Licensed Vocational Nurse - LVN Salary

Working under the guidance of doctors and registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses (LVNs, also called LPNs in some states) are an important part of the health care team that cares for patients who are disabled, injured, convalescent, or ill. LVNs are sometimes also called licensed practical nurses, or LPNs.

Training and Advancement

Completing a training program approved by the state in which you want to practice is the first step in becoming an LVN. These programs are available at technical and vocational schools, junior colleges, universities, and hospitals. The aspiring vocational nurse must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination to become licensed. LVNs working in some areas, like nursing home care, often have the opportunity to advance to charge nurses where they manage nursing aides and other LVNs.

LVN Salary

The median annual LVN salary was $39,820 in 2009, but the top earners made over $55,000 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Factors Affecting LVN Salary

• Work experience: LVNs who have considerable experience in the field are likely to receive salaries in the higher end of the pay scale.
• Employment setting: LVNS working for employment services on average make the most at $46,190 per year. Top employers such as nursing care facilities and general hospitals paid slightly less, at $42,320 and $39,980 per year, respectively.

Employment Outlook for LVNs

The job prospects for LVNs are expected to grow rapidly over the next several years, according to the BLS. The best opportunities and highest salaries will likely be in employment services and nursing homes.