A licensed practical nurse provides a caring, sympathetic environment for patients who are sick or disabled. This care can be provided in venues such as nursing homes, doctor's offices and hospitals. The practical nurse fulfills duties like recording patient health information, taking vital signs, collecting samples, feeding infants and delivering injections. The nurse may also be asked to supervise nursing assistants.
One year of study is required to become a licensed practical nurse. This study generally combines both classroom learning and practical application at a local hospital. Once the student has earned a nursing degree, she must pass the National Council Licensure Examination. This test is administered by the state in which the student is taking the exam.
The typical licensed practical nursing degree program generally costs approximately $2,000 to complete, as of 2011. Many schools offer scholarships and grants to assist with this cost. These programs are usually based on a combination of qualifications and need. Work-study and loan forgiveness programs may also be available to the qualified candidate.
A licensed practical nurse makes between $33,920 and $47,220 per year, as of May 2009, according to All Nursing Schools. The highest salary is earned by nurses in the employment services industry. Nurses in that field can expect to earn an average of $46,190. Demand for licensed practical nurses is expected to increase by 21 percent through 2018.