Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) perform basic nursing tasks and work with physicians and registered nurses (RN) in various medical institutions. Educational requirements include certificate or diploma programs and taking the National Council License Examination (NCLEX-PN).
According to Doyle, the average salary is $47,840, and the minimum is $34,560, which is supposed to be expected for a new grad. LPNs work in long-term care, hospitals, physician offices, home healthcare services, and government organizations.
Additional education can provide advancements for LPNs up to RN or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Employment opportunities for LPNs are expected to increase by 9% by 2029 due to the trend of population aging. Specialists in this profession need to be prepared for the challenges and hardships of nursing, but this job can be personally rewarding.