All states require L.P.N.'s to pass a licensing examination after completing a state-approved practical nursing program. A high school diploma is usually required for entry, but some programs accept people without a diploma. No prior work experience is required. The individual must acquire a license to be qualified for this occupation.
Clinical practice is usually in a hospital, but sometimes includes other settings.
As part of a health care team they should be able to follow orders and work under close supervision. They generally work 40 hours a week, but often this includes some nights, weekends, and holidays. Employment of LPN's is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through 2008 in response to the long-term care needs of a rapidly growing population of very old people and to the general growth of health care.