Programs in licensed practical nursing prepare people to work as LPNs or vocational nurses. Students learn to give general nursing care as directed by registered nurses, doctors, or dentists. Students also learn how to put on sterile dressings and help in exams and treatments.

Do you remember doctor visits as a child? Most of us were scared of the doctor, but not of the nurse. The nurse was usually kind and did a good job of calming us down, even though she was right there with the doctor when you got that shot or had to have stitches. Often, that nurse was an LPN, or licensed practical nurse.

LPNs provide basic medical care under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors. As an LPN, you can work in a variety of healthcare settings. You can work in private doctors' offices, clinics, hospitals, schools, and nursing homes.

As an LPN, you provide care to people with serious illnesses, injuries, or long-term conditions. You perform basic nursing care but focus more on the technical aspects of nursing. You might record blood pressure, take pulses, monitor respiration, or prepare injections. You also might help patients with daily tasks such as bathing and changing bandages.

In an LPN program, you take courses in nutrition, math, anatomy, biology, and chemistry. Your nursing courses focus on how to care for different patients, including older people, newborns, and people who just got out of surgery. Many of your classes focus on specific nursing skills, including giving medications, helping patients with personal hygiene, and taking vital signs.

Many two-year community colleges offer diplomas or associate degrees in licensed practical nursing. Having a diploma in practical nursing allows you to work as an LPN but does not give you a degree. These programs are less common. Most students choose to become LPNs through an associate degree program.

Licensed practical nursing programs usually take between one and three years to complete. Typically you receive your "ADN," or associate degree in Nursing.