Licensed Practical Nursing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Following are a list of frequently asked questions about the profession of licenced practical nursing. If you have further questions, please contact the school nearest you.

Q1: What are the roles and resposibilites of a licenced practical nurse (LPN)?
Q2: What are the educational requirements necessary for the position?
Q3: What types of programs are there?
Q4: What is the approximate cost of an LPN education?
Q5: Do I receive a license upon completion of the program?
Q6: Will it be hard to find a job after I graduate?
Q7: Is becoming an LPN a stepping stone to a career as a registered nurse (RN)?
Q8: If I attend nursing scool in New York State, can I accept work in another state?

Q1: What are the roles and resposibilities of a licensed practical nurse?

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) provide hands-on healtcare in settings such as hospitals, doctors offices, homes and long-term care facilities such as nursing homes. Practical nurses work under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses as members of the health care team. The nursing field is well-suited to caring, responsible people who enjoy helping others, possess good interpersonal skills and enjoy working in a team-oriented atmosphere.

Q2: What are the educational requirements for the position?

New York State requires that practical nurses complete an accredited nursing program lasting a minimum of nine (9) months. Programs are available at various educational institutions including two-year colleges and select high schools.

Q3: What different types of programs are available?

Nursing programs are available at a variety of schools. There are day, evening, full-time and part-time programs to fit virtually any schedule.

Q4: What is the approximate cost of an LPN education?

Expenses include tuition, books, uniforms and travel to school and clinical sites. In addition, you must have a physical exam and pay a moderate malpractice insurance fee. Prices vary according to schools, tuition ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. Individual schools can provide you with more exact costs for their programs.

Q5: Do I receive a license immediately upon completion of nursing school?

No, you must apply to the State Board for Nursing and pass the NCLEXPN exam.

Q6: Will it be difficult to find a job after I graduate?

The LPN job market is currently quite good. Still, employment opportunities vary by geographic area. We suggest reviewing the classified ads in your local newspapers for a few weeks. This will allow you to get a sense of the job market in your local area.

Q7: Is becoming an LPN a stepping stone to a career as a registered nurse (RN)?

Absolutely. There are many opportunities for LPNs to move up the education ladder to becoming an RN. Both associate's degree (ADN) and bachelor's degree (BSN) programs are widely available. Many even offer credit for your LPN education.

Q6: If I attend nursing school in New York, will it be possible for me to take up employment in another state?

Yes. Simply check the licensing requirements for the state you plan to work it. Feel free to use this list of state boards of nursing as a reference.