be stressful
• be able to follow orders and work under close supervision
• be able to work with the health care team
• act ethically and be legally accountable for your actions

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What will my job be like?

In addition to providing basic bedside care, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may also give injections and medications. They change dressings, evaluate patient needs, implement care plans, and supervise nursing assistants. In an office setting, they may make appointments and keep patient records. In a home setting, under the supervision of physicians and/or registered nurses. LPNs instruct family members in nursing care.

Where could I work?

Most LPNs are employed by nursing homes and home care agencies. They work a 40-hour week. They may work 8-,10-, or 12-hour shifts, including rotating weekends and holidays. LPNs may work day, evening or nighttime hours as assigned.

Other workplace settings:

• Community Health Clinics
• Home Health Care Services
• Mental Health Institutions
• Physician Offices
• Private Homes
• Residential Care Facilities
• Schools
• Temporary Help Agencies

What is the average annual salary?

$48,800

What is the future of this career?

Employment of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is projected to grow 9 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations, according to the BLS.

About 60,700 openings for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

Completion of an accredited practical nursing program usually takes between 12 and 18 months. LPNs may continue education in nursing to become Registered Nurses and Advanced Practice Nurses.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Lincoln Technical Institute, New Britain/Shelton
• Porter and Chester Institute, Bridgeport/Rocky Hill/Waterbury
• Three Rivers Community College, Norwich

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is required in the state of Connecticut. Prerequisite: Connecticut requires successful completion of the Practical Nurse program. Graduates will take a computerized state Practical Nurse examination.

Please visit the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health website for more information.

Where can I get more information?