NursingSchools.com is hiring: Practical Nurse in Oregon

As a nursing career, Practical Nurse falls in the middle between the Nursing Assistant and the Registered Nurse. One way to think of practical nursing is to consider that a PN generally performs routine bedside care in contrast to a Registered Nurse who may be involved in the review, teaching, and planning of patient care. Practical Nurses play a critical role in the healthcare system often assisting Registered Nurses and doctors.

What Is a Practical Nurse?

A Practical Nurse (PN), also known as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in some regions, is a healthcare professional trained to provide basic nursing care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or doctor. They are essential members of the healthcare team, helping to manage patient care, monitor vital signs, and assist with daily living activities.

Where Does a Practical Nurse Work?

Practical Nurses can work in a variety of healthcare settings depending on their preferences and available opportunities. The most common workplaces for a Practical Nurse include:

• Hospitals: PN assist RN and doctors in acute care settings, providing basic patient care, administering medications, and monitoring patient conditions.
• Nursing Homes: In long-term care facilities, they help care for elderly or disabled patients who require ongoing care.
• Home Health Care: Some PN work in patients' homes, offering care for individuals who need medical support.
• Outpatient Clinics: Practical Nurses in clinics may work alongside doctors and nurses to assist with routine procedures and patient education.

Job Duties of a Practical Nurse

The most common job duties of a Practical Nurse include:

• Monitoring Vital Signs: Check patients' blood pressure, pulse, and temperature to ensure they are stable.
• Administering Medications: Under the supervision of an RN, the PN can give patients prescribed medications.
• Assisting with Daily Activities: Help patients with essential tasks such as bathing and dressing.
• Wound Care: Clean and dress wounds to prevent infections.
• Additional Duties: Insert catheters, monitor catheters, give enemas, injections, collect samples, and perform laboratory tests.

How To Become a Practical Nurse

Becoming a Practical Nurse involves completing the necessary education requirements and passing the required licensure exams. Follow these steps to become a Practical Nurse:

• Complete a Practical Nursing Program: Enroll in a state-approved practical nursing program that typically lasts one year.
• Gain Clinical Experience: Complete supervised clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience.
• Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam: After completing your program, pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
• Obtain State Licensure: Apply for licensure in the state where you plan to work.
• Maintain State Licensure: Most states require the PN to renew their license every two years.

Education Requirements for a Practical Nurse

To become a Practical Nurse, you need to complete a state-approved PN program, which typically lasts about one year. These programs cover essential nursing skills and clinical rotations.

How Much Does a Practical Nurse Make?

Practical Nurses earn a competitive salary, which can vary depending on location and experience. Average annual salary for a Practical Nurse:

• Entry-Level: Approximately $35,000 to $45,000 per year.
• Mid-Career: Approximately $45,000 to $55,000 per year.
• Experienced: Approximately $55,000 to $65,000 per year.

Practical Nurse Career Advancement Opportunities

Practical Nurses can advance their careers by gaining additional certifications or pursuing further education.

The Future of Practical Nursing Careers

The demand for Practical Nurses is expected to remain strong as the population ages. Practical Nursing is a rewarding and essential career in healthcare.