A LPN (licensed practical nurse) gives basic patient care under the supervision of an RN or doctor. Typical duties include checking vital signs, giving medications, changing bandages, helping patients eat, bathe, and dress, documenting care, and reporting changes in a patient’s condition.

What they do

  • Monitor blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and breathing.
  • Help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility.
  • Change dressings, insert catheters, and collect specimens in some settings.
  • Give certain medications and injections, depending on state rules and facility policy.
  • Record patient information and communicate updates to the care team.

Where they work

LPNs work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, rehab centers, and home care settings, and their exact duties can vary by location and state law.

In simple terms

An LPN is the nurse who keeps day-to-day care moving: checking on patients, handling routine clinical tasks, and making sure the RN or doctor knows if something changes.

TL;DR: An LPN provides hands-on basic nursing care, supports patients with daily needs, gives some medications, and reports patient changes to the rest of the healthcare team.