The LVN utilizes scientific and technical expertise and manual skills.
Tasks can vary greatly, depending on where they work.
Usually, an LPN can perform an array of medical procedures—from first aid to minor surgery—but can do so only under the supervision of a physician or an RN.
-Most LPNs provide basic bedside care, taking vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration.
-Apply compresses, ice bags, and hot water bottles.
-Prepare and give injections and enemas, monitor catheters, helps patients perform routine activities, such bathing, and dressing, and give alcohol rubs and massages.
-Assist patients to walk and turn.
-Carefully monitor patients and report unfavorable reactions to medication or treatment to the supervising RN or physician.
-Feed patients, and record food and fluid intake and output.
-Assemble and use such equipment as catheters, tracheotomy tubes, and oxygen suppliers.
-Collect samples, such as urine, blood, and sputum, from patients for testing and perform routine laboratory tests.
-Sterilize equipment and supplies, using germicides, sterilizer, or autoclave.
-Some LPNs help to deliver, care for, and feed infants.
-Experienced LPNs may supervise nursing assistants and aides.
-In addition to providing routine bedside care, LPNs in nursing care facilities help to evaluate residents’ needs, develop care plans, and supervise the care provided by nursing aides.
-In doctors’ offices and clinics, they also may make appointments, keep records, and perform other clerical duties.
-LPNs who work in private may cook for their patients, keep rooms orderly, see that
patients are comfortable and in good spirits, and teach other family members simple nursing tasks.
-After specialized training, LVNs may work in psychiatry, surgery, intensive care, or coronary care.
-In some employment settings, such as nursing homes, LPNs can advance to become charge nurses who oversee the work of other LPNs and of nursing aides.
-Some LPNs also choose to become registered nurses through numerous LPN-to-RN training programs. |
