New Mexico LPN Programs

Browse our list of state approved LPN certification programs

A licensed practical nurse or vocational nurse is trained to take care of sick, injured and elderly people. They are supervised by a registered nurse, doctor or dentist. The LPN performs many routine tasks directly related to patient care. The LPN evaluates patient needs, changes dressings, implements care plans, takes blood pressure, pulse and temperature and collects lab samples. They may work with catheters, oxygen equipment and monitor intravenous lines. LPNs working in a small health clinic perform slightly different duties. These LPNs gives injections, schedule appointments, keep records and supervise medical assistants.

In nursing home settings LPNs routinely administer medications and supervise the nurse aides. Where there are twenty-four hour residents, LPNs work all types of shifts including weekends and holidays. Every facility and employer has different guidelines regarding work shifts and scheduling. Some nurses may work splits while others might work (3) 12-hour shifts straight and then enjoy 4 days off.

Desirable traits for potential LPNs include compassion, physical fitness, self-confidence, good judgment and decision-making skills. Practical nurses can be on their feet for extended periods of time while assisting patients and should be prepared to handle this. Mental health shouldn’t be overlooked either. Caring for the sick and elderly can be stressful and requires an emotionally sound individual to handle this responsibility.

There are at least thirteen accredited LPN schools in New Mexico. Many community and junior colleges offer qualified LPN training programs. New Mexico State University, Carlsbad and Dana Ana campuses also have practical nursing programs. In general, LPN programs contain two parts: classroom education and clinical training. Some classes can be taken in an online format. This can be advantageous for those who currently work during regular classroom hours. The clinical hands-on training must always take place in-person in a hospital or similar health care setting. Most full time programs take one year to complete. Upon completion the graduate can then take the National Council Licensure Exam to become a certified LPN.

The average LPN salary in New Mexico is $67,264 per year in 2024. In Roswell NM the average LPN salary is $72,396 per year. Alamogordo has a high average annual LPN salary of $79,779 in 2024. Average LPN salary in Santa Fe is $68,640 per year. The higher salaries are awarded according to number of years of experience, place of employment and advanced clinical certifications held.

List of LPN Programs in New Mexico (NM)

New Mexico LPN Schools

Our directory lists all New Mexico schools that currently offer approved practical nursing programs. The New Mexico state board of nursing is the regulatory organization in charge of approving LPN education programs. To gain approval, educational institutions must demonstrate to the board of nursing that their program sufficiently prepares students with the knowledge and skills expected of a licensed practical nurse. The on-going approval of a program depends largely upon their graduation rates and the NCLEX pass rates of their graduates. If a program starts to produce poor results in either of these two categories they can quickly lose their state approval or be placed on probationary approval status until their results improve.

Required LPN Classes in New Mexico

The specific course work required in practical nursing programs can differ from institution to institution. However, there are some subjects that are almost always included in most programs. Typical LPN classes include Anatomy & Physiology, Basic Nursing Skills, Nutrition, Math for Nurses, Psychology and Pharmacology. Topics covered within these subjects prepare students with the knowledge base required to perform the work of a licensed practical nurse.

How to Become an LPN in New Mexico

Start the process by researching available education programs to find one that suits your schedule and preferences. The next step is to enroll and complete an LPN training program that is approved by the New Mexico Board of Nursing. Most LPN programs take roughly one year to finish. Upon successful completion of all course requirements you are eligible to challenge the NCLEX-PN exam. After passing the test you can register with the state of New Mexico as a licensed practical nurse and begin searching for employment.