Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provide care to sick, injured, recovering or disabled patients and may be supervised by a registered nurse. LPNs administer prescribed medications or start intravenous fluids, noting times and amounts on patients’ charts. They also observe patients, note changes in a patients conditions and take basic vital signs like blood pressure and temperature . Providing care also may include dressing wounds, treating bedsores, sterilizing equipment and supplies.

Licensed practical nurse education and training programs offer students a way to enter the nursing career field. These programs are available in technical schools or community colleges. The courses offer foundational training for aspiring nurses. This training includes a broad overview of the education that is necessary to providing nursing services. To become a licensed practical nurse, students must complete and LPN education program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).