How to Become a LPN

If you're interested in a fast path to a nursing career, a good choice is to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, or LPN. Training takes about a year, and is usually held at vocational centers and technical schools. There are many opportunities in nursing care facilities and home health care agencies as well as hospitals. Many nurses pursue additional education while supporting themselves by working as a LPN.

Instructions

1. Ask yourself if you have the traits of a successful nurse. LPNs have the most direct patient care of all the nursing fields. You should be responsible, compassionate and genuinely interested in helping patients if you want to be a LPN. Working as a LPN also requires emotional stability and a strong stomach.

2. Visit the website of The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) to find an accredited LPN program in your area. Choose the option "practical nursing" for program type. The NLNAC is the national accrediting body for LPN education programs, as well as all other nursing programs.

3. Check out the schools you're considering. Visit their websites, tour the facilities, and talk to the admissions representatives. Evaluate the schools based on cost, distance and your overall impression with the quality of the program.

4. Choose a school. Find out what needs to be done before you can enroll in classes. You may have to comply with certain admission requirements. For example, you may need to supply professional references, obtain a criminal record check and/or take pre-entrance examinations.

5. Pass the NCLEX-PN examination, a nursing test administered by the state.

Resources

• The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).