What Does a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Do?
A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians. LPNs play a hands-on role in delivering routine medical care, monitoring patient conditions, and ensuring comfort and safety. They serve as a vital link between patients and the rest of the care team in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, home health, and rehabilitation facilities.
Daily duties for LPNs may include checking vital signs, administering medications, dressing wounds, assisting with mobility, and documenting care activities. They also help patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, eating, and toileting. LPNs are trained to recognize signs of health deterioration and report changes promptly. Their responsibilities and level of autonomy vary by state, but all LPNs must work within a defined scope of practice and maintain excellent attention to detail and patient interaction skills.
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Licensed Practical Nurse Core Responsibilities
- Measure and record vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse
- Administer prescribed medications and injections as directed by physicians or RNs
- Monitor patients and report changes in condition to supervising clinicians
- Assist patients with personal hygiene and daily living activities
- Perform wound care, catheterization, and dressing changes
- Maintain accurate and timely patient charts using EHR systems
- Support patient education and emotional well-being
- Follow infection control protocols and safety procedures
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in basic patient care procedures and nursing techniques
- Ability to administer oral and injectable medications
- Familiarity with EHR software and medical documentation
- Understanding of anatomy, pharmacology, and vital sign interpretation
Soft skills
- Compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Detail-oriented with strong observation and documentation abilities
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-based environment
- Patience and professionalism in emotionally sensitive situations
Education
- Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program
- High school diploma or equivalent required
Certifications
- Active state licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification required
- IV therapy certification may be required in some care settings
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–2 years of experience in long-term care, clinical, or acute care settings
- Familiarity with patient education, home care, or rehabilitation environments
- Knowledge of HIPAA and infection control regulations
National Average Salary
LPN salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is:
$64,735
Sample Job Description Templates for Licensed Practical Nurses
Entry-Level LPN
Position Overview
We are hiring an Entry-Level Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to join our patient care team and provide direct nursing support under the supervision of RNs and physicians. This is an excellent opportunity for recent LPN graduates to gain hands-on experience in a clinical or long-term care setting while developing essential nursing skills.
Responsibilities
- Take and document vital signs, weight, and basic health indicators
- Assist patients with mobility, personal hygiene, and daily living activities
- Administer medications as directed and monitor for adverse effects
- Report changes in patient conditions to supervising RN or physician
- Keep accurate, up-to-date patient records in electronic health systems
- Support patient safety, comfort, and dignity at all times
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic patient care and monitoring
- Accurate medication administration and charting
- Familiarity with EHR systems
Soft skills
- Compassionate, patient-centered approach
- Ability to follow instructions and ask questions when unsure
- Strong communication and time management skills
Education
- Completion of a state-approved LPN program
- High school diploma or GED
Certifications
- Active LPN license in applicable state
- BLS/CPR certification
Preferred Qualifications
- Clinical rotation or internship experience during LPN training
Experienced LPN
Position Overview
We are seeking an Experienced Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) with 2+ years of hands-on nursing experience. This role is ideal for LPNs who can manage complex patient care needs with confidence and contribute to a collaborative clinical team.
Responsibilities
- Perform daily patient care routines with minimal supervision
- Administer medications, monitor IV infusions (if certified), and conduct wound care
- Provide updates and assessments to RN supervisors and physicians
- Train or mentor junior LPNs and nursing assistants when needed
- Maintain thorough, accurate records and comply with safety protocols
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficient in medication administration, wound care, and monitoring
- Knowledge of chronic condition management and basic triage
- Skilled in using EHR platforms and vital signs equipment
Soft skills
- Leadership within peer group
- Confidence in independent clinical decision-making (within scope)
- Clear, professional communication
Education
- State-approved LPN program graduate
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- Active LPN license
- BLS/CPR certification
- IV certification (as required by state/facility)
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–5 years of experience in a clinical, long-term care, or outpatient setting
Charge LPN
Position Overview
We’re hiring a Charge LPN to oversee day-to-day nursing operations for a designated unit or shift. This role combines direct patient care with leadership responsibilities, including task delegation, shift planning, and staff support.
Responsibilities
- Provide patient care while supervising LPNs, CNAs, and support staff
- Delegate assignments and monitor workflow for nursing assistants
- Communicate with physicians and RNs regarding patient status
- Resolve issues related to patient care delivery and shift logistics
- Ensure all documentation, handoffs, and medication passes are completed accurately
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong clinical knowledge and medication management
- Familiarity with team coordination, reporting, and incident documentation
- Leadership-level EHR usage
Soft skills
- Confident decision-maker and communicator
- Conflict resolution and team motivation
- Accountability and time management
Education
- LPN program graduate with leadership experience
Certifications
- Active LPN license
- BLS/CPR certification
- IV therapy certification (as required)
Preferred Qualifications
- 3+ years of nursing experience, including shift leadership
Lead LPN – Unit Coordinator
Position Overview
We are seeking a Lead LPN – Unit Coordinator to manage day-to-day operations on a clinical or long-term care unit. This role includes direct patient care, staff coordination, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams to ensure efficient and effective care delivery.
Responsibilities
- Oversee shift assignments, coverage, and care quality across unit
- Lead unit huddles and ensure compliance with care plans
- Coordinate communication between nursing staff, physicians, and therapists
- Mentor new hires and participate in training efforts
- Monitor supply inventory and flag operational needs
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced patient care knowledge and workflow management
- Proficient with EHR systems, staff scheduling, and unit documentation
- Familiarity with compliance and audit procedures
Soft skills
- Leadership under pressure
- Ability to drive quality and morale among clinical staff
- Excellent written and verbal communication
Education
- Graduate of accredited LPN program
Certifications
- Valid LPN license
- BLS/CPR certification
- Supervisor/charge nurse certification (if required by facility)
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years LPN experience with at least 1 year in a supervisory role
Travel LPN
Position Overview
We’re hiring a Travel LPN to provide short-term clinical coverage at multiple healthcare facilities. Ideal candidates are flexible, quick to adapt, and experienced in fast-paced environments like long-term care, rehab, or hospitals.
Responsibilities
- Deliver hands-on patient care across multiple shift types and settings
- Follow care plans and facility protocols while adapting to new teams
- Accurately document patient care activities in various EHR systems
- Communicate effectively with temporary and permanent staff
- Maintain readiness for deployment and complete onboarding per assignment
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong patient care and technical nursing abilities
- Comfortable learning new workflows and technologies quickly
- Broad clinical exposure (e.g., med-surg, rehab, LTC)
Soft skills
- Adaptable and self-directed in unfamiliar environments
- Dependable and punctual across assignments
- Strong collaboration with new teams
Education
- State-approved LPN program completion
Certifications
- Active multistate (compact) or single-state LPN license (per location)
- BLS/CPR certification
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–2 years of experience in travel nursing or multi-setting care
- Familiarity with staffing agency protocols and credentialing