Being a nurse is one of the most challenging yet rewarding careers that you can pursue. If you’re looking to enter nursing, a great place to start is by becoming a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). Many aspiring nurses opt for this path as it offers a shorter duration of the training and is often very cost-effective.

But what exactly does being an LVN entail, and how can you become one? Let’s dive into it.

Let’s first discuss the responsibilities of a vocational nurse. An LVN is responsible for providing nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. This can include taking vital signs, providing wound care, and administering medications. They also offer primary patient teaching and assist with treatments as directed by the physician or nurse supervising them.

In addition, LVNs may also need to document their work and provide patient progress reports to the supervising RN or physician. Most LVNs work in hospitals and long-term care facilities, but they can also be found in home health settings, physician offices, and outpatient clinics.

Just like any other type of nursing, becoming a vocational nurse requires knowledge and experience. The educational requirements vary from state to state but generally involve taking an approved program from a postsecondary institution and an approved certification exam.

The education and training required to become an LVN can range from a year of study to up to 14 months, depending on the program and type of class. There are over 90 approved vocational nursing education programs in the state of Texas that provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an LVN. Once you complete the program and pass your certification, you can apply for licensure with the state board of nursing.

The licensure exam, or the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN), is the final step in becoming an LVN. This exam tests your competency in all nursing areas and must be passed before you can become an LVN.

Once you have passed the licensure exam, you can apply for a license with your state board of nursing and look for LVN jobs.

As mentioned, LVNs can work in different settings, from medical centers to clinics and even school nurse positions. As a result, the job outlook for LVNs is expected to remain strong, and wages will vary depending on the setting you’re working in and the type of services you provide.

Most LVNs also work full-time as their services are needed frequently, making it an ideal career choice for those who want to work regular hours.

Becoming a vocational nurse is an excellent way to jump-start your career in nursing and become a valuable member of the healthcare community. With the proper education and experience, plus a community of LVNs willing to help, you can thrive in a challenging and rewarding career.