Training , Other Qualifications, and Advancement 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. In 1993, approximately 1,098 State-approved programs provided practical nursing training. Almost 6 out of 10 students were enrolled in technical or vocational schools, while 3 out of 10 were in community and junior colleges. Others were in high schools, hospitals, and colleges and universities.
Clinical practice is usually in a hospital, but sometimes includes other settings.
L.P.N.'s should have a caring, sympathetic nature. They should be emotionally stable because work with the sick and injured can be stressful. As part of a health care team, they must be able to follow orders and work under close supervision. Job Outlook Job prospects for L.P.N.'s are expected to be good if the current balance between jobs and job seekers continues. Over the past few years, the number of graduates from L.P.N. training programs has increased in pace with the need for additional workers.