If you want a medical career helping others that is both rewarding and in demand, you may want consider becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in a nursing home.

LPNs work in hospitals, doctors’ offices, other healthcare facilities—and nursing homes. Did you know that there are more than 2.5 million people living in nursing homes or assisted living facilities in the U.S.? There are also more than 15,000 nursing homes across the country and more than a third of LPNs find work in nursing homes and residential facilities. Maybe that’s why LPNs are needed at nursing homes. And during the coronavirus pandemic when millions of people lost their jobs, LPNs in nursing homes were considered to be essential workers. They stayed on the job, helping others, and doing fulfilling work.

Tangible Rewards of Working in a Nursing Home as an LPN

With all those nursing homes and residents, there are tangible rewards to being an LPN in a nursing home. Job security and benefits top the list. LPN jobs are expected to increase much faster than average through 2028. As a full-time LPN, you can expect healthcare benefits, sick time, and even paid time off. If you work part-time, you may have more flexibility and time to spend with your family. Your job as an LPN in a nursing home will also keep you physically active. You’ll spend much of your time moving around and helping residents do some moving of their own.

Intangible Rewards of Working in a Nursing Home as an LPN

If you want a career helping others, that will be the number one reward of being an LPN in a nursing home. Here are some other ways you might find the role of an LPN to be very rewarding:

• You make a real difference in the lives of others: For the residents of a nursing home, you may be the person they spend the most time with; someone they look forward to seeing. Unlike a hospital setting where you see many patients, briefly, at a nursing home you may get to know your patients over months, and even years. You take care of them, and also help them communicate their needs to staff and doctors. You matter!
• You’re appreciated by families: Nursing homes often aren’t the first choice for the elderly. Family members worry about the care their elderly relatives will receive. When they see a hard-working, caring LPN like you, looking after their loved ones, they are thankful and appreciative.
• You’re part of a healthcare team: You can take pride as a worker in the healthcare industry, being part of a team that serves patients and residents.
• You get to work with history teachers: No, the residents of nursing homes aren’t all teachers! But they have lived long lives and can impart their wisdom to you. Listen and learn!

Do You Have What It Takes to Work as a Nurse in a Nursing Home?

IIf you like meeting people from all walks of life and think you could help the elderly with their daily living needs, a career as an LPN in a nursing home could be the right one for you. You’ll care for your patients and be a great listener with lots of compassion. You will be playing a very important part in delivering services to those who need it most.

Nursing Programs: A Foundation for Success

At Porter and Chester Institute, you can train as a Practical Nurse and prepare to take the licensing exam in Connecticut in as little as 15 months. Want to find out more? To take the next step for a rewarding, patient-focused nursing career, please fill out the form or give us a call at 800-870-6789.