How to Become an LPN (2024)

FAQs

What is the best way to study for LPN? ›

LPN school is a challenging undertaking for aspiring nurses, but with good study habits and a healthy work ethic, completing your program can be much easier. Keep reading for a few tips that can help you finish your program successfully.

A more rapid path to becoming a licensed practical nurse is provided through fast-track LPN programs. These programs are made to be finished in a shorter amount of time, usually between six and nine months.

Some schools will include college-level math classes in the program, but most only require students to have high school-level math or a limited amount of college algebra or statistics. The math prerequisites for an LPN certificate are usually less advanced math courses like algebra or statistics.

A typical LPN training program may take a year or more, while CNA programs last only four to eight weeks. While LPN programs are more in-depth regarding patient care procedures, CNAs can graduate and join the workforce more quickly. Both professionals must pass an exam to work in their intended roles.

According to the National League for Nursing, the national dropout rate for nursing programs in the United States is 20%, and this high attrition rate is considered problematic. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission set the desirable retention rate at 80%.

The work setting in which the largest percentage worked was long-term care (37%). Of the average 37 hours worked per week by LPNs, 25 hours were spent in direct patient care. The average age of practicing LPNs was 46 and 12% of LPNs were male.

What is the downside to being a LPN? ›

Cons of Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Limited Advancement Opportunities: LPNs typically have fewer career advancement options, lower salaries, and a more limited scope of practice than registered nurses.

Pharmacology, Microbiology, and Anatomy & Physiology each have a well-earned reputation for being difficult to pass. Some students may find Cardiology, Chemistry, or even Mental Health especially trying.

States with the Lowest LPN Average Salaries

In contrast, among the states where LPNs earn the least amount of money are Mississippi, where LPNs earn $45,020 per year; Alabama, with an annual salary of $45,260; and West Virginia, with a $45,530 yearly salary for licensed practical nurses.

Recommended study times may vary depending upon the level of preparation needed and can range anywhere from four to twelve weeks or more. Although this article provides a guide to studying for the NCLEX in one month, it is highly recommended you allocate more than just four weeks to prepare for your exam.

If you want to be ready for nursing school, you should make sure you understand concepts in biology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology. Reviewing the processes involved in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal and endocrine system and understanding feedback loops will also help prepare you.

The NCLEX scoring system uses a unit of measurement called logits to score questions and determine whether candidates pass or fail. Logits report the differences between the candidate's ability estimates and the question difficulty. The current passing standard of the NCLEX is -0.18 logits.