Become An LPN In 5 Easy Steps
Posted On December 12,2018
Becoming a licensed practical nurse is a great entry point into the world of nursing and a fantastic job in its own right. LPNs are in high demand, there is plenty of room for advancement down the road, and best of all you get the satisfaction of helping those in need. But how exactly does one become an LPN? The process isn’t as involved as you might think — you don’t need to commit to years of schooling or an expensive degree. Here’s how you can become an LPN in 5 easy steps.
1. Enroll In An LPN Program
The very first step should be finding the right program. Different programs will have different ways of doing things and some will be a better fit than others. The basic things you want to look for are small class sizes, a caring faculty, and flexible scheduling options if you’re currently working and taking care of a family.
Once you’ve found the program that’s right for you, it’s time to enroll. The requirements for enrolling in most LPN programs are simple. They include:
- Completing an application
- Passing a basic admissions test
- Submitting your high school or GED transcripts
- Providing a valid government ID
- Passing a physical
The exact requirements will vary from program to program but this should give you a good idea of what to expect.
2. Make It Through The Program
Your program is designed to equip you with all of the knowledge you need to be a successful LPN. In short, this won’t be a walk in the park. With the right study habits and a healthy amount of dedication, you can ace your program and move onto the next step: taking the board examinations.
3. Take The NCLEX-PN
Now that you’ve passed all your classes, it’s time to become licensed. The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) will test all of the knowledge you’ve gained over the course of your program. You’ll need to be able to recall important facts, perform some basic medical procedures correctly, and apply your knowledge in practical scenarios. This may sound like a lot, but if you’ve done well in your program you’ll do just fine. Now it’s time to find a job.
4. Find A Job
Now that you’re officially licensed, it’s time to start looking for your dream job. As an LPN there are many places you can choose to work. Where you go just depends on what you enjoy about being a nurse. Like getting to know each individual patient personally? You can work in home care and develop these relationships. Want to work in fast-paced, challenging environment? LPNs are highly demanded in hospitals.
5. Plan Your Future
Your journey doesn’t end when you find a job. In fact, it’s only just beginning. LPN is a great career with many opportunities for advancement. From here you can move into a number of fields including:
- Geriatric care
- Hospice work
- Hospital administration
Want to continue what you’re doing but with more responsibilities and higher pay? Become an RN. The sky is the limit as an LPN. Some even fall in love with medicine and choose to further their education and get their masters or doctorate of nursing.
If you’re ready to start your career as a nurse please don’t hesitate to contact us at Athena Career Academy. We make a commitment to guide our students every step of the way, from the day they enroll until the day they find a job and start their new careers in medicine.