Practical Nurse

Updated: 29 February 2024

What Does Practical Nurse Mean?

A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a medical professional whose job is to prove care for those who are sick, injured, incapacitated or disabled. Practical nurses work under the direction and guidance of registered nurses or physicians.

Insuranceopedia Explains Practical Nurse

Practical nurses care for multiple patients with common healthcare needs in various medical settings. Their professional responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

  • Assessment
  • Care planning and implementation
  • Patient education
  • Order verification
  • Administering vaccines, medication, hydration, and blood products
  • Performing Board-specified medical aesthetic procedures

Generally, two years of professional training are required for a person to become a practical nurse. All LPNs must pass a standardized national licensing exam before receiving their qualifications and abide by criteria for LPN licensure through the Board of Registration in Nursing.

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