Licensed Practical Nursing Classes
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So, you are thinking about becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and want to know where to start. You have come to the right place. This website has all the information on LPN courses and training to get you started on your way to a new career.
By becoming an LPN, you will be filling a worldwide need. As estimated by the US Department of Labor, by the year 2015, the nursing shortage will be nearing the one million mark and will continue to grow. This career field will put you in demand for years to come, no matter what the economic or political climates may be.
What exactly does an LPN do?
- Most are trained in general medical knowledge, allowing them to work in any healthcare field.
- They usually assist the Registered Nurses (RN) and doctors directly.
- They are trained in proper bedside manner.
- LPNs will gather and record patient’s vitals, such as weight, blood pressure, temperature and so on. Also, some collect lab samples as well.
- Some LPNs assist in the labor and delivery rooms and nurseries.
- There are many other duties LPNs perform on a daily basis depending on where they are stationed.
How long does it take to become an LPN?
Many courses only take between 9 and 12 months to complete. This is why many looking to have a career in nursing begin with this step. After successfully completing the classes and training at your local state-approved career center, vocational school or community college, the next step is taking and passing the NCLEX-PN exam to become licensed. It is that simple.
What are some typical LPN classes?
LPN classes will not be concentrated on typical subjects, such as history or geology. The classes will be focused on medical, patient care and other subjects that will educate the student in the nursing field. Many of the courses will involve hands-on training in an actual clinical setting either at the school or at a hospital.
The purpose of the LPN core classes have been designed to serve two purposes. One is to train the student to perform his or her nursing duties with the utmost confidence and ability, and two is so they gain the necessary knowledge and skills to comfortably pass the NCLEX-PN exam and begin their career.
Of course, LPN classes will vary from school to school, but there are many base courses that most LPN programs include. This is because no matter the state an LPN works in;they must possess some of the same fundamental skills for instance, clear communication, a basic understanding of medical terminology and an understanding of the human body.
The following list is an overview of some typical classes in an LPN program. Although, many may seem like difficult courses, like chemistry, keep in mind most LPN courses are hands-on and under close supervision of the instructors;therefore, there is nothing to fear.
- Contemporary Health Issues
- Medical Administrative Procedures
- Emergency Medical Technology
- English and/or Communications
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Patient Relations
- First aid
- Psychiatric Nursing
- Anatomy
- Principles of Patient Care: taking vital signs, collecting samples for lab tests, administering injections, also reading, understanding and updating patient charts
- Physiology
- Minor Surgical Procedures
- Nutrition and Diet Therapy
- Growth and Development including Maternal and Child Health Care
- Biology and Microbiology
- Introduction to Pharmacology
- Medical Terminology
What are the usual requirements to begin LPN classes?
The requirements for getting accepted into an LPN program and beginning classes are actually quite simple. A high school diploma or at least a GED is a must. Some schools or programs may have a minimum grade point average, like a 2.5 or higher to qualify. There may also be some prerequisite classes that need to be completed before the LPN classes can be taken.
Other requirements for LPN classes are the willingness to work with others and the ability to take directions accurately. LPNs will need to have the stomach to work around blood and other bodily fluids on a daily basis. Also, most programs will require the completion of all the core classes and any electives offered in the program as well as a passing score on the NCLEX-PN exam before gaining the LPN certification.
In addition, a completed application must be filled out and returned by the specified due date in order to be eligible for the current or next LPN program start date. This may seem like the easiest requirement, but it is often the most overlooked.
Is a career as an LPN right for me?
LPNs perform a needed service to society. They must possess a nurturing and sympathetic attitude. LPNs must be able to work under pressure in a high stress and emotionally charged atmosphere. They must be able to work in this environment while keeping their composure and work ethics intact. They are required to communicate clearly and accurately. Plus, they must be able to understand then execute orders from their superiors as well as accept helpful criticism without taking it personal. So, if you enjoy the benefits of hard work and helping others then, yes this is the career for you.
A career as an LPN takes hard work and dedication;however, knowing the career path you decided to follow makes a difference in people’s lives makes it all worth it for most LPNs. This is a rewarding career in more ways than just your annual salary. You will be touching people’s lives when they are the most vulnerable. LPNs are one of the first faces a patient sees when they come in seeking medical help. Your career as an LPN, although tough at times, will be gratifying.
Well, now that you have read what it takes to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, plus you know the classes required and you are still interested in more information, be sure to browse this website for further information.
Top 7 Schools That Offer LPN Classes in Los Angeles
California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA)
5151 State University Dr, Los Angeles, California 90032CBD College
5724 West 3rd Street, Third Floor, Los Angeles, California 90036Community Based Education Development (CBD)
5724 W. Third Street # 314, Los Angeles, California 90036Marian Health Careers Center
3325 Wilshire Blvd Ste 1010, Los Angeles, California 90010Mount St Mary's College (MSMC)
12001 Chalon Rd, Los Angeles, California 90049University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
405 Hilgard Ave, Los Angeles, California 90095Walter Jay MD Institute An Educational Center
1930 Wilshire Blvd Ste 700, Los Angeles, California 90057