How long does lvn take

A typical LVN program takes one year to complete, but some programs may be as short as seven months or as long as 24 months. LVN programs can help students gain nursing knowledge quickly, so they may be a good option for those looking to gain nursing skills within a short time frame.

Some institutions that offer LVN programs include trade schools, vocational schools, community colleges and some hospitals. A typical LVN program includes coursework in:. All states require practicing nurses to gain licensure by passing the NCLEX-PN, which shows that you have the knowledge to work as a vocational nurse. Related: Complete Guide to the Nursing Qualifications.

However, the average salary may vary by your level of experience and the setting in which you work. For example, an LVN who works in a hospital setting may earn more on average than one who works in home healthcare services. The work environment of an LVN can vary based on the type of healthcare facility in which they work. Here are some common work settings for LVNs:. LVNs employed at hospitals often care for a diverse range of acutely ill or injured patients. Hospital settings can be fast-paced, particularly in departments such as the emergency room or intensive care unit.

In a hospital setting, an LVN may work under a supervising registered nurse or another medical professional. The specific duties LVNs perform can depend on their department. Many hospitals schedule LVNs to work hour shifts and may schedule them to work some weekends.

Nursing homes often provide long-term care for patients. Unlike LVNs working in hospitals where patients stay for short periods of time, LVNs working in nursing homes may develop personal relationships with their patients.

Nursing homes may not be as fast-paced as hospital settings, and LVNs may have more responsibilities regarding decision-making for patient care. A typical nursing home shift lasts eight to 12 hours and may require LVNs to work some weekends. Patients in a rehabilitation facility may have short or mid-length stays, which gives LVNs working in these facilities an opportunity to build relationships with them.

In this role, LVNs and RNs often collaborate with physical, occupational and speech therapists to help patients reach their clinical goals for recovery or improved functionality. The typical shift length may depend on the facility. A rehabilitation unit in a hospital may require LVNs to work hour shifts, while a private clinic may schedule eight-hour shifts.

Some LVNs work in private residences as home healthcare practitioners. In these settings, LVNs typically work with patients who have disabilities or critical illnesses. They may implement treatments, administer medications, educate patients and caregivers and ensure that patients follow their treatment plans at home. A typical shift for an LVN depends on the needs of the patient.

For example, a home care LVN may spend many hours with a patient every day to meet their care needs while their primary caregiver goes to work. Many LPNs and LVNs work in their field for one or two years, and then eventually return to earn their bachelor's degree. Patient care, teamwork, and communication and organizational skills. Responsibilities include conducting general assessments or therapies, managing patient data, and performing treatment approved by physicians.

Other duties include maintaining patient data and coordinating with RNs or clinical management. Physicians' Offices Physicians' offices often hire LPNs and LVNs to document patients' medical histories, collect vital signs, change bandages, and set casts.

Other tasks include administering immunizations or providing physician support during pelvic exams. State-approved LPN and LVN programs are typically offered through technical schools and community colleges, though some hospitals and high schools also offer training.

Applicants are usually required to have either a high school diploma or GED certificate. Some programs may require that applicants take the TEAS exam.

Coursework covers the fundamentals of nursing and human anatomy, and clinical requirements can be completed at healthcare settings like hospitals and nursing homes. Candidates typically wait around six weeks to receive their score. Upon passing, they are eligible to apply for licensure and begin working. Featured Online Programs. Fundamentals of nursing Anatomy of the human body. The United States is on the brink of a severe nursing shortage. There is no better time than the present to start a rewarding career in the health care industry.

If you are looking to get your foot in the door of the health care field, studying to become a licensed vocational nurse LVN might just be the perfect fit for you. But hold on, wait, what exactly is a licensed vocational nurse? To help you figure out if studying to become a licensed vocational nurse is the right move, below are a few positives and three not-as-positives to consider before enrolling in an LVN program. Licensed vocational nurses work under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses in a variety of different medical settings.

Some of the common tasks licensed vocational nurses execute include the following:. The responsibilities of an LVN are not as extensive as those of a registered nurse RN , as RNs are able to administer medicine and perform a wider array of jobs.

It is worth noting, however, that your role as an LVN may vary greatly depending on the state in which you are employed and the medical establishment for whom you work. But, the tasks still play a vital role in the overall care of patients. In studying to be an LVN, you will be able to complete your education and prepare for a career in a shorter period of time. Most LVN programs can be completed in 12 and 20 months, whereas other nursing education programs can take more than twice that time to finish.

RNs for example, are allowed to administer medications, vaccines and other pharmaceuticals, whereas LVNs are not permitted to do so, save for some rare exceptions.