A LPN

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are sometimes referred to as vocational nurses. They perform patient care under the direction of Physicians and Registered Nurses (RNs).

LPNs provide basic bedside care, including:

• Taking vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration)
• Treating bedsores
• Preparing and giving injections
• Applying dressings
• Giving massages
• Applying ice packs and hot packs
• Inserting catheters

Other LPN responsibilities may include:

• Observing patients
• Reporting adverse reactions to medications or treatments
• Collecting test samples
• Feeding patients
• Recording food and liquid intake and output

LPNs may also tend to more than patients' medical needs. They help patients with bathing and dressing, keep them comfortable, and care for their emotional needs.

LPN responsibilities also increase depending on their work environment (with additional continuing education):

• LPNs working in long-term care facilities may help evaluate residents' needs, develop care plans, and supervise the care provided by nursing aides.
• LPNs working in a physician's office or clinic perform clerical duties such as scheduling appointments, keeping records, phlebotomy, EKG and basic X-ray
• When working in a private home, LPNs may prepare meals and reinforce skills of family members who perform simple nursing tasks.

Did you know?

SCC offers Cooperative Education Internships in Nursing with several local hospitals.