Key Points

• What is an LPN? A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a licensed nurse who provides essential, hands-on patient care, administers medications, and monitors patient health under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or physician.
• How to become an LPN in North Carolina? To work in North Carolina, you must graduate from a state-approved practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN national licensure exam.
• Length of training for an LPN: LPN diploma programs in North Carolina are very fast and can be completed in 10 to 12 months.
• Average LPN salary in North Carolina: The median salary for an LPN in North Carolina is approximately $58,500 per year.
• Number of employment of LPNs in North Carolina: As of May 2024, there were approximately 45,200 Licensed Practical Nurses employed in North Carolina.

What is LPN?

An LPN, or Licensed Practical Nurse, is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care and support to patients under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or a physician. LPNs are responsible for tasks such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, providing basic wound care, and assisting patients with daily living activities.

What does an LPN do?

An LPN's duties are a blend of direct patient care and clinical tasks performed under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) or doctor. Common responsibilities include:

• Monitoring patients' vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature.
• Administering medications, including oral, topical, and injectable drugs.
• Performing basic nursing procedures, such as wound care, catheter insertion, and collecting lab specimens.
• Observing patients, documenting their condition, and reporting any changes to the supervising RN.
• Educating patients and their families on care plans and health management.

Requirements to Become an LPN in North Carolina

To practice as an LPN in North Carolina, you must be licensed by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. The requirements are mandatory and ensure a high standard of care.

• Education: You must have a high school diploma or a GED.
• Approved Program: You must successfully graduate from a practical nursing education program that is approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.
• National Exam: You must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
• Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check as part of the licensure process.
• State License: You must hold an active LPN license issued by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

How to Become an LPN in North Carolina?

To become an LPN in North Carolina, individuals must first complete an approved nursing program, such as a diploma or associate degree program. Next, they must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain their license. Once licensed, LPNs in North Carolina can then search for job opportunities in healthcare settings, where they can earn a competitive salary.

1. Meet the Foundational Requirements

Before you can apply to a nursing program, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Most LPN programs also require you to pass an entrance exam (like the TEAS test) and complete prerequisite courses in subjects like anatomy and physiology.

2. Enroll in a Board-Approved LPN Program

Your most critical step is to enroll in a practical nursing program that is officially approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing. These diploma programs, typically offered at community colleges, are intensive and fast-paced. They combine classroom instruction in pharmacology and nursing fundamentals with hands-on clinical rotations in local hospitals and long-term care facilities.

3. Earn Your LPN License

After graduating from your program, you must earn your state license to legally practice as a nurse.

How to Get an LPN License in North Carolina?

Apply to the Board: You must submit an application for licensure by examination to the North Carolina Board of Nursing and register with the testing service, Pearson VUE.

• Pass the NCLEX-PN: You must take and pass the NCLEX-PN, a national standardized exam that tests your nursing knowledge and critical thinking skills.

• Receive Your License: Once you have passed the NCLEX-PN and your background check is clear, the Board will issue your LPN license.

4. Apply for LPN Jobs

Once you are a licensed LPN, you are ready to enter the workforce. A great resource for exploring the specific skills and knowledge employers seek is MyNextMove.org.

How to Get an LPN Job in North Carolina?

Create a professional resume that highlights your new LPN license and your clinical rotation experience. Search for job openings on the career pages of major North Carolina health systems like Atrium Health, Novant Health, and UNC Health, as well as at long-term care facilities and physician practices. Emphasize your clinical skills and your commitment to patient care in your applications and interviews.