Description:
A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a licensed health care practitioner who provides nursing care under the direction of an RN, CNS, NP, midwife, physician, physician assistant, specialist assistant, dentist or podiatrist. LPNs provide compassionate care that is respectful of each patient’s needs, values and wishes. They work a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, mental health facilities, clinics, private practices, correctional facilities, and private homes.
LPNs typically provide the following nursing services under the supervision and direction of an RN, clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner or physician:
• Administer most types of medications, immunizations and blood products (with additional specialized training).
• Provide bedside nursing care in hospitals and nursing homes.
• Observe, measure, record, and report clinical data relating to a patient’s health status.
• Perform a variety of clinical procedures, such as urinary catheterization, tracheal suctioning, sterile dressing changes, and starting an IV (with additional specialized training).
• Supervise care provided by other health care personnel, such as certified nurse aides in nursing homes.
• Provide emotional support and health teaching to patients and their families.
New York law does not allow LPNs to: practice nursing independently, perform nursing assessments or triage, develop nursing care plans or provide mental health counseling.
LPNs are not allowed to provide clinical services that require nursing or medical assessments. For example, LPNs do not administer IV chemotherapy, IV anesthesia or IV antibody therapy.
Educational and Licensing Requirements:
To be licensed and registered as an LPN in New York State, you must: be of good moral character; be at least seventeen years of age; be a high school graduate (or the equivalent); graduate from a nursing education program acceptable to NYSED; complete New York State required infection control coursework; pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) or another license examination acceptable to NYSED; and, apply for an LPN license with NYSED. After you qualify for a license as an LPN, NYSED will issue you a license parchment and a registration certificate. Your license is valid for life, unless it is surrendered, revoked, annulled, or suspended by the New York State Board of Regents. You must renew your registration every 3 years to continue to practice as an RN in New York State. You are not legally allowed to practice as an RN while your registration is expired.