How to Become an LPN With Online Classes

By Nicky LaMarco

  • Overview

    If you are looking for an exciting medical career that doesn't require extensive schooling and you'd like to take classes online, you may consider training to become an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). Typically LPNs have the most interaction with patients so you need to not only be versatile and equipped to handle many personality types, but you also need to be a quick thinker. If you think you have what it takes to be a great LPN, then starting your medical career online can be as easy as snapping your fingers once you get the basics down.
    Stethoscope

    • Step 1

      Get a high school diploma or GED. While it may not be a requirement to get employed, it probably will be for most accredited LPN programs, and the nursing world is highly competitive. This is why every step you can take to give yourself an edge should be taken so that you can quickly find a job as an LPN and come out on top after completing a program.

    • Step 2

      Consider the costs of attending an accredited LPN school online. Many online programs such as the National College and Kaplan can offer you training to pass the LPN exam through online classes, but the costs are usually about the same as a traditional college. Also, think about the time costs. Choose a school that offers convenient scheduling for your classes that will make it possible to continue your day job and any family obligations you may have.

    • Step 3

      Try to get into a nursing atmosphere for your day job while taking online nursing classes. The nursing world is very competitive and you will most likely have to fight for a job against other candidates once you graduate and pass the national LPN exam. Any experience you can get as an assistant or even a volunteer at a hospital, nursing home or doctor's office is going to help you in the long run. So start getting exposure and possibly some certifications on infectious diseases, CPR, chemicals and climate controlled environments before you have the LPN degree so you can place these on your resume.

    • Step 4

      Consider your Internet connectivity. While you may be excited about taking classes online and worried about finding a program, remember that online classes mean you are completely dependent on your Internet connection and computer. Make sure both are reliable because if either goes out on you then you will get behind in class and possibly not be able to finish. Most online schools will not issue a refund so make sure you are prepared technologically before you enroll in classes.

    • Step 5

      After completing your coursework you will have to take the NCLEX-PN or National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses test. This standardized test will make sure that you know both the practical and clinical skills required to become a licensed practical nurse. You can expect to spend $20 to $50 on this test depending on where you live in the United States.
    • Skill: Moderately Easy
    • Tip: Strive to get as much experience in medical environments as possible. Even if you are simply cleaning rooms you will have to pass some basic examinations in the medical environment. This experience may help you in the future on your resume.
    • Tip: LPNs have to deal with many different and sometimes difficult patient types; if you are not compassionate and patient you may want to reconsider your career choice.
    • Tip: Once you receive your LPN certificate, it is not uncommon to continue training to advance in the medical climate. Continuing education will not only keep you sharp, but in high demand so you may want to consider building a future farther than an LPN to a Registered Nurse (RN).

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