Job Description

Southwestern Illinois College’s Practical Nursing program prepares students with the basic skills necessary to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Practical Nurses:

• Work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician
• Help patients or residents perform basic daily activities
• Provide basic bedside care for the sick, injured and convalescent. and
• Give injections, take vital signs, collect samples, perform diagnostic tests, and dress wounds.
• Administer medication and report status of the patient. 

Career Opportunities

LPNs work in a variety of settings including:

• Long-term care facilities
• Home health
• Doctor offices
• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics

Career Outlook

According to U.S. Department of Labor 2019-29 Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of licensed practical nurses is expected to grow by 9 percent, much faster than the average for all occupations

Salary

Average Starting Salary

On average a LPNs can expect to earn $23.11 per hour or $48, 070 per year.  Hourly and salary ranges can vary dependent on hiring facility and demographics.