11 Fun Facts About Licensed Practical Nurses
Whether you’re working with critically ill patients in a hospital, assisting residents of nursing homes with activities of daily living, or bringing care directly to patients’ homes, being a licensed practical nurse (LPN) provides endless opportunities to grow, connect, and make an impact. If you’re looking for a job that offers a mix of fast-paced care, heartwarming patient interactions, and a strong sense of teamwork, this career path may be a great fit. Check out these top fun facts about licensed practical nurses.
Fun Facts About Licensed Practical Nurses: Insightful Stats
Before jumping in, let’s explore some LPN statistics — because numbers can speak as loud as words.
- Job growth: LPN employment is expected to grow by 3% over the next decade.
- Salary: The average LPN earns $59,730 annually.
- Age: The average LPN is 43 years old.
- Demographics: Of the more than 679,000 LPNs, 87.9% are women and 12.1% are men.
- Hours: Many LPNs work 12-hour shifts, enjoying a 3-day workweek with 4 days off.
- Employment: Most LPNs work in nursing and residential care facilities.
- Top-paying field: Government-employed LPNs tend to earn higher salaries, averaging $63,340 annually.
11 of the Top Fun Facts About Licensed Practical Nurses
LPNs have some fascinating and unique qualities that set them apart. Here are some fun facts about licensed practical nurses that showcase the rewarding nature of this career path.
1. LPNs Are Called LVNs in Some States
LPNs are called licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in California and Texas, but the role is essentially the same.
2. They Enjoy Quick Entry Into the Healthcare Field
Becoming an LPN is an efficient way to jump-start a rewarding career in healthcare. Unlike many other medical professions that require years of schooling, LPN programs typically take just 12 months to complete. After finishing the program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam, you’ll be ready to step into the workforce.
3. LPNs Work in a Variety of Settings and Specialties
LPNs aren’t confined to hospitals — they work in a diverse range of environments. These include nursing homes, home care centers, specialty clinics, and even schools. This variety allows LPNs to choose to work in healthcare settings that align with their interests and skills.
Here are some common nursing specialties you can choose to work in as an LPN:
- Geriatric nursing
- Home health care
- Hospice care
- Long-term care
- Mental health nursing
- Palliative care
- Pediatric nursing
- Rehabilitation nursing
- Substance abuse
4. They Are Known for Strong People Skills
One of the most rewarding aspects of being an LPN is the direct interaction with patients. From monitoring vital signs to assisting with daily activities, LPNs work to foster meaningful relationships, making the role both fulfilling and impactful. As a result, LPNs often excel in soft skills like active listening and providing emotional support.
Here are some key soft skills LPNs may possess:
- Compassion
- Empathy
- Time management
- Creative problem-solving
- Critical thinking
5. LPNs Can Work as Travel Nurses
For those with a sense of adventure, becoming a travel nurse offers a chance to travel with purpose — working at facilities across the country that need a staffing boost. Travel LPNs take short-term assignments in different locations, ranging from hospitals to nursing homes. It’s a rewarding way to expand your horizons, both personally and professionally, while earning a competitive income. You may even work as an international travel nurse, bringing your expertise to healthcare systems around the globe.
6. The LPN Profession Is Worldwide
LPNs play a crucial role globally, though they may have different titles and responsibilities depending on the country. In Australia and New Zealand, they’re known as enrolled nurses (ENs), while in some parts of Canada, they’re referred to as registered practical nurses (RPNs).
7. LPNs Are the Backbone of Long-Term Care
Want more fun facts about licensed practical nurses? LPNs are the heart of long-term care, working in places like skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, and rehabilitation centers. In fact, 35% of LPNs work in these environments, providing compassionate care for patients who need ongoing assistance.
8. They Have Opportunities to Advance Their Careers
LPNs can choose to further their education and become registered nurses (RNs) or nurse practitioners (NPs). This is often accomplished through nursing bridge programs, like LPN-to-RN or LPN-to-BSN, which allow students flexibility to continue working while pursuing their education.
LPNs can also take on leadership roles, precepting students, mentoring new staff members, and supervising nursing assistants. You can also boost your LPN career by getting certified. Here are some professional certifications available for LPNs:
- Venous Access – Board Certified (VA-BC)
- Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI)
- National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS)
- Wound Care Certified (WCC)
- Certified Hospice and Palliative Licensed Nurse (CHPLN)
- Certified Dialysis – Licensed Practical Nurse (CD-LPN)
9. LPNs Enjoy Job Stability and Security
The aging population, along with an increasing number of people with chronic health conditions, has created a growing demand for healthcare services. As a result, the need for skilled healthcare professionals, including LPNs, remains steady. This means that LPNs often enjoy job stability that’s hard to find in many other industries.
10. They Enjoy a Competitive Salary
The average LPN salary in the U.S. is $60,790 per year or $29.23 per hour. This impressive pay puts LPNs among the top 20 highest-paying jobs that don’t require a degree. In some states, these professionals earn even more. Here are the top five states where LPNs are paid the most:
Curious about what you might earn in your area? Explore the latest LPN jobs on IntelyCare.
11. LPNs Can Have Flexible Work Schedules
LPNs enjoy a variety of work schedule options, including evenings, weekends, or even overnight shifts, offering flexibility for those seeking nontraditional work hours. Whether you’re pursuing education, managing family life, or starting a business, this adaptability makes it easier to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Want to Find Your Next Nursing Job?
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