Program Description

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) provide care for the physically or mentally ill person according to state law and under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, physician, or dentist. They are concerned with patient care and perform nursing functions in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and in the community.

An LPN assists with the rehabilitation of the patient and family according to the patient care plan and also teachers the maintenance of health and the prevention of disease. In the tenth grade, students receive an orientation to nursing and learn about professional relationships. They also study anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing, math, nutrition, microbiology, and nursing procedures.

The majority of the eleventh grade is devoted to medical-surgical nursing including a clinical practicum. Students also study psychiatric nursing. In the twelfth grade, students continue their study of medical-surgical nursing and also learn obstetrical and pediatric nursing. A clinical practicum is included in the twelfth grade program as well.

Licensed practical nurses work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, physician's offices, and the armed services. Some LPN's work for private home agencies and in mental health facilities. Good earnings, excellent employment opportunities, and the opportunity to work with and help people make this an attractive and satisfying career choice.