The healthcare system is a vast network of professionals working together to ensure the well-being of patients. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are among these professionals, and they play an essential role in delivering high-quality care. For those considering a healthcare career, understanding what an LPN is and what they do can provide valuable insight into whether this path aligns with your career goals.
This article explores what a Licensed Practical Nurse is, detailing their duties, responsibilities, and educational pathways. For those interested in pursuing this rewarding profession, Vancouver Career College offers a comprehensive Practical Nursing Diploma program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who provides hands-on care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. LPNs are integral healthcare team members, offering essential services that help patients manage their health, recover from surgeries or illnesses, and maintain an excellent quality of life.
LPNs are known for their versatility and ability to work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and private homes. Their role is crucial, as they often serve as the first point of contact for patients and families, helping to bridge communication between patients and other healthcare providers.
To become an LPN, individuals must complete a recognized Practical Nursing program and pass the REx-PN (Registered Nurse Exam for Practical Nurses) in British Columbia. This ensures that LPNs meet national competency standards and are fully prepared to practice safely and effectively.
A Licensed Practical Nurse's duties vary and depend on the healthcare setting in which they work. LPNs provide direct care to patients, helping them with daily living activities and performing basic medical procedures. Here are some of the critical responsibilities of an LPN:
LPNs are trained to administer medications to patients, following specific guidelines and under the supervision of an RN or physician. They may also monitor the patient for adverse reactions and report these to the healthcare team.
One of the primary roles of an LPN is to monitor patients' vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate. These metrics provide crucial information about a patient's health status, allowing the healthcare team to make informed treatment decisions.
LPNs are often responsible for wound care, including cleaning wounds, changing dressings, and applying topical medications. Proper wound care is essential to prevent infection and promote healing.
LPNs help patients with tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, and using the restroom, particularly for those with limited mobility or recovering from surgeries or illnesses. This aspect of care is crucial for maintaining the patient's dignity and comfort.
Accurate record-keeping is an essential part of an LPN's job. LPNs are responsible for documenting patient information, including their condition, treatments, and any changes in their health status. The entire healthcare team uses this information to ensure continuity of care.
LPNs often form close relationships with their patients, providing not only physical care but also emotional support. They offer comfort to patients and their families, helping them cope with the stress and challenges of illness or injury.
LPNs educate patients and their families about managing health conditions, proper nutrition, and self-care practices. This education helps patients maintain their health and avoid complications after they leave the healthcare facility.
LPNs collaborate with RNs, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to patients. They assist in surgeries, perform diagnostic tests, and ensure the healthcare environment is safe and efficient.
The scope of practice for LPNs can vary by province or territory, but they are responsible for providing essential care that supports the broader healthcare team. Their hands-on role in patient care makes them indispensable in various healthcare settings.
For individuals interested in choosing a career in practical nursing, Vancouver Career College offers a robust Practical Nursing Diploma program designed to prepare students for a rewarding healthcare career. This program covers the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel as an LPN, with a strong focus on hands-on training through clinical placements.
The curriculum at Vancouver Career College is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in practical nursing. Key subjects covered in the program include:
The curriculum follows a "spiralling" structure, meaning students progressively build on their knowledge and skills. This method reinforces learning by allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings early in their education.
One of the highlights of Vancouver Career College's Practical Nursing program is the opportunity for students to participate in clinical placements. These placements provide real-world experience in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and community care facilities. Under the supervision of qualified LPNs and RNs, students apply what they have learned in the classroom to actual patient care, preparing them for the challenges they will face in their careers.
Students complete 475 hours of clinical placements and a 180-hour preceptorship, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the responsibilities of an LPN. These experiences help students develop technical skills and the interpersonal and communication skills necessary for providing patient-centered care.
Vancouver Career College's practical nursing program graduates are well-prepared to take the REx-PN exam, which is required for practicing as an LPN in British Columbia and other provinces. The college has a strong record of success, with a 92% pass rate on the REx-PN in 2023, surpassing the provincial average.
This high pass rate reflects the quality of education and support the college provides. Students receive personalized attention from instructors and benefit from a learning environment emphasizing academic and practical excellence.
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are vital to the healthcare system, providing hands-on care that helps patients recover, manage their health, and maintain a high quality of life. Their responsibilities range from administering medications and monitoring vital signs to offering emotional support and educating patients. For those considering a career as an LPN, the role provides both personal fulfillment and job security, with a growing demand for healthcare professionals in Canada.
Vancouver Career College's Practical Nursing Diploma program is an excellent choice for individuals who want to pursue this rewarding career. With a comprehensive curriculum, hands-on clinical placements, and a high REx-PN pass rate, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
If you are passionate about helping others and looking for a healthcare career that offers variety, flexibility, and opportunities for growth, becoming an LPN may be the perfect fit for you. Vancouver Career College is here to help you take the first step toward a fulfilling career in practical nursing.
Enroll in Vancouver Career College's Practical Nursing Diploma program today and begin your journey toward becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse!