Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also known as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some states, are essential members of the healthcare team who provide direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians.
Here are some key aspects of Licensed Practical Nurses:
- Patient Care: LPNs provide basic nursing care to patients. They assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, and they monitor patients’ health status by measuring vital signs and observing symptoms.
- Medication Administration: LPNs administer medications (oral, injections, topical) as prescribed by physicians or registered nurses. They may also insert intravenous (IV) catheters and provide basic IV therapy, depending on state regulations and their scope of practice.
- Wound Care and Dressing Changes: They assist in wound care management, including changing dressings, monitoring healing progress, and providing basic care for wounds or skin conditions.
- Documentation and Record-Keeping: LPNs maintain accurate patient records, documenting observations, treatments, and medications administered. These records are crucial for monitoring patient progress and communicating with other healthcare team members.
- Collaboration: LPNs work closely with registered nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to implement patient care plans, provide updates on patient conditions, and ensure a coordinated approach to patient care.
- Patient and Family Education: They educate patients and their families about healthcare procedures, medications, and aftercare instructions, ensuring they understand and follow the prescribed treatments.
LPNs work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, clinics, and home healthcare. Their role is critical in providing hands-on patient care, implementing care plans, and ensuring patients’ comfort and well-being under the guidance and supervision of registered nurses or other higher-level healthcare providers.