Shape the Future of Patient Care
Southwestern Illinois College’s Practical Nursing program prepares students with the basic skills necessary to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Practical Nurses:
- Work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician
- Help patients or residents perform basic daily activities
- Provide basic bedside care for the sick, injured and convalescent.
- Give injections, take vital signs, collect samples, perform diagnostic tests, and dress wounds.
- Administer medication and report status of the patient.
Employment opportunities
LPNs work in a variety of settings including:
- Long-term care facilities
- Home health
- Doctor offices
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
For further information regarding the field of sonography, please go to the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Career Outlook
Explore Your Career Path
According to U.S. Department of Labor 2024-34 Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of licensed practical nurses is expected to grow by 3 percent, much faster than the average for all occupations
Career Information
Salary
Job Outlook
Salary
MEDIAN INCOME
$47,960-$62,340
Employment
PROJECTION INCREASE
3%
Hourly and salary ranges can vary dependent on hiring facility and demographics.
The median annual wage for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses was $62,340 in May 2024.
The U.S. Department of Labor 2024-34 Occupational Outlook Handbook projects employment of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034.
