Are you hoping to become a practical nurse? Practical nursing is a rewarding and in-demand career path that combines compassion, clinical skill, and hands-on care. If you’re just getting started, it’s important to understand what the role entails, what the training requires, and what to expect on the job.
Here’s what you should know before pursuing this essential role in healthcare.
1. Understanding the Role of a Practical Nurse
First, let’s clarify what practical nursing involves. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are frontline healthcare professionals who work closely with registered nurses and physicians to deliver direct patient care. Their daily responsibilities can include:
- Taking vital signs
- Assisting with hygiene and mobility
- Administering medications
- Dressing wounds
- Documenting patient progress
- Offering emotional support to patients and families
One common question is about the difference between practical and registered nurse roles. While both are critical to patient care, RNs typically have more advanced education, broader responsibilities, and supervisory duties. However, LPNs are vital team members who provide essential care across various settings, from hospitals and clinics to long-term care facilities and private homes.
2. What You’ll Learn in a Practical Nursing Program
You must complete a recognized practical nursing program to become a licensed practical nurse in Canada. This typically leads to a practical nursing diploma, which includes classroom instruction and supervised clinical practice.
Topics covered in a practical nurse training often include:
- Human anatomy and physiology
- Health promotion and illness prevention
- Professional ethics and communication
- Clinical skills and patient care techniques
Programs like the one offered at Discovery Community College focus on small class sizes and hands-on learning to prepare students thoroughly. You’ll gain real-world experience in a variety of healthcare settings, supported by experienced instructors who understand the demands of the field.
After graduation, you’ll need to pass a licensing exam such as the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE) or the Regulatory Exam – Practical Nurse (REx-PN), depending on your province.
3. What to Expect From Your Career as a Practical Nurse
Once you’ve become a practical nurse, you can look forward to a stable and fulfilling career. The practical nursing salary in Canada varies depending on location and experience, but the average wage ranges from $27 to $37 per hour in British Columbia. With healthcare needs growing across the country, LPNs remain in high demand.
Job opportunities include roles in:
- Hospitals and acute care settings
- Long-term care facilities
- Community health centres
- Home healthcare agencies
- Physician and specialist clinics
The emotional rewards of practical nursing are just as significant as the financial benefits. You’ll play a key role in improving patients’ quality of life, offering care, comfort, and support when most needed.
Are You Ready to Become a Practical Nurse?
Choosing to become a practical nurse is a big decision, but with the right preparation, it can be one of the most meaningful careers you’ll ever pursue. At Discovery Community College, our practical nurse training gives students the skills, confidence, and experience they need to succeed. Whether you’re changing careers or just starting out, our nursing school is here to support your journey from day one.
If you’re ready to take the first step, contact Discovery Community College today to learn more about our practical nursing diploma and how to get started to become a licensed practical nurse.
Are you ready to begin a rewarding career at our nursing school?
Contact DCC for more information.