Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) care for the sick, injured, convalescent, and disabled under the direction of physicians and registered nurses. Most LPNs provide basic bedside care. They take vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration. They also treat pressure sores, apply dressings, and monitor catheters. LPNs observe patients and report adverse reactions to medications or treatments. They collect samples for testing, perform routine laboratory tests, feed patients, and record food and fluid intake and output. They help patients with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene, keep them comfortable, and care for their emotional needs.
In states where the law allows, including Ohio, they may administer certain allowable prescribed medicines or start intravenous fluids. Some LPNs help deliver, care for, and feed infants. Experienced LPNs may supervise nursing assistants and aides. LPNs in nursing homes provide routine bedside care, help evaluate residents needs, develop care plans, and supervise the care provided by nursing aides. In doctors offices and clinics, they also may make appointments, keep records, and perform other clerical duties. LPNs who work in private homes also may prepare meals and teach family members simple nursing tasks.
Types of Training Programs
Within the Northeast Ohio community, there are two basic types of LPN training opportunities. Both prepare you to sit for the NCLEX-PN State Licensure Exam through appropriate classroom training and clinical skill development.
The first type of programs is housed within or administered through post-secondary institutions. Cuyahoga Community College offers PN training programs. One major consideration with programs operated through the community college system, is that you may receive college credit for your participation which can count toward other advanced training and certifications. For example, once you complete the PN level of training, you may have already met many of the requirements for additional advancement training (RN). Both of the community college PN programs have articulations with other allied health programs and with other colleges and universities that would allow you to continue your training toward an additional health care certificate, an associate |
