Are you thinking about a career in nursing? You can become a licensed practical/vocational nurse by getting a Certificate of Achievement and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, or NCLEX-PN, which means you could be working as a practical/vocational nurse in a little over a year! Many practical/vocational nurses continue their education to become a registered nurse by getting an associates, bachelors or master’s degree in nursing. Starting with your practical/vocational nursing certificate can be a great way to learn more about the profession and get going in your career. Practical/Vocational nurses get to provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and health care providers, including doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and dentists. Vocational nurse duties include:
- Monitoring patients’ health
- Administering basic patient care
- Providing for basic patient comfort
- Discussing care with patients
- Reporting patients’ status and concerns to registered nurses and health care providers
- Documenting patient status in medical records
Practical/Vocational Nurses will check their patients’ blood pressure and other vital signs, change dressings, administer medications and manage tubes, drains and catheters. They might also help patients bathe and dress and assist with feeding. Practical/Vocational nurses are an important part of a patient’s health care team.
[1] http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/mobile/licensed-practical-and-licensed-vocational-nurses.htm [2] Not including breaks. [3] Carrington College prepares students to take appropriate certification and licensure exams related to their individual majors. The College does not guarantee students will successfully pass these exams or be certified or licensed as a result of completing the program. [4] carrington.edu/degrees/practical-nursing/