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Licensed Nurse (LPN or LVN)

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) work under the direction of doctors and registered nurses (RNs). They provide nursing care that requires technical knowledge and skill but not the in-depth professional education and training of a registered nurse.

LPNs and LVNs may work in hospitals, clinics, and doctors' offices and for home health agencies. Some LPNs and LVNs work as private-duty nurses, caring for one person at home or in the hospital.

Licensed nurses are required to complete an approved nursing program that is usually at least 1 year long and is often 2 years long. Licensed nurses are required to take a licensing examination in the state in which they practice.

Last Revised: August 20, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine

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