Lpn Programs in Pennsylvania
Licensed Practical Nursing
Nursing is one of the most fulfilling and challenging professions. The United States has an increasing ageing population which requires better healthcare facilities and medical professionals. For this reason alone, despite an economic downturn, the nursing profession has a rise in demand, making nursing one of the most promising professions today. There are different types of nurses, and licensed practical nurses (LPN) are one of them. According to the United States Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for LPNs looks promising with 22% growth expected between the years 2010 and 2020. In 2010, there were more than 700,000 jobs for qualified LPNs in the country.
What Do They Do?
Licensed practical nurses work in hospitals, private homes, physicians' offices, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities under the direction of doctors and registered nurses. They provide basic nursing care like monitoring patients' health and keeping record on patients' health.
Is The Program For You?
If you have the following traits, you may have a promising career waiting for you in the healthcare industry:
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Compassion
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Stamina
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Communication skills
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Patience
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Interpersonal skills
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Detail oriented
Nurses with these traits generally make excellent licensed practical nurses.
How to Become A Licensed Practical Nurse?
LPNs are formally educated in subjects like nursing, pharmacology, and biology; and receive supervised clinical experience. Training usually takes place through a 1-year certificate program offered at community colleges and technical schools. These programs are offered both through traditional on-campus programs and online programs. If the online program is accredited, it is as acceptable as any LPN program from a campus-based school or college. The nurses must also be licensed to legally practice their profession. Prospective nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination or NCLEX-PN to practice as licensed practical nurse.
Traditional v Online
Nurses come from various socio-economic and educational backgrounds. Older as well as young apply to become LPNs. An online program can cater to such a wide variety of people who want to become a part of the healthcare work force. Furthermore, online degrees are ideal for those who are:
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Older students - who may not feel comfortable studying with students half their age.
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Students with children or those with full-time jobs who do not have time to attend a traditional school and would rather study from the comfort of their home.
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Students who cannot commute because the school they choose is far away.
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Students looking to save money may prefer online courses as some of them may be cost-effective as compared to traditional programs.
It is worth mentioning here that some requirements of the programs like laboratory work and internship cannot be done online and will have to be fulfilled at a local hospital or clinic.
Where to Enroll in PA?
LPN programs in PA are offered at many institutes. If you are a prospective licensed practical nurse, make sure that you enroll in a program which is accredited by the state of Pennsylvania or from a nursing association. Furthermore these institutes may have different enrollment criterion and fees as well.
How Much Do LPNs Earn in Pennsylvania?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, LPN income potential in Pennsylvania has shown a cyclical trend. They earned a median annual income of $42,250 in 2010, which increased to $42,880 in 2013.