Licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) usually work with patients in medical and health care settings. They may also be involved in home health care practice. When a licensed vocational nurse is working in a hospital, clinic, or long term care facility, they are usually part of a team of health care providers that may be supervised by registered nurses and doctors. Licensed vocational nurses assist patients preparing for and recovering from medical treatment, but some states limit their involvement in the actual medical procedures.

A Career as a LVN

Many licensed vocational nurses start their careers as nursing assistants and attend LVN nursing schools to advance their careers. As a licensed vocational nurse, you have the opportunity to gain a lot of practical nursing experience, and many LVNs decide to continue their education by earning a bachelor's degree and becoming a registered nurse.

Education Requirements for a LVN Career

A licensed vocational nurse must pass a national licensure examination prior to working in their profession. Completing a LVN nursing program at an accredited school can help prepare you for the examination. Most LVN nursing schools require their applicants to have a high school diploma or a GED prior to starting classes

Future Job Outlook and Salary Range for the LVN Profession

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects above average job growth for the licensed vocational nursing career field. The expected expansion of up to 21 percent through 2018 is largely due to the aging population and the health care advancements that have been conducive to a longer life span. The median annual salary for a licensed vocational nurse in 2009 was $39,820, and the top 10 percent in the career field made about $55,090.


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