Practical nurse programs prepare students to become licensed practical nurses (LPN) or licensed vocational nurses (LVN). The graduates give patient care under the direction of a registered nurse or other licensed health professional.
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The first practical nurse program was offered in 1892 as a 3-month training program by the YWCA in Brooklyn, New York; others followed in the 1900s. Later, world wars created a demand for nurses that could be quickly trained and the number of practical nurse programs increased. In 1941, the schools formed an Association of Practical Nurse Education and began accrediting schools of practical nursing in 1945.
Educational Setting
The practical nurse program is typically offered by a trade or technical school. The program may also be sponsored by high schools, hospitals, or community colleges.
Entry Requirements
Requirements are a high school diploma or demonstrated high school equivalency. Other requirements may be stipulated by the educational institution.
Educational Base
The curriculum builds on introductory content in the biological and social sciences. These courses may carry college credit, or may be integrated into the curriculum.
Curriculum
The course of study is 12 to 18 months and includes courses with a focus on acute and chronic illness, rehabilitation, maintenance of health, and prevention of disease. Heavy emphasis is on clinical practice.
Graduates from LPN/LVN programs are prepared to give care, under the direction of a registered nurse or licensed physician, to patients whose care plan is well established, and in structured settings such as long-term care or acute care hospitals, homes, outpatient settings, or phisician`s offices.
Licensing Examination
After graduation from the LPN/LVN program the graduate is eligible to write the National for Licensure Examination-Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) examination. The LPN/LVN is licensed for employment as a practical / vocational nurse.
Accrediting Agencies and Professional Organizations
The Council on Practical Nursing of the NLN is responsible for accrediting LPN programs. Other accrediting agencies may be involved in the accreditation process for the technical school in which the practical nurse program in located. Several professional organizations such as the National Association for Practical Nurse Education and National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses are active in advocating quality education and informing the public about the role of practical nursing in nursing service.
(Grace L. Deloughery : Issues and Trends in Nursing, Mosby Year Book, St. Louis, Missouri, 1991)
