What is a Licensed Vocational Nurse Diploma or Certificate?
Licensed vocational nursing diplomas prepare students to acquire licensure and work as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs), depending on the state (California and Texas use the LVN designation, while all other states use the LPN title). These programs generally conclude with the awarding of a diploma or professional certificate and include coursework in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pediatrics and basic nursing skills. Programs generally last one year, and after graduation students are prepared to attain licensure as licensed practical or vocational nurses. Working under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs), LPNs might specialize in areas such as long-term or home care. Some eventually acquire the training and licensure to become RNs themselves. Licensed Vocational Nurse: Long-Term Care Licensed vocational or licensed practical nurses in long-term care settings work in assisted-living homes, recovery wards and similar environments under t