The LP/VN is prepared to function as a member of the health-care team by exercising sound nursing judgment based on preparation, knowledge, skills, understanding and past experiences in nursing situations. The licensed practical/vocational nurse does a large share of the direct patient care in health facilities today. The LP/VN participates in the planning, implementation and evaluation of nursing care in all settings where nursing takes place. Generally this means providing for the emotional and physical comfort and safety of patients; observing, recording and reporting to appropriate persons, changes in patients' symptoms and conditions; performing more specialized nursing functions such as administering medications and therapeutic treatments; and assisting with rehabilitation.

In the hospital setting duties may include taking and recording temperature, blood pressure, pulse and respiration rate; dressing wounds; observing patients and reporting adverse reactions or altered conditions; administering medications, noting time and amount on patients' charts; assembling and using such equipment as catheters, tracheotomy tubes, oxygen supplies, recording food and fluid intake and output; applying compresses, hot and cold packs, bathing, dressing and assisting patients in walking and turning; performing normal range of motion exercises with patients; collecting routine laboratory specimen; starting and checking on IV equipment.

Salaries for Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses generally range from $15,000 to $33,000 with the average salary falling in the low $20,000's. Large metropolitan hospitals tend to pay more than nursing homes, and those with more experience will receive a higher salary

Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses are utilized in every component of the health care delivery system, including: