As a nursing student, it is vital to develop the fundamental knowledge and skills essential to pursuing a career in the nursing field. The healthcare industry continues to evolve, and extensive education will prepare me with the tools needed to attain a position as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Since childhood, I have fostered a deep passion for helping the elderly and sick. Thus, following the path to become an LPN was always been a main career goal. Through education and training, professional development and networking, I will be able to grow professionally and gain even more knowledge and access into the nursing field. Essentially, developing an organized and strategic career plan will guide me on the right path to a successful future in nursing.
In order to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN), there are specific steps that one must follow. The first step involves obtaining a degree in a nursing program. An associate’s degree in nursing from an accredited educational institute will be essential to provide me with the fundamental knowledge and hands-on training in nursing. For instance, The Accreditation Commission For Education in Nursing (ACEN) is a nationally-recognized accrediting body that covers many nursing programs. Thus, ensuring that the preferred educational institute is accredited is extremely important in order to obtain a degree. An LPN program usually takes about two to three years to complete, and it will include courses in biology, anatomy, nutrition and career development courses in nursing that will prepare me for a career as an LPN. Thus, making sure to research quality educational institutions that provide hands-on training in LPN programs is essential to ensure that one will develop the right skills and knowledge to effectively pursue a career in nursing. Ultimately, obtaining a degree from an accredited LPN nursing program is the important first step towards the nursing career path.
Certification is the next step on the career path to become an LPN. After obtaining a degree from an accredited nursing program, I will need to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Certification will provide me with the necessary qualification to pursue a career as an LPN in my state. As a licensed practical nurse (LPN), I will work under the guidance of registered nurses (RN) caring for sick and disabled people. Thus, internships and volunteer work at local clinics will prepare me with the skills and hands-on training in the field such as administering blood draws and injections, checking vital signs, and accurately recording patient information. Also cleaning medical equipment and areas is key to maintaining a clean and functional workspace and ensuring proper hygiene and care for patients. My goal is to work in a local clinic to assist women, children and men in my community, and promote healthier lifestyles.
Although it is important to obtain quality education and hands-on training in the nursing field, professional development and networking is equally important. Thus, I plan to join a professional nursing organization to continue to grow in the field and develop professional networks that will be beneficial to help me move up in the industry. According to Borhani, Jalai, Abbaszadeh, Haghdoost, (2014), “nursing embeds a professional dignity that is to be continually constructed and re-constructed, reflected on, demonstrated and has to be updated regularly according to the dynamics of the society in which we are immersed” (p. 3). Thus, joining a professional organization such as The Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN) will help to expand my knowledge of nursing in different health care areas. The ARN has a specific mission to ensure the overall long-term health care of disabled and cancer patients. Recognized as a specialty nursing organization by the American Nurses Association, the organization’s goal is to provide support to individuals and families who experienced chronic illnesses and disabilities. It also provides professional development and networking opportunities for aspiring nurses.
Essentially, nursing is a rewarding career experience. With quality education, skills and hands-on training, I will be able to obtain a career as an LPN. Also, through volunteer work, I can help others and give back to the community, which is my passion. Professional development and networking will allow me to connect with other medical professionals, gain more insight into the field, and develop a network that will help to support and guide me in the right direction. Thus, as I continue my career journey in nursing, I have aspirations to move up in the field and become a registered nurse. This will require going back to school to obtain more education in the field and hands-on training needed to take this next step on my career path. Essentially, a career plan will serve as a guide to help me make informed decisions and bring me one step closer to collegiate and career success in nursing.
- Borhani, F., Jalai, T., Abbaszadeh, A., Haghdoost, A. (2014). Nurse’s perception of ethical
climate and organizational commitment. Nursing Ethics, 21 (3), 278-288. Web.
EBSCOhost.
- News of Rehabilitation Nurses. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.rehabnurse.org.
