If you have a strong desire to help older adults, then working in a senior living community as a licensed practical nurse may be the perfect career choice for you.
When you join our team at The Kensington White Plains, you’ll work in a supportive and collaborative environment and help seniors live a high quality of life.
Using current methods and techniques, such as the Positive Approach to Care, you’ll ensure that seniors’ basic care needs are met and that they’re mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy.
Learn more about licensed practical nurses, the benefits of working in a senior living community, and how to join a team that feels like family.
What is an LPN?
A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care to patients or residents.
LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. They perform tasks such as:
- Taking vital signs
- Administering medications
- Inserting catheters
- Assisting residents with hygiene, grooming, and eating
LPNs play an essential role in the healthcare system and may work with a wide range of patients, including the elderly, children, and those with memory disease or chronic illnesses.
To become an LPN, you must complete an approved LPN education program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
What skills do LPNs need?
There are various skills that are important for licensed practical nurses to possess to be successful in their careers.
Communication
LPNs need to be able to communicate effectively with residents, families, and other healthcare professionals.
This includes being able to listen to residents’ concerns and explain medical procedures and treatments in a way that is easy to understand.
Attention to detail
These nurses need to be detail-oriented to accurately perform tasks such as administering medications and taking vital signs.
You should also notice changes in a resident’s emotional, mental, or physical health.
Empathy
All nurses must show compassion and understanding towards our residents, as they may be dealing with physical and emotional changes.
Physical stamina
This position requires standing for long periods of time, lifting, and moving residents, and performing tasks that require physical dexterity.
Problem-solving
LPNs need to be able to think on their feet and use critical thinking skills to solve problems and make decisions.
Time management
There are often many tasks for LPNs to complete in a short time, so it’s important for them to be able to prioritize and manage their time effectively.
Interpersonal skills
LPNs need to work well with others as part of a healthcare team. This includes collaborating with other healthcare professionals and building positive relationships with residents and their families.
How do I become a licensed practical nurse?
You must meet certain requirements to enroll in a practical nursing program.
You will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and particular prerequisites, such as classes in biology and math.
Once you’ve met the requirements, you can enroll in an approved practical nursing program education program.
These programs are typically offered at vocational schools, community colleges, and some universities and will take about one year to complete.
You’ll receive classroom instruction and clinical experience to prepare you for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
The NCLEX-PN is a standardized exam that tests your knowledge of nursing practices and principles. Upon passing the exam, you can apply for your certification.
Opportunities for LPN career advancement
There are various opportunities for LPNs to advance their careers and take on more responsibility within the healthcare field.
LPNs can pursue additional certifications in specialized areas of nursing, such as gerontology, pediatrics, or hospice care. They may also consider returning to school to earn a bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN), which can open up new job opportunities, such as working as a registered nurse.
Overall, there are many ways for LPNs to advance their careers and take on new challenges within the healthcare field.
With hard work, dedication, and a commitment to continuing education, LPNs can find fulfilling and rewarding career paths that allow them to grow and be successful.
If you join our team at The Kensington White Plains, you can use the education and experience you have already obtained while learning and growing with us.
The benefits of being an LPN in a senior living community
Licensed practical nursing in a senior living community like The Kensington White Plains can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for those passionate about providing healthcare to older adults.
When you choose to work in this setting, you can make a difference in the lives of seniors, their caregivers, and their families.
Other benefits of being an LPN in a senior living community include:
- Career advancement opportunities
- Competitive pay
- Flexible schedules
- Job security
- Personal fulfillment and growth
The Kensington White Plains, where team members feel like family
The Kensington White Plains is an enhanced assisted living and memory care community that offers specialized Alzheimer’s care, dementia care, and Parkinson’s disease care.
We offer our residents exquisite dining services, life-enrichment activities, on-site rehabilitation services, and high-acuity care.
To ensure our resident’s and our team’s health and happiness, we live by Our Promise to love and care for our residents and team as we do our own family.
If you are interested in joining a team that works together and feels like family, we may be the perfect fit for you.
We offer the following benefits to our employees:
- Competitive salaries
- Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K & other Benefits starting at 30 hrs/wk
- Full-time and Part-time Position
- Employee Assistance Program
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Complimentary Lunches & Dinners
Contact us or check out our blog to learn more about our communities, residents, employment and volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events.