What is a Practical Nurse?

The healthcare system in Canada relies on a wide variety of professionals, each playing a unique role in ensuring the well-being of patients. One such vital profession is that of the Practical Nurse. If you are considering a career in healthcare and wondering, "What is a Practical Nurse?" or how you can become one in British Columbia, this blog will provide all the answers. 
 

We will explore the role of a Practical Nurse, the differences between Practical Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses, and highlight the Practical Nursing Diploma offered by Vancouver Career College, a program designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in nursing. 
 

What is a Practical Nurse? 
 

A Practical Nurse is a healthcare professional who works collaboratively with doctors, Registered Nurses (RNs), and other healthcare team members to deliver essential patient care. Practical Nurses focus on providing hands-on care to patients, helping them manage their health, recover from illnesses, and improve their quality of life. 
 

Practical Nurses perform tasks such as: 
 

• Administering medications and treatments 
• Monitoring and recording vital signs 
• Assisting patients with daily living activities, such as personal hygiene 
• Reporting changes in a patient’s condition to doctors or RNs 
• Providing emotional and educational support to patients and their families 
   

Practical Nurses often work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health centers. They are known for forming close relationships with their patients, especially in settings like nursing homes, where long-term care is provided. 
 

What is a Licensed Practical Nurse? 
 

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a Practical Nurse who has met the licensing requirements to practice professionally in their province or territory. In Canada, LPNs must complete an accredited Practical Nursing program, pass the regulatory licensing exam the Regulatory Exam for Practical Nurses (REx-PN) and register with their provincial or territorial nursing regulatory body. 
 

LPNs practice under the supervision of Registered Nurses or physicians and deliver frontline healthcare services. Their practice is grounded in foundational nursing knowledge, critical thinking, and clinical judgment. While they share many responsibilities with RNs, LPNs typically focus on patients with stable or predictable health conditions. 
 

LPNs are vital members of the healthcare team and work in various settings, including hospitals, community care, schools, correctional facilities, and occupational health services. Over time, LPNs can expand their scope of practice by pursuing further education and gaining experience, enabling them to care for patients with more complex needs. 
 

What is the Difference Between a Practical Nurse and a Licensed Practical Nurse? 

The terms "Practical Nurse" and "Licensed Practical Nurse" are often used interchangeably, but there is a key distinction. A Practical Nurse is anyone trained in the principles and skills of nursing. However, to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, a Practical Nurse must: 
 

1. Complete an Accredited Program: LPNs must graduate from a recognized Practical Nursing education program that meets provincial or territorial standards. 
    
2. Pass the Licensing Exam: In British Columbia, aspiring LPNs must pass the REx-PN exam to demonstrate their competency. 
    
3. Register with a Regulatory Body: LPNs must register with the nursing regulatory body in their province or territory, such as the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) in BC. 
    

In short, all LPNs are Practical Nurses, but not all Practical Nurses are LPNs. Licensing provides legal authority to practice and ensures that LPNs meet the lofty standards of healthcare delivery in Canada. 
 

How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse in BC, Canada? 
 

If you are interested in becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in British Columbia, here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve your goal: 
 

1. Obtain a High School Diploma 

The first step is to complete high school or an equivalent qualification, such as the General Educational Development (GED) test or Adult Basic Education (ABE). Focus on courses like biology, chemistry, and mathematics, as these will provide a solid foundation for your nursing education. 
 

2. Enroll in a Practical Nursing Diploma Program 

Next, enroll in a recognized Practical Nursing program, such as the Practical Nursing Diploma offered by Vancouver Career College. This program typically takes 75 weeks to complete and combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical training. 
 

The curriculum at Vancouver Career College includes: 
 

• Anatomy and Physiology 
• Pharmacology 
• Nursing Fundamentals 
• Medical-Surgical Nursing 
• Maternal-Child Nursing 
• Health Promotion 
• Variants in Health 
   

Students also participate in 475 hours of clinical placements and a 180-hour preceptorship, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced professionals. 
 

3. Pass the REx-PN Licensing Exam 
 

After graduating, you must pass the REx-PN licensing exam. This exam tests your knowledge, clinical judgment, and readiness to provide safe and effective care as an LPN. Vancouver Career College boasts high REx-PN pass rates, with a 92% pass rate at its Abbotsford campus and 90% at its Burnaby campus in 2023. 
 

4. Register with the BCCNM 
 

Once you pass the REx-PN, you will need to register with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM). This step includes providing evidence of good character, English language proficiency, a clean criminal record, and fitness to practice nursing. 
 

5. Maintain Your License and Pursue Continuing Education 
 

To maintain your LPN license, you must fulfill continuing education requirements and renew your registration annually. This ensures that you stay updated on the latest nursing practices and healthcare regulations. 
 

Practical Nursing Diploma by Vancouver Career College 

If you are ready to take the first step toward becoming an LPN, Vancouver Career College’s Practical Nursing Diploma program is an excellent choice. Here is what makes this program stand out: 
 

Comprehensive Curriculum 

The program covers a broad range of topics, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their roles as LPNs. You will gain foundational knowledge in nursing and develop the clinical skills necessary to provide high-quality patient care. 
 

Hands-On Clinical Training 
 

The program includes extensive clinical training, with 475 hours of placements and a 180-hour preceptorship. These real-world experiences allow students to apply their knowledge in diverse healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and community care facilities. 
 

Supportive Learning Environment 
 

Vancouver Career College offers small class sizes and personalized instruction, ensuring that every student receives the attention and support they need to succeed. The program’s spiraling curriculum structure strengthens comprehension by integrating theory and practice seamlessly. 
 

High REx-PN Pass Rates 
 

Graduates of the Practical Nursing program at Vancouver Career College consistently achieve high pass rates on the REx-PN, surpassing the provincial average. This reflects the quality of education and preparation provided by the college. 
 

Program Recognition 
 

The program is recognized by the BCCNM and meets all regulatory requirements, ensuring that graduates are eligible to practice as LPNs in British Columbia and across Canada. 

Final Thoughs 

Licensed Practical Nurses are indispensable to Canada’s healthcare system, providing compassionate, hands-on care to patients in various settings. If you are passionate about making a difference in people’s lives and seeking a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming an LPN is an excellent choice. 
 

By enrolling in Vancouver Career College’s Practical Nursing Diploma program, you will receive the comprehensive education and hands-on training needed to excel in this role. With high REx-PN pass rates and a curriculum designed to prepare you for real-world challenges, Vancouver Career College is your gateway to a fulfilling career as a Licensed Practical Nurse. 
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Start your journey today and discover how you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. For more information or to apply, visit Vancouver Career College’s website and take the first step toward your dream career.