What it means
A licensed nurse with about a year of training, called a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) in California and Texas. LPN/LVNs care for clients whose condition is stable and predictable: they collect data, give many medications, do treatments such as dressing changes, and reinforce teaching that an RN has started. Each state's nurse practice act sets exactly what they may do.
For the nurse
On the exam, the RN keeps the initial assessment, care planning, first teaching, evaluation and care of unstable clients. A stable client with an expected course, routine treatments and reinforcing teaching can be assigned to the LPN/LVN. Admissions stay with the RN as well.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | LPN; LVN; LPN/VN |
|---|---|
| Also written | LPN, LVN, LPN/VN, practical nurse, licensed vocational nurse, practical nurses, licensed practical nurses, licensed vocational nurses, LPNs, LVNs, licensed practical/vocational nurse, licensed practical/vocational nurses |
Related terms
UAP
Unlicensed assistive personnel: trained workers without a nursing license, such as nursing assistants, who help with client care.
registered nurse
A nurse who has passed the NCLEX-RN and holds a state license to practice as an RN.
scope of practice
The actions and duties a licensed professional is legally allowed to perform.
nursing assistant
A trained, certified worker without a nursing license who helps clients with daily care under a nurse's direction.
licensure
The granting of a license by a government body that gives a person legal permission to practice a profession.