How Do I Become An LPN?

To land an entry-level position with good pay in the health care industry, you may want to consider becoming an LPN. 

Training for this popular position is available through a variety of institutions, ranging from online LPN programs to traditional nursing schools, and upon completing the required training, you will be well prepared for a successful, rewarding career in nursing.

Steps To Becoming A Practical Nurse

The process involved in learning how to become an LPN can really be broken down into four simple steps. This article gives a brief overview of these steps, and provides some basic advice on how to get started.

Sign Up For An Accredited Program

Obviously, the very first thing you'll need to do is begin the required schooling that all licensed practical nurses are expected to complete. Courses are offered at a number of vocational schools, public junior colleges and other institutions, and most offer equivalent levels of training. You will want to make sure, however, that the program you choose is fully accredited by your state's appropriate governing body.

Getting accepted into these programs generally requires the applicant to hold either a high school diploma or its equivalent. In some cases, there may also be requirements for standardized test scores or other supporting materials (particularly in the case of programs that are impacted).

Take And Pass The Licensing Exam

Once a student has successfully completed his or her training at an accredited LPN program, they should be ready to sit for the licensing test. The test, called the NCLEX-PN, is a standardized, multiple-choice examination that screens potential LPNs for their knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and a multitude of health care procedures and medical processes. The exam is given at a designated testing center, is timed, and monitored to ensure that none of the test takers use outside reference materials.

Those who register a passing score on the exam become licensed as practical nurses and eligible for employment at any number of different health care facilities.

Try To Get Hands-On Training

Although students will be required to complete a number of laboratory hours as part of their LPNtraining, it is extremely helpful to also bolster this training by serving as an intern at a local clinic or hospital. This experience will prove invaluable to both your education, and your ability to find a job upon graduation.

Getting Hired As An LPN

Of course, the last step in this whole process will be to get hired as a licensed practical nurse. Fortunately, if you've completed all of the other steps listed above, this shouldn't require too much effort. Your job hunt will additionally be aided by the fact that the national need for LPNs is skyrocketing due to the boom in the health care industry. Not a bad set of circumstances to find yourself in after only two years of study.