What is a licensed practical nurse?

A licensed practical nurse is a health care worker who cares for sick and injured patients under the direction of a physician or registered nurse. A variety of different places employ licensed practical nurses, including hospitals, private practices, assisted living facilities and private homes.

In all U.S. states, licensed practical nurses must complete an educational training program. These programs generally take one year to complete and must have approval from the state nursing board. Some of the duties that a licensed practical nurse must perform include providing basic bedside care, starting IVs, administering medication, and providing care and cleaning for patients with limited mobility.