Emergency Department LPN Career Guide
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Overview
An Emergency Department Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) is a critical member of the healthcare team who provides essential care to patients in urgent and emergency situations. These professionals play a crucial role in stabilizing patients, administering medications and assisting in medical procedures within the fast-paced environment of an emergency department.
Essential Job Functions
Emergency Department LPN/LVNs are responsible for triaging patients, taking vital signs, administering medications, starting IV lines, assisting physicians with procedures, wound care, monitoring patients' conditions and providing emotional support to patients and their families during moments of crisis.
Education
To become an Emergency Department LPN/LVN, candidates need to complete a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, also called Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in California and Texas. These programs typically take around 12 to 18 months to complete and are offered by vocational schools, community colleges and technical institutions.
Qualifications
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Skills
Emergency Department LPN/LVNs must possess strong critical thinking skills to make rapid assessments and decisions, excellent communication skills to collaborate with the medical team and communicate with patients and their families and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Responsibilities
Emergency Department LPN/LVNs are responsible for assessing and prioritizing patients based on the severity of their condition, assisting in medical procedures such as intubations and wound suturing, administering medications, monitoring patients' vital signs, documenting patient information accurately and ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.
Salary Insights
The average salary for a Emergency Department LPN is $1,413.39 per week.
Last updated on March 3, 2025. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.
Pros & Cons
Becoming an Emergency Department LPN/LVN offers several benefits, including the opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, contribute to critical patient care and gain exposure to a wide range of medical conditions. The role also allows for personal and professional growth as LPN/LVNs develop strong decision-making skills and the ability to handle high-stress situations. However, the job can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring long hours and exposure to traumatic situations. It's important for individuals in this role to have the emotional resilience and coping mechanisms necessary to handle the challenges of emergency care.
Becoming an Emergency Department LPN/LVN is an admirable career choice for individuals who thrive in high-pressure environments and are dedicated to providing rapid and effective care to patients in critical situations. By completing an LPN/LVN program, obtaining licensure and gaining experience in emergency or critical care settings, aspiring Emergency Department LPN/LVNs can play a crucial
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