Served Graduated Average JP Wages

469 272 $16.82

Summary of Career: Licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) provide basic nursing care. Typical duties include: monitor patients’ health, administer basic patient care, provide for the basic comfort of patients, discuss the care they are providing with patients and listen to their concerns, report patients’ status and concerns to registered nurses and doctors, and keep records on patients’ health. They work under the direction of registered nurses and doctors.

Projected Growth: In the Upper Rio Grande region, employment of licensed vocational nurses is projected to grow almost 25% from 2012 to 2022. As the baby-boom population ages, the overall need for healthcare services is expected to increase. LVNs will be needed in residential care facilities and in home health environments to care for older patients. The Projected Annual Job Openings shown below refers to the average annual job openings due to growth and net replacement.

SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

Note: The data for the Local and State Employment Trends and the National Employment Trends are not directly comparable. The projections period for local and state data is 2012-2022, while the projections period for national data is 2014-2024.

Education: LVNs must complete an approved educational program. These programs award a certificate or diploma and typically take about 1 year to complete, but may take longer. LVN programs combine classroom learning in subjects such as nursing, biology, and pharmacology. All programs also include supervised clinical experience.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations: After completing a state-approved educational program, prospective LVNs can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). In all states, they must pass the exam to get a license and work as an LVN.