Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is an entry-level nurse who provides basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians. Duties include monitoring vital signs, administering certain medications, and assisting with daily care across many clinical settings.
What is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a nurse who provides basic patient care while working under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians. The role focuses on hands-on, day-to-day care rather than the broader scope held by registered nurses.
Typical LPN duties include monitoring vital signs, administering certain medications, and assisting patients with routine care needs. LPNs practice across many settings, from clinics and long-term care to surgical facilities.
Why does the LPN role matter in clinical staffing?
Licensed Practical Nurses extend a care team's capacity by handling foundational nursing tasks, freeing registered nurses and physicians to focus on higher-acuity work. This division of labor helps facilities staff efficiently while maintaining safe coverage.
Their defined scope of practice and supervision requirements also shape how care is organized, since certain tasks must be delegated and overseen appropriately. Understanding those boundaries is important for both patient safety and compliant staffing.
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