A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who provides basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. LPNs work closely with RNs and physicians to provide patients with basic nursing care, such as monitoring patients, taking patient vital signs and histories, performing routine assessments, changing bandages, inserting IVs or catheters, listening to patients’ concerns, ensuring patients are comfortable, and helping patients bathe or dress. LPNs also maintain a clear line of communication between a patient, their family, and their caregivers, and educate patients families on how best to take care of their loved ones. LPNs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including nursing homes, home healthcare, hospitals, physicians’ offices, military, correctional facilities, travel, and rehabilitation centers. LPNs must have strong organizational skills, a tolerance for blood and bodily fluids, and the ability to multitask and manage information. LPNs cannot diagnose any medical condition or prescribe any medication, but they can handle most of the routine tasks of day-to-day medical care. LPNs must complete an LPN program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) to obtain their license and begin working in their field. LPNs can also pursue further education and certifications to work in certain fields, such as IV therapy or neonatal care, or to become RNs.