Should I Become an LPN / LVN?
If you’re considering pursuing a practical nursing degree or are already enrolled in a program, you’ve probably wondered about the skills you’ll acquire. There are certain tasks that a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) can perform, but it’s important to note that these skills might evolve with advancements in knowledge, technology, and available certifications. These limitations are referred to as the scope of practice, and it can differ from state to state. Since I’m licensed in Louisiana, the information I’m providing is based on Louisiana’s scope, but you can refer to LSBPNE for specific details about practical nursing in the state.
In essence, an LPN must work under the guidance of a higher-level provider, such as a licensed physician or nurse practitioner. Your duties will be based on the education and training you receive during LPN school. Graduation requirements may include passing skills tests in a lab setting using a mannequin, as well as demonstrating proficiency with real-life patients in a hospital. In my program, we were given a skills book that outlined each task we needed to complete and the required successful attempts for each. Instructors would observe and sign off on the completion of these skills.
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Examples of skills I had to complete during school include:
- Medication administration and dosing
- Intravenous therapy (certified before program completion)
- Bed baths
- Injections
- Dressing changes and wound care
- Monitoring intake and output
- Removal of sutures and staples
- Glucose tests
- Vital signs
- Foley catheters
- Head-to-toe assessments
- Bed making
For more insights into what to expect during LPN school, you can read further. There are, however, certain tasks that LPNs cannot perform within their scope of practice, including:
- hanging blood or blood products
- pushing intravenous medications, and
- conducting initial assessments.
To understand more about the distinctions between LPNs and RNs, you can explore further.
Once you begin working, your facility may provide additional training and certifications for specific skills required in your role. In my pediatric clinic, for example, we undergo training and licensure as laboratory assistants through the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. This allows us to collect and run tests on various specimens, conduct quality controls, and perform other duties essential to our office. Different facilities and specialties may have varying skill sets, beyond the basics. In our office, we need to learn how to perform hearing and vision screenings, EKGs, PFTs, and the application and removal of casts and splints. A pediatric setting might require expertise in childhood vaccines and their administration.
LPNs play a crucial role in the healthcare team, handling numerous tasks under the supervision of a provider. You’ll learn the mentioned skills and more throughout your LPN career, continuously advancing your abilities as a nurse. For any questions about the scope of practice in your state, refer to your state’s practical nursing board website. Always remember to renew licenses and certifications on time, and strive to keep your skills sharp!
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