Benefits to Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse

If you’re passionate about caring for people and are interested in pursuing a career in nursing, there are a number of reasons you might want to get a diploma in Practical Nursing. Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) offers a variety of opportunities that surround the performance of basic nursing functions and patient care.  There are great benefits to becoming an LPN that could make this the perfect career choice for you.

You Can Start Your Career Sooner

Some Registered Nursing (RN) programs may take from 2 to 4 years to complete.  You may be able to earn your Practical Nursing Diploma in as little as 18 to 20 months. That means you’ll have additional time to start gaining valuable real-world experience, building up your resume, and – of course – actually making money.

You’ll Have More Job Opportunities

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the future job prospects for practical nurses is expected to grow at a much faster than average rate – 9% through 2029. As the Baby Boomer generation gets older, there will continue to be an increased need for healthcare workers – especially in assisted living, skilled nursing, and senior care facilities. Your skills as an LPN will be in high demand from day one, and you’ll have a better chance to find the job you want. You’ll also have better job security.

You Can Work in a Variety of Settings

LPNs are employed in a wide range of environments including hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, nursing facilities, home healthcare, military nursing or travel nursing. There are opportunities that you didn’t even know existed. Maybe you’d enjoy working in a bustling hospital, or you’d prefer working with children in a Pediatrician’s office. There are many areas of opportunity for LPNs.

You’ll Have Options for Advancing Your Career

Once you’ve gained experience as an LPN, you may decide that you’d like to pursue an RN degree. You’ll have the benefit of the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired to help you in continuing your education.  You may also have the ability to take classes while you continue to work.  

You’ll Help Care for Others

Finally, let’s not forget the biggest benefit to a career in healthcare – feeling the satisfaction of helping care for someone who needs you. There is perhaps nothing more rewarding than providing comfort and helping someone feel better when they are in pain, afraid, or lonely. If you’re passionate about people, a career as an LPN could be incredibly satisfying.

If you’re looking to start a career as an LPN, check out our Practical Nursing Diploma Program at Daytona College. We’ll teach you the skills needed to prepare for your NCLEX-PN exam so you can become licensed and start working in your field. See for yourself if Daytona College is right for you – schedule an admissions appointment  or contact us today to learn more.