Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are an essential part of the healthcare system. They provide basic care to patients under the direction of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians.
The Role of LPNs in the Healthcare System
LPNs typically provide basic nursing care, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, changing dressings, and monitoring patients’ health status. They also provide emotional support to patients and their families and communicate with other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive comprehensive care.
The Settings in Which LPNs Work
LPNs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home healthcare agencies. They may also work in schools, correctional facilities, and other community-based organizations.
Specific duties may vary depending on the setting in which they work. For example, an LPN working in a hospital may have a more specialized role, such as working in a specific department like the emergency room. Meanwhile an LPN working in a nursing home may be responsible for providing care to a group of residents.
Salary Expectations for LPNs in Arkansas
The average salary for LPNs in Arkansas is $41,570 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, salaries can vary depending on the specific employer, location, and level of experience.
LPNs who work in hospitals or government agencies tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in long-term care facilities or home healthcare agencies.
Additionally, LPNs who have advanced certifications or specialized training may also earn higher salaries.
Demographics of LPNs in Arkansas
According to the Arkansas Board of Nursing, there are currently over 9,000 LPNs licensed in the state.
The majority of LPNs in Arkansas are female, with approximately 85% of LPNs identifying as female and 15% identifying as male.
The average age of an LPN in Arkansas is 43 years old, and the average years of experience as an LPN is 9.5 years.
List of LPN Schools in Arkansas
There are several accredited LPN programs available throughout the state. Here is a list of LPN schools in Arkansas:
University of Arkansas - Hope-Texarkana
NCLEX graduation rate: 100%
Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas
NCLEX graduation rate: 100%
Arkansas State University - Newport
NCLEX graduation rate: 97.22%
North Arkansas College
NCLEX graduation rate: 97.14%
Arkansas Northeastern College
NCLEX graduation rate: 96.55%
National Park College
NCLEX graduation rate: 95.45%
Ozarka College
NCLEX graduation rate: 95.24%
Arkansas State University - Beebe
NCLEX graduation rate: 95.12%
University of Arkansas - Cossatot
NCLEX graduation rate: 88.89%
Southeast Arkansas College
NCLEX graduation rate: 94.12%
It’s important to note that tuition costs may vary depending on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student, and some LPN programs may have additional fees, such as for textbooks or clinicals.
Additionally, NCLEX graduation rates can be a helpful indicator of the quality of an LPN program, as it shows the percentage of students who successfully pass the licensing exam on their first attempt.