How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Vocational Nurse?
Dec 13, 2014 | 9:00 am
Before Nursing School
One of the first things a person needs to do to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse is to complete their high school diploma. A diploma can be obtained through graduating high school or finishing the courses to obtain a GED. Once a High School diploma is obtained, a graduate can then think in terms of a career in Licensed Vocational Nursing. The amount of time it takes to earn a degree in Licensed Vocational Nursing will depend on several circumstances.
Choosing a Nursing School
The first thing a student will need to do is decide on the program and college they want to receive their training at. Usually, an LVN can obtain their diploma within 1-2 years. Typically, Junior Colleges will cost less than going to a university. The student taking classes at a university will pay more than those attending a community college, especially if there is a community college near the student’s home. Another option is taking classes at a school that specializes in training students to be an LVN. Training from a specialized school will cost considerably more in tuition and fees than getting a good education at a community college, which will cost a lot less.
Another factor is family situation. Someone who is married and has home or work responsibilities may take a little longer to achieve their goal.
Basic Requirements
Part of the education process for an LVN will be in the classroom. A student will usually take courses such as Anatomy, Biology, and Physiology. It also covers the fundamentals such as Nursing, Nutrition, Basic Health Care, and Poison Control. An LVN will be required to take CPR and other life-saving measures in case of an emergency.
Along with classroom learning, a student will be required to do hands-on, supervised training in a hospital or other nursing facility. By working with other nurses and patients, it will help the LVN student become familiar with the day-to-day operations on a nursing facility and what their day might be like on a daily basis.
State Testing
Along with education and training, an LVN will be required to pass a state test. In order to become a fully employed nurse, the student must schedule, take, and pass the NCLEX-PN exam to get a license. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing will give you the step-by-step instructions on how to prepare for the test. The test is computer based and those who do not pass the exam must wait three months before retaking it. They must also pay the fee to take the test again.
The Benefits of Nursing
Whether a student choose to go to a high-priced vocational school or take classes at the local community college does not mean the student will have to worry about the quality of education. All students take the same type of courses and training. A comprehensive overview of the LVN nursing requirements can be found online, according to particular state requirements. The important thing is to study, pass the exam, and get licensed. The student who wishes to become an LVN or LPN must make their own choice based on what works for them. Either way, they will be training for a worthwhile profession that is both needed and respected working with students who need special care.