Sarasota County Vocational Technical Center

Nursing Programs Offered

LPN Program Details

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) help care for ill or injured people and perform health maintenance duties under the direction of physicians, osteopathic physicians, dentists, and registered nurses.

Most LPNs provide basic bedside care to patients such as taking temperature, blood pressure, pulse and respirations, applying dressings, helping patients with bathing and personal hygiene, and administering prescribed medications. LPNs observe and report on patients' symptoms, reaction to treatment and medication, and progress. Some LPNs help registered nurses care for seriously ill patients in intensive care units or in the delivery and care of infants.

LPNs work in hospitals, nursing homes, doctors' offices, private homes, health departments, and other settings. They generally work 40-hour weeks which include weekends, nights, and holidays. The work demands that they be on their feet most of the time. Bending, stooping, lifting, and walking are required. The work can be very rewarding for those who enjoy being of service to others.

Practical nursing training programs are offered in community colleges, technical and vocational centers, and hospitals. The programs usually take one year to complete and certify the graduate to take the state licensure examination. Most programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or the equivalent and pass a physical exam. Classroom instruction covers basic nursing concepts, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, first-aid, and other related subjects. Supervised clinical experience is provided in hospitals and other settings.