When choosing a career, it is essential to find one that offers personal fulfillment, job security, and professional growth. For individuals passionate about helping others, a career in practical nursing can be the perfect fit. As healthcare continues to evolve and the demand for skilled professionals grows, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is an intelligent choice for those wanting to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Vancouver Career College offers a comprehensive Practical Nursing diploma program to prepare you for a successful healthcare career.
This blog will guide you through the key reasons why a career in practical nursing is a great option and how the Practical Nursing diploma at Vancouver Career College can set you on the right path.
Practical nursing, also known as licensed practical nursing (LPN), is vital to the healthcare system. LPNs provide hands-on care to patients in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and even private homes. They work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors, offering essential healthcare services such as taking vital signs, administering medications, dressing wounds, and providing personal care.
LPNs are integral healthcare team members, often serving as the frontline caregivers who build strong relationships with patients. They are responsible for monitoring patient health, reporting changes, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. LPNs also educate patients on managing their health, including medication instructions and ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
In British Columbia and across Canada, practical nurses must complete a recognized Practical Nursing program, like the one offered at Vancouver Career College, and pass the REx-PN exam to become licensed to practice.
Bonus Read: Registered Nurse vs. Practical Nurse: What's the Difference?
There are numerous reasons why practical nursing is an excellent career choice. Below are the top benefits that make it a rewarding and fulfilling profession:
Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, and nursing is one of its most in-demand professions. The aging population in Canada has created a high demand for practical nurses, ensuring job security for years to come. This demand for healthcare professionals means that LPNs will always have employment opportunities, even in economic downturns.
Practical nursing is not only a fulfilling career but also offers competitive salaries. The median wage for LPNs in BC is $31 per hour, with entry-level salaries starting at approximately $24 and experienced LPNs earning up to $33 per hour. This wage allows practical nurses to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle, and with overtime or specialized positions, LPNs can significantly increase their income. In addition to base pay, LPNs often receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, adding to the overall compensation package. *
Practical nursing is a career that brings immense personal satisfaction. LPNs can make a real difference in the lives of their patients by providing compassionate care and emotional support. Whether you are helping a patient recover after surgery or providing comfort in a palliative care setting, the ability to improve someone's health and well-being is an enriching experience. For many, the gratitude patients and their families express provides an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and purpose.
Practical nursing can serve as a steppingstone for those who wish to advance in their careers. Many LPNs pursue further education to become Registered Nurses (RNs) or Nurse Practitioners (NPs), offering higher salaries and more responsibilities. LPNs can also specialize in fields such as geriatrics, pediatrics, or palliative care, leading to career advancement and higher earning potential.
Vancouver Career College's Practical Nursing diploma program provides the foundational knowledge and skills that allow graduates to transition seamlessly to higher levels of nursing education.
One of the significant benefits of a practical nursing career is its flexibility. LPNs can work in various settings, from hospitals and clinics to schools and home healthcare. The diversity of work environments means that LPNs can find a niche that fits their personal interests and career goals.
Additionally, LPNs can often choose shifts that suit their lifestyle. Whether you prefer to work during the day, at night, or on weekends, there are plenty of options to create a work schedule that balances your professional and personal life.
Vancouver Career College's Practical Nursing diploma program provides students with the training they need to succeed in nursing. The program covers essential subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, health promotion, and nursing ethics. It also includes clinical placements that allow students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare settings.
The program lasts 75 weeks, including 475 hours of clinical placements and 180-hour preceptorship in various healthcare settings. Students will complete clinical placements under the supervision of qualified LPNs and RNs in various settings, including acute care and residential care facilities. This ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of their new careers.
A highlight of Vancouver Career College's program is its high pass rates on the REx-PN exam. In 2023, graduates from the Abbotsford campuses achieved a 92% pass rate on the REx-PN exam, reflecting the program's quality and commitment to student success.
Graduates of the program are fully prepared to take the REx-PN and begin their careers as Licensed Practical Nurses in British Columbia and across Canada. The curriculum meets the standards set by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM), ensuring that students receive top-tier education.
A career in practical nursing offers job security, competitive salaries, personal fulfillment, and growth opportunities. If you are looking for a career that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of others, practical nursing is an excellent choice. Vancouver Career College's Practical Nursing diploma program provides the training, experience, and support needed to succeed in this rewarding field. With flexible learning options, a dynamic curriculum, and strong career support, Vancouver Career College is the perfect place to start your journey.
Take the first step towards a fulfilling and secure career with Vancouver Career College's Practical Nursing diploma program today!
* https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/wages-occupation/4383/BC