Licensed Vocational Nursing
With baby boomers retiring at a rapid rate, nursing has become a growing industry in the United States. The health care industry has an increasing demand for licensed, trained nurses for a wide range of medical facilities.
There are many different types of nurses, including a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). For those individuals interested in a health care career, becoming an LVN provides an entry into the medical industry.
What Is a Vocational Nurse?
A LVN assists doctors and nurses throughout many medical facilities. Frequently, the position is referred to as a licensed practical nurse.
However, the two terms define the same occupation. LVNs assist with a variety of services for patients, doctors, surgeons and other nurses.
Frequently, they attend to basic bedside care. An LVN may measure and record the vital signs of the patient, such as height, weight, temperature, pulse, blood oxygen levels and respiratory rate.
They prepare and deliver enemas and injections, apply dressing to wounds and monitor catheters. To minimize the patient’s discomfort, an LVN may help with bathing, dressing, hygiene, standing and walking.
Occasionally, they may assist with feeding the patient. Experienced LVNs may assume supervisory roles over nursing assistants and other aides.
In addition, LVNs collect samples for routine medical tests, execute some laboratory testing, and record dietary intake.
They maintain some medical equipment. Occasionally, they assist doctors and registered nurses with performing tests and procedures.
Some LVNs work in the delivery and post partum departments caring for and feeding newborns.
LVNs record any adverse reactions to medicines or treatments. These reports are key instruments in providing accurate health care.
In addition, they interview patients regarding their medical history and their current health status. They may utilize the data to fill out insurance requirements, obtain insurance authorizations and referrals.
The accuracy and timeliness of this information is crucial to registered nurses and doctors when determining the best course of treatment for a patient.
Employment Environment
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many LVNs work as generalists and can float between many types of health care facilities.
However, some LVNs specialize in one area such as assisted care facilities, doctor’s offices or in-home care. Some states allow LVNs to administer prescription medication, initiate intravenous delivery of fluids and drugs, and provide assistance to patients dependent upon a ventilator.
The handbook points out that approximately 18 percent of LVNs work as part-time employees.
However, the majority work a 40-hour workweek. LVNs enjoy flexible schedules and can work nights, weekends and holidays. The job has some physical requirements. An LVN may stand for much of the workday. In addition, they assist with moving patients in and out of bed.
Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, students working toward this career must complete a state approved educational program. Most of these programs take one year at which time they must take and pass a licensing exam.
The median annual salary in 2010 was $40,380. Employment of LVNs is expected to grow at least 22 percent between 2010 and 2020, making this employment sector one of the fastest growing in the United States.
