Practical/Vocational Nurse

NewWhat it Takes

Watch this short video for the Practical/Vocational Nurse occupation.  (Windows Media Player)

Wages and Employment Trends For These Occupations

General Requirements

  • Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.
  • Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.
  • Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree (source: O*NET).
  • About 94% of workers in this occupational category have some college or less; 71% have some college (Source: BLS).
  • Training lasting about 1 year and is available in about 1,200 State-approved programs, mostly in vocational or technical schools. Most include both classroom study and supervised clinical practice (patient care).

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Care for ill, injured, convalescent, or disabled persons in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, group homes, and similar institutions.
  • May work under the supervision of a registered nurse.
  • Licensing required.

Sample Job Titles

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Charge Nurse, Clinic Nurse, Office Nurse.

Education and Credentials

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