Understanding the Role and Scope of Practice for LPNs

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some states, are essential members of the healthcare team. They are often the ones providing direct, hands-on care to patients while working closely with RNs and physicians to deliver safe, effective treatment.

Despite their critical role, LPNs are sometimes under-recognized. In this post, we break down what LPNs do, how their scope is defined, and what professional development can look like for someone in this vital nursing role.

What Does an LPN Do?

LPNs provide routine nursing care across a variety of settings, including hospitals, home health agencies, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities. While the exact scope of practice varies by state, common tasks include:

Administering medications and injections (as permitted by state law)
Monitoring patient vitals
Providing wound care
Inserting urinary catheters
Collecting samples for lab tests
Assisting with personal hygiene and ADLs (activities of daily living)
Supporting patients with mobility and transfers
Documenting care and reporting changes in condition

In long-term care settings, LPNs are often the primary clinical caregivers, managing daily routines and serving as consistent points of contact for patients and families.

Understanding Scope of Practice

LPNs function under a defined scope of practice outlined by each state’s Nurse Practice Act. This includes clear guidelines about what they are allowed to do independently and what requires supervision. For instance:

In Florida, LPNs may not administer IV therapy with additional certification.
In Texas, LPNs cannot push IV medications without RN oversight.
In California, certain invasive procedures are limited unless the LPN is certified in a specific specialty.

Understanding scope is especially important for LPNs working across state lines under the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). LPNs must adhere to the laws of the state where the patient is located, not the nurse’s home state.

How LPNs Strengthen the Care Team

LPNs bring efficiency, empathy, and clinical awareness to every shift. Their role complements the care provided by RNs and APRNs, helping to:

Improve patient satisfaction
Detect early signs of clinical deterioration
Reduce workload for RNs
Provide emotional support for patients and families
Support continuity of care in long-term and rehabilitative settings

LPNs are also often seen as the glue that holds patient care teams together. They know the rhythms of a unit, build rapport with patients, and help reduce communication gaps.

Continuing Education and CEU Requirements

Most states require LPNs to complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain licensure. CEUs help ensure LPNs stay current with clinical best practices, new technologies, and regulatory changes.

Topics often include:

Infection control and prevention
Medication administration
Documentation and patient privacy laws
Human trafficking awareness
State-specific rules and ethical conduct

Online continuing education courses make it easier for busy LPNs to complete these requirements. Whether fulfilling Florida CEU packages or meeting Georgia Board of Nursing standards, staying compliant helps protect patients and your license.

Professional Development Opportunities

Many LPNs choose to pursue further education or specialization. Pathways include:

Bridge programs (LPN to RN or BSN)
Certification in areas like IV therapy, wound care, or hospice
Transitioning into leadership or administrative roles
Becoming preceptors for new LPNs or aides

By selecting continuing education credits that align with their goals, LPNs can carve out a path that balances patient care with personal growth.

Common Misconceptions About LPNs

LPNs are sometimes undervalued or misunderstood. Here are a few myths, and the truths behind them:

Myth 1: LPNs aren’t real nurses.
Truth: LPNs are licensed healthcare professionals who complete formal training and pass the NCLEX-PN. They hold a valid nursing license and play a crucial clinical role.

Myth 2: LPNs only work in nursing homes.
Truth: LPNs are employed in hospitals, doctor’s offices, public health clinics, urgent care centers, and home care, not just long-term care.

Myth 3: LPNs have no advancement options.
Truth: From specialization to becoming RNs or educators, LPNs have many professional pathways.

Addressing these misconceptions is important not just for nurses, but for patients and administrators who rely on LPNs every day.

Real-World Examples of LPN Impact

Mia, an LPN in Georgia, coordinates a mobile vaccine clinic. She helps patients understand their options, administers injections, and enters data on-site, helping rural populations access care.

Carlos, an LPN in Florida, works in a transitional rehab unit where he manages pain regimens and trains new CNAs. His fluency in Spanish also improves communication and trust among patients.

These examples underscore the real-life difference LPNs make, often quietly and consistently, throughout the healthcare system.

Voices From the Field: What LPNs Say

We asked a few LPNs what they love most about their role:

“I love the pace of it. I get to work closely with patients and really get to know them. It’s hands-on, but I also do a lot of thinking on my feet.”
– Leah, LPN, Florida

“I worked my way from CNA to LPN. Now I’m thinking about the bridge to RN. What I’ve learned through continuing education has helped me feel more confident.”
– Andre, LPN, Texas”Some people don’t realize how much we do. We catch a lot, and we make things work, especially in long-term care.”
– Shana, LPN, Georgia