These standards provide for alternate forms of continuing education such as academic studies, in-service education, institutes, seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops, extension studies and home programs. Though not always, schools often require a personal interview, a physical exam, malpractice insurance, and personal references. Vocational nursing programs must have at least 1,530 hours of study and practice for at least 46 weeks. The course includes classroom instruction, lab experience and patient care. Intravenous certification must be gotten after licensing.
Pay is higher in acute care hospitals and in the big city areas.
A salary of 10-15 percent more is paid for evening or night shift. Many patients need 24-hour care, so LVNs may work different shifts. Acute care hospitals and other health care agencies usually offer LVNs a 40-hour weekly schedule. Part-time work is also available. New employees often have to start on the evening or night shift.