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Tasks & Responsibilities of an LPN

An LPN (licensed practical nurse) is a nurse trained to perform a variety of tasks involving patient health under the supervision of doctors or registered nurses (RNs). In order to become an LPN, one must complete the necessary educational requirements, usually offered by an online or community college, and pass an exam. If you're thinking about becoming an LPN, it's in your best interest to know which tasks and responsibilities are required.

  1. Basic Bedside Care

    • Many of the responsibilities of LPNs fall under the category of basic bedside care. These tasks include taking patients' vital signs (such as blood pressure, temperature and pulse) and administering first aid (cleaning and dressing wounds). But another element of basic bedside care is patient comfort. Much of the time, LPNs will be responsible for cleaning and bathing patients, administering enemas, massaging muscles and taking care of the patients' hygiene. An LPN may also may be asked to feed patients, or assist them in walking or using the restroom.

    Patient Monitoring

    • Another major responsibility of LPNs is patient monitoring. Many patients in hospitals require frequent care and observation, especially if they have high blood pressure, diabetes or a cardio-vascular disease. Taking regular measurements of blood pressure, temperature, blood glucose levels and administering medications are all part of the responsibilities of an LPN. LPNs will also make sure patients are taking the proper amounts of medications at the proper times, as well as regularly monitoring patient comfort, feelings or symptoms, and keeping a record of patients' diets.

    Caring for the Disabled and Terminally Ill

    • LPNs are also heavily involved taking care of disabled and terminally ill patients. Some duties LPNs will be asked to perform include: bathing and dressing the patients, assisting with their doctor-prescribed exercises, monitoring their medication and administering IVs.

    Clerical Work

    • In some cases, doctors or hospitals will require LPNs to perform clerical duties such as booking appointments, arranging schedules, ordering medications, and organizing patient charts. However, these duties are typically reserved for LPNs who work in a private doctor's office or a nursing home.

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