CAREERS ENCYCLOPEDIA

Nurse, Licensed Practical (LPN)

Provides essential patient care under the guidance of registered nurses or doctors, including monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and helping with daily tasks (bathing and feeding).

Career Cluster Tag:
On The Job You Would:

Perform routine medical tasks such as wound care, placing a urinary tube, assist with preparing patients for exams or treatments, and provide emotional support to patients. Document patient information, update healthcare providers on changes, and help carry out care plans.

Knowledge
Basic nursing procedures, patient care techniques, medical terminology, healthcare regulations and infection control practices.
Skills
Clinical Skills:

Proficiency in performing medical tasks such as administering medications and wound care, ensuring proper patient treatment.

Communication Skills:

Effectively interact with patients, families, and healthcare teams to provide clear information.

Problem-Solving:

Address and resolve patient care issues or emergencies efficiently.

Abilities
Manual Dexterity:

Performing precise tasks, such as administering injections and handling medical equipment, with care and accuracy.

Attention to Detail:

Accurately monitoring and documenting patient conditions to address changes promptly.

Physical Stamina:

Handle the physical demands of the job, including long shifts and lifting or moving patients as needed.

Personality
Empathy:

Provide compassionate care and support to patients and their families during challenging times.

Patient:

Remains calm and understanding, even in challenging situations, while managing multiple tasks and patient needs.

Reliable:

Performing duties consistently and adhering to care protocols to ensure patient safety.

Technology
Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems like Medisoft for documenting patient information and medical devices, such as digital thermometers and blood pressure monitors.
Entry Requirements
Diploma or Bachelor's degree, passing a licensure examination and obtaining certification from Pakistan Nursing Council.
Job Outlook
Growing Healthcare Sector:

Increased establishment of hospitals and clinics drives demand for LPNs to support patient care services.

Aging Population:

Older population requires more healthcare services, creating more job opportunities for LPNs in various settings.

Enhanced Healthcare Focus:

Emphasis on improving healthcare quality and access boosts the need for skilled LPNs to provide essential patient care.

Where can you work?
In hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, healthcare centers, and home healthcare settings.
Education
Complete a Nursing Diploma:

Enroll in and graduate from a nursing diploma program to gain foundational knowledge and clinical skills.

Pursue a Bachelor's Degree:

Obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) for advanced training and broader career opportunities.

Pass the Licensing Exam:

Successfully pass the licensure examination conducted by the Pakistan Nursing Council to become a certified LPN.

Where can you study?
School of Nursing, King Edward Medical University, Lahore:

Offers comprehensive nursing diploma and Bachelor’s degree programs with a strong clinical training component.

College of Nursing, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Karachi:

Provides nursing education including diplomas and Bachelor’s degrees with a focus on practical skills.

Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad:

Features a School of Nursing offering Bachelor’s and advanced nursing programs, emphasizing professional development.

Expenses & Scholarships
Cost ranges from approximately PKR 150,000 to PKR 400,000 per year, depending on the institution. Scholarships and financial aid are offered by universities, government programs, and various organizations to assist with these expenses.

Similar Occupations: