Practical Nursing (C.C.) (5657)

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a valued member of the health care team. Your relationship with clients is one-on-one and requires compassion as well as competence when people are in emotional and physical distress. You will make good use of strong observational, decision-making, and communication skills. If you choose a healthcare setting, you will work closely with the registered nurses, physicians, emergency medical technicians, and other allied health professionals. In nursing homes, you help collect data on patients, develop care plans, and supervise nursing assistants. In private medical offices, you may also schedule appointments, keep records, and perform other clerical duties. LPNs who choose home care may perform fundamental nursing skills and procedures, prepare meals, and teach family members simple nursing tasks.

By 2020, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a shortfall of 182,900 qualified Licensed Practical Nurses. The need for licensed practical nurses is also critical because of long-term care for an aging population as well as the general growth of health care services.

Upon completion of this program, graduates must successfully complete and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN) to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. The annual pass rate of first time takers on the NCLEX-PN can be found on the Florida Board of Nursing website.

If you are considering employment in a state other than Florida, click here to ensure the program curriculum meets the requirements to sit for licensure or certification testing in that state.