Licensed Vocational Nursing (California Licensed Nurse)

A Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. LVNs are also known as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). They are responsible for rendering basic nursing care, such as monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and providing wound care. To become an LVN, one must complete a state-approved vocational nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). The curricular requirements for an LVN program include 1,530 total hours of training, which includes theory and clinical practice. The program length can range from 12 to 20 months depending on whether it is full-time or part-time.