As the healthcare sector in Louisiana grows, licensed practical nurses (LPN) are also exposed to an increasing number of opportunities in the state. There were more than 22,000 individuals employed as LPNs in Louisiana in 2012. The Occupational Information Network (O*Net OnLine) estimated that this number would rise to 27,000 by 2022. O*Net OnLine also noted that this 19 percent employment growth rate will include jobs that open up in the market due to net replacement and growth.
Finding an Approved Practical Nursing Program
Before students enroll in LPN programs in Louisiana, they must ensure that this program has been approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing. Students can find a list of approved LPN training programs on the official website of the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners.
LPN training programs may also be accredited by a recognized nursing accreditation body such as:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Getting into an LPN Training Program
The basic admission requirement for a practical nursing program is taking either the LPN training program entry test or the Test of Essential Academic Skills.
Other requirements specific for LPN programs in Louisiana may include:
- Passing a background check that may include a drug test and a criminal record check
- Completion of prerequisite courses such as human anatomy, biology, and medical terminology
Practical Nursing Program
A practical nursing program, more commonly known as a LPN training program, is the fastest route to become a nurse. This program primarily prepares a prospective LPN to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). The curriculums of LPN programs have been structured to instill several necessary skills and qualities in students such as:
- Compassion
- Physical stamina
- Interpersonal skills
- Speaking skills
- Detail orientation
- Patience
Most students successfully complete a practical nursing program in 10 months to a year.
An LPN training program will introduce students to courses such as:
- Fundamentals of Nursing Science
- Introduction to Nursing Practices
- Physiology
- Geriatric Nursing
- Human Anatomy
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Psychology
- Medical and Surgical Nursing
- Human Nutrition
- Nursing Ethics
- Nursing and United States Law
- Perspectives of Practical Nursing
This program requires a student to attend a variety of practical sessions. In these sessions, students are given a hands-on experience of they could face in real world settings. Students are introduced to various issues that they might have to face later on in a professional capacity.
Learning Outcomes of a Practical Nursing Program
Students will learn to:
- Monitor the health of patients
- Report the patients’ health status to relevant physicians and nurses
- Provide basic patient care such as inserting catheters and changing bandages
- Keep and maintain an accurate patient health record
LPN licensure in Louisiana
After completing a practical nursing program, you must acquire a LPN license from the Louisiana State Board of Nursing by passing the NCLEX-PN examination.
Other requirements include:
- Transcripts from a state approved LPN training program
Occupational Statistics for LPNs Working in Louisiana
O*Net Online reported that LPNs who fell in the top 10 percent salary pool and are working in Louisiana earned more than $47,400 in 2013.
Continuing Your Studies
After you complete this program, you may choose to enroll in a LPN to RN program. Several colleges in Louisiana offer this fast track program.