How to Be Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 26, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increasing need for healthcare professionals has caused a surge in demand for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). LVNs provide essential medical support by administering medications and treatments, taking vital signs, providing basic patient care, and communicating with physicians and other healthcare personnel. This increased demand has resulted in a higher salary for LVNs, as well as more job opportunities.

Furthermore, LVNs are able to pursue further education to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and progress in their career, leading to even higher salaries. With the growing demand for healthcare professionals, LVNs are in a prime position to advance their careers and increase their earning potential.

Steps How to Become

Research the LVN Licensing Requirements in the State. Each state has its own specific requirements for obtaining a license to practice as an LVN. The requirements vary from state to state, so it is important for individuals to research the requirements for their particular state before embarking on the process of becoming an LVN.
Complete an Approved Vocational Nursing Program. In order to become an LVN, individuals must complete an approved vocational nursing program. These programs are typically offered at technical or community colleges and take one to two years to complete. Programs cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and medical terminology.
Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). Upon completion of an approved program, individuals must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) in order to become licensed. This exam is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and tests individuals on their knowledge of nursing practice and theory.
Submit an Application for Licensure and Supporting Documentation. Once individuals have passed the NCLEX-PN, they must then submit an application for licensure and supporting documentation to their state board of nursing. Typically, this includes proof of completion of an approved program, passing score on the NCLEX-PN, and proof of identity and legal presence in the United States.
Pay Any Necessary Fees. Many states require that individuals pay a fee in order to become licensed as an LVN. The amount of the fee varies from state to state.
Complete Continuing Education Requirements. Most states require that LVNs complete continuing education requirements in order to maintain their licensure. The amount and type of continuing education required varies from state to state.

Being a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) requires reliable and capable skills. To ensure that these skills are developed and maintained, LVNs must have a thorough understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical treatments. they must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients and other healthcare professionals.

Furthermore, they must be well-versed in the legal regulations and ethical standards of the profession, as well as maintain up-to-date licenses and certifications. To remain reliable and capable, LVNs must also be highly organized and self-motivated to keep up with the ever-changing medical field. With these qualifications, LVNs can be trusted to provide safe and effective patient care.

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Job Description

Administer medications and treatments to patients as prescribed by a physician.
Observe patients, record vital signs and report changes to the registered nurse or physician.
Assist with patient examinations, treatments, and procedures as directed.
Participate in patient teaching, including health maintenance and self-care skills.
Collect specimens and perform routine laboratory tests.
Monitor patient progress and document care provided.
Perform basic patient care duties such as bathing, grooming, and vital signs collection.
Administer intravenous therapy, including blood transfusions.
Supervise nursing assistants in providing direct patient care.
Maintain a clean and safe environment for patients, families, and other healthcare personnel.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of infection control protocols and sterile techniques
Ability to perform basic nursing care and administer prescribed medications
Ability to assess patient health status, monitor vital signs, and document findings
Understanding of anatomy and physiology
Knowledge of medical terminology
Ability to recognize changes in patient conditions and take appropriate action
Ability to follow directions and work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals
Ability to provide education and emotional support to patients and families
Knowledge of legal and ethical standards of nursing practice
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

Becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) requires a variety of skills to be successful. Chief among them is the ability to think critically, as LVNs need to be able to assess the needs of their patients and make sound decisions. They must also have excellent communication skills to effectively communicate with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.

strong organizational and problem-solving skills are essential for LVNs to manage the paperwork, treatments, and medications associated with patient care. Finally, being compassionate and empathetic is key, as LVNs must be able to connect with their patients on a personal level and provide comfort in potentially difficult situations. When these skills are combined, LVNs are able to provide a high level of care that contributes to better health outcomes for their patients.

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Frequent Interview Questions

Tell me about your experience in providing direct patient care.
Describe a situation in which you had to provide care for an uncooperative patient.
What challenges have you faced as an LVN and how did you overcome them?
What strategies do you use to stay organized and prioritize tasks?
How do you ensure that a patient's medication and treatment regimen is properly followed?
What safety protocols do you follow when providing care to patients?
What experience do you have with electronic medical records systems?
How do you handle difficult conversations with patients or family members?
Describe a situation where you had to use your problem-solving skills to provide patient care.
What have you done to stay current on changes in the field of nursing?

Common Tools in Industry

Electronic Health Records (EHR). A digital record of patient health information that can be accessed easily by care providers. (eg: Epic, Cerner)
Assessment Software. Software used to collect and analyze patient data to create individualized care plans. (eg: MediLinks)
Automated Dispensing Systems. A machine that stores and dispenses medications and medical supplies in an organized and secure manner. (eg: Pyxis Medication Dispensing System)
Medical Terminology Reference Books. Reference books that provide definitions for medical terms typically used in the healthcare field. (eg: Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary)
Emergency Care Kits. Kits containing basic medical supplies used for emergency situations. (eg: Trauma First Aid Kit)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Clothing and equipment used to protect medical professionals from infection and other risks. (eg: face masks, gloves, gowns)
Drug Reference Books. Reference books that provide information on medications typically prescribed by healthcare providers. (eg: The Pill Book)
Stethoscope. An acoustic medical device used to listen to the internal sounds of a patients body. (eg: Littmann Classic III Stethoscope)
Vital Signs Monitors. Devices used to measure a patients heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, respiratory rate, and other vital signs. (eg: Welch Allyn Spot Vital Signs Monitor)
Point-of-Care Testing Devices. Portable testing devices used to quickly diagnose a patients condition. (eg: Abbott i-Stat System)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Nurses Association (ANA)
National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service (NAPNES)
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)
National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN)
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
National League for Nursing (NLN)
National Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (NOADN)
American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants (AALNC)
Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN)
Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN)

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Common Important Terms

Nursing Care Plan. A comprehensive plan of care that outlines the nursing care that a patient needs to receive.
Patient Education. The process of educating patients about their health and providing them with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their care.
Medication Administration. The process of administering medications to patients, including the proper dosage and timing of medication.
Medical Terminology. A specialized language used by healthcare professionals to accurately describe medical conditions and treatments.
Vital Signs. A set of measurements taken by healthcare professionals to assess a patients status, including temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure.
Wound Care. The management and treatment of wounds, including cleaning, dressing, and bandaging.
Infection Control. Practices used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in healthcare settings.
Documentation. The process of accurately recording patient information, including medical history, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)?

A Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) is a healthcare professional with a state license to provide basic nursing care to patients.

What qualifications are required to be an LVN?

To become an LVN, individuals must complete a state-approved nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN).

What types of duties do LVNs typically perform?

LVNs typically perform duties such as patient assessments, administering medications, providing wound care, and taking vital signs.

How much does an LVN typically earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Licensed Vocational Nurses in the United States was $46,240 in May 2019.

What is the job outlook for LVNs?

The job outlook for LVNs is very positive. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of Licensed Vocational Nurses will grow 12% from 2018 to 2028, faster than average for all occupations.