Wallace State: Practical Nursing

Application Packet (updated January 2008)

Physical Form Essential Functions
This Physical Form consists of five pages including the Essential Functions which must be presented to the physician at the time of physical.

AWARD OFFERED Certificate

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) care for the sick, injured, convalescent, and disabled under the direction of physicians and registered nurses.

Most LPNs provide basic care, such as taking vital signs, administering medication and performing treatments. LPNs collaborate with RNs to monitor patients and report adverse reactions to medications or treatments. They collect samples for testing, perform routine laboratory tests, feed patients, and record food and fluid intake and output. To help keep patients comfortable,LPNs assist with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene. In states where the law allows, they may administer prescribed medicines or start intravenous fluids. Experienced LPNs may supervise nursing assistants and aides.

In addition to providing routine bedside care, LPNs in extended nursing care facilities help to evaluate residents’ needs, develop care plans, and supervise the care provided by nursing aides. In doctors’ offices and clinics, they also may make appointments, keep records, and perform other clerical duties. LPNs who work in private homes may prepare meals and teach family members simple nursing tasks.

The Wallace State Practical Nursing program combines classroom and clinical experience to teach students to identify scientific principles which are the basis for safe, effective nursing care and apply those principles to meet individual client needs. Graduates find employment in acute care facilities, physician’s offices, and industry.

Employment of LPNs is expected to grow through 2012 in response to the long-term care needs of an increasing elderly population and the general growth of healthcare. Physicians’ offices and outpatient care centers such as ambulatory surgical and emergency medical centers will provide excellent job opportunities.

Median annual earnings of licensed practical nurses were $33,970 in May 2004, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $46,270. (Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Dr. Denise Elliott, Program Director
256/352-8198
denise.elliott@wallacestate.edu