The changing face of the American workforce: Modern-day vocational nursing
The book “Success in Practical/Vocational Nursing,” by Signe S. Hill and Helen A. Howlett, offers a brief look at the history of vocational (or practical) nurses. The authors explain that for as long as humanity has existed in a civilized capacity, there have been those who fill the roles of practical nurses. They might have been called attendants, midwifes, wet nurses or self-proclaimed nurses, but their duties usually involved caring for the ill, injured, dying or pregnant. There is still a big need for practical nurses, but there is also a big need for LPNs/LVNs to continue their education with the potential of becoming registered nurses.
The role of a vocational nurse in today’s society
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that usually a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) is responsible for providing bedside care to patients who are ill or convalescing. LVN duties could include monitoring catheters, recording vital signs, giving injections or enemas and keeping patients comfortable (including help with bathing and toileting when necessary). Many LVNs work in nursing homes.
The responsibilities of a vocational nurse
LVNs often do not have to make very many medical decisions. In most cases, they are given plans developed by doctors or RNs, and their job is simply to follow the plans. There are some cases, though, where the duties of an experienced LVN will involve assisting doctors or RNs. In a nursing home, an experienced LVN might also rise to a supervisor status, in which case his or her duties would include overseeing other LVNs, assistants and orderlies.
Job prospects and outlook
As Hill and Howlett pointed out, society has always felt a need for vocational nurses and probably always will. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of LVNs is expected to grow “much faster than average.” This equates to a total growth of approximately 21 percent between 2008 and 2018. The agency cites an aging population as one reason for this projected growth and also notes that as technology advances, many procedures that were once only performed in hospitals can now be done in clinics or physicians' offices. LVNs might be able to assist with these procedures.
LVN-to-BSN programs
Though job prospects for LVNs are predicted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to be “very good,” the employment prospects for registered nurses are estimated to be “excellent.” With anticipated employment growth of 22 percent, the field of registered nursing is one of the few projected to outpace that of vocational nursing between 2008 and 2018.
Registered nurses also have more responsibilities than vocational nurses, which, for some people, could lead to a more challenging and fulfilling career. LVNs who are interested in career advancement can seek out a specialized LVN-to-BSN nursing program, where they can increase their professional advancement by seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Such programs are specially designed to build on knowledge that LVNs already possess and often culminate in an opportunity to sit for the licensure exam for registered nurses.
