Standards of Practice for LPN

Standards of practice ensure that all LPNs receive adequate training and follow professional guidelines.

Standards of practice for licensed practical nurses have been established by professional nursing organizations to ensure that LPNs receive appropriate training and certification before employed as caregivers. Guidelines for professional conduct expected of working LPNs have also been implemented.

Training

Practice guidelines, as well as state laws, require that all LPNs graduate from an accredited nursing program that includes coursework in subjects such as anatomy, first aid, medical-surgical nursing, nutrition, obstetrics nursing, pediatrics, pharmacology and physiology. In addition, LPNs must receive clinical training and demonstrate proficiency in practical patient care, such as giving injections, taking vital signs and dressing wounds.

Certification

All LPNs are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX-PN, before they can be employed by hospitals, assisted living facilities or home health care agencies. The NCLEX-PN is a computer-based exam that tests nursing students' knowledge of health promotion and maintenance, physiological and psychosocial integrity, and safe and effective patient care environments.

Professional Conduct

Standards of practice also require that LPNs follow professional conduct guidelines at all times. LPNs are expected to treat patients with respect and compassion, maintain confidentiality regarding patients' medical care, collaborate and cooperate with physicians and fellow nursing staff, perform procedures only as outlined within their scope of practice, and adhere to nursing's code of ethics.

References

• Health Careers Center: Licensed Practical Nurse
• All Nursing Schools: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Degree and Career Overview
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
• NFLPN Practice Standards: Nursing Practice Standards for the Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse
• College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Nova Scotia: Code of Ethics/Standards of Practice
• National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service: Standards of Practice