Nursing can be a highly rewarding occupation for caring people who want the job satisfaction of knowing that the work they do makes a difference. However, many people might assume that the nursing field is closed off to them because they don’t have the time or resources to get the necessary education. But good news! Becoming a practical nurse offers a way to join the nursing profession at an entry level much quicker than you might think. In fact, with help from IMBC, you can be ready to start working as a practical nurse in just a year and a half. Keep reading to find out more.
“Nurse” is a general term, and in the modern healthcare system, the nursing field includes a range of different types of professionals with varying levels of training and responsibilities.
An LPN (licensed practical nurse) focuses on patients’ fundamental day-to-day and hour-by-hour care and comfort. They monitor the patient’s condition, update medical records, and report any changes in the patient’s status to the rest of the healthcare team. When necessary, they assist patients with basic needs like eating, dressing, and bathing.
More than most healthcare professionals, a practical nurse is likely to be the main point of contact for patients—the “face” of the healthcare team.
Compared to some other professions within the nursing field, practical nursing has highly attainable educational requirements.
To start training to be a practical nurse, all you need is a high school diploma or GED. Then you can get specialized practical nursing training through a program like the one offered by the Institute of Medical and Business Careers (IMBC). This Associate in Specialized Technology (AST) program is offered in a blended format, which means that it’s a mix of online learning and on-campus instruction. As part of the program, you’ll participate in clinical internships which allow you to get hands-on practice in a real healthcare setting under the supervision of experienced instructors and working professionals.
When you finish your training at IMBC, you’ll be thoroughly prepared to take the NCLEX-PN, a standardized exam that proves you have the skills and knowledge to become a Licensed Practical Nurse.
The healthcare industry is steadily expanding, and that expansion is probably going to continue for the foreseeable future due to an ageing population requiring more care.
Like most other roles within healthcare, there is growing demand for practical nurses. The federal government’s Bureau of Labor Statistics projects over 54,000 new job openings for LPNs through the year 2034. The demand for more practical nurses not only from hospitals, but also from nursing and residential care facilities, doctor’s offices, and companies that provide in-home care to the elderly or those with disabilities.
For working practical nurses who want to advance in their careers, one of the most popular options is an LPN-to-RN bridge program. Typically lasting 1-2 years, these programs prepare you to become a Registered Nurse (RN) with more care competencies and higher earning potential. LPNs can also pursue specialty certifications that can give them an advantage in the job market.
Have you been dreaming of starting a career in nursing? Take the next step at IMBC. In only 18 months, you can be ready to pursue one of the growing numbers of job openings for LPNs. Apply today or contact us to learn more!
How long does it take to become a practical nurse?
With the right training program, you can become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in about 18 months, followed by passing the NCLEX-PN licensing exam.
What does a practical nurse do?
Practical nurses provide direct patient care by monitoring patient health, assisting with daily activities, updating medical records, and communicating patient needs to the healthcare team.
What career opportunities are available for LPNs?
LPNs can work in hospitals, nursing homes, physician offices, and home healthcare, with opportunities to advance through specialty certifications or LPN-to-RN bridge programs.
