Wisconsin LPN Programs

Browse our list of state approved LPN certification programs

Becoming an LPN in Wisconsin prepares the individual for a career as a health care provider engaging in direct interaction with patients on a daily basis. The work performed by an LPN is extremely involved and requires strong attention to detail. Practical nurses monitor patients and record their conditions, including any changes in their condition. These reports are used by doctors and nurses to formulate specific care plans and devise treatment methods to help the patient. The consistent measuring of progress and patient condition is also used to evaluate the different treatment methods used and can lead to changes being made in the care plan. Therefore, the observations and detailed reporting done by the practical nurse plays a role in eventual patient outcomes.

Practical nurses are trained to treat all types of patients including children, elderly, injured, ill, or those suffering from certain health conditions or diseases. While they are not expected to be experts in each type of disease or condition, they are expected to be expert care takers and ensure that patients remain as comfortable as possible during their stay. They are also in charge of maintaining the overall patient environment, making sure it is safe, clean/sterilized and comfortable.

Health care delivery is usually performed as a team effort where doctors, nurses, facility staff, janitors, chefs, LPNs and nurse aides come together to provide the most comprehensive care possible. Being an LPN includes working productively as part of a health care team and communicating effectively with the other team members. LPNs are frequently called upon to assist doctors or nurses in small-medium medical procedures, basic surgeries and other operations. LPNs must possess a working knowledge of common medical terminology and use of medical equipment to be fully functional members of the team.

For LPNs who wish to further their careers there are a number of options. Remaining in the nursing field, LPNs can pursue an RN designation through an approved LPN-RN transition program, ADN program, BSN degree program or diploma RN program. Becoming an RN will give the individual a higher level of job duties and responsibilities, increase their nursing knowledge and enable them to earn higher wages. If an LPN wanted a higher level career position as an LPN they can pursue a Charge Nurse position where they would be in charge of managing or overseeing a handful of LPNs. These positions typically require several years of LPN experience in a variety of different areas.

List of LPN Programs in Wisconsin (WI)

Wisconsin LPN Schools

Our directory lists all Wisconsin schools that currently offer approved practical nursing programs. The Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin

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 Wisconsin

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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin as a licensed practical nurse and begin searching for employment.