Wisconsin, WI | LPN Nursing Program Information

How to Become a Wisconsin Licensed Practical Nurse

LPN programs in Wisconsin don’t all have the same entrance requirements, but generally require an entrance examination and/or a few prerequisite courses in topics like math, medical terminology, biology, and psychology—high school graduation or GED are mandatory. The programs usually last between eight months and one year, and students learn how to care for patients through courses on assessment, treatment and more, which take place in a classroom and also a hands-on clinical setting. The main goal thrust of the course work is to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN examination. After graduating, students must apply to the Wisconsin Department of Regulations and Licensing, to whom they pay a $90 fee and $10 if they want a temporary permit to work while awaiting exam results. It is important to note that some criminal convictions can stand in the way of licensure—it is best to check with a school before entering if this situation applies to you. The test is then taken through Pearson Vue for $200, and results issued within ten business days. Over 90 percent of graduates pass their first try—it is possible to take the exam up to three times—and begin working as a Wisconsin LPN.

Wisconsin Licensed Practical Nurse Salary, Hours and Duties

Licensed Practical Nurses who work in Wisconsin cities like Milwaukee or Green Bay can expect to make between $37,500 and $45,000 per year (according to BLS.gov), with a median income around $41,000 annually. Their most common employer is hospitals, where upwards of 80 percent of working LPNs can be found. However, Wisconsin retirement homes, doctor’s offices, clinics, and other private facilities also employ LPNs.

Normal duties for a Licensed Practical Nurse revolve around direct patient care. They watch patient health and report directly back to Registered Nurses and doctors, who in turn give them direction on administering medicine and other duties that fit into a plan of care such as feeding and bathing patients—indeed, they are on the front line as part of a patient care team. The hours required of LPNs can vary, but full time LPNs may be asked to work at any time of the day or night—with a limited supply of nurses versus the current need, they may even be asked to work overtime, and patient care is a 24 hour a day endeavor.