Career

Best Home Health Lpn Schools 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming a Home Health LPN, including salary, schools, and programs.

Explore Home Health LPN Schools (2024)

Looking to start your journey as a Home Health LPN? Finding the right education is key. Here's a curated list of schools offering quality Home Health LPN programs:

  • We've identified top institutions known for excellent Home Health LPN education.
  • Options include both local schools and nationally recognized programs.
  • Each listing highlights relevant degree programs for aspiring Home Health LPN professionals.
  • You'll also find information on related career paths in the field.

Browse through these options to find a program that aligns with your career goals in the Home Health LPN industry.

Top Home Health LPN Schools in the U.S. (2024)

#1Marion County

Ivy Tech Community College

Indianapolis, IN

In-State Tuition:$4,487
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,777
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:89,705
#2Alameda County

Unitek College

Fremont, CA

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:77%
Total Enrollment:4,857
#3Virginia Beach City

ECPI University

Virginia Beach, VA

In-State Tuition:$17,424
Out-of-State Tuition:$17,424
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:51%
Total Enrollment:11,740
#4San Mateo County

Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts

San Mateo, CA

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:71%
Total Enrollment:2,668
#5Kenosha County

Gateway Technical College

Kenosha, WI

In-State Tuition:$4,304
Out-of-State Tuition:$6,455
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:9,881
#6Cook County

Moraine Valley Community College

Palos Hills, IL

In-State Tuition:$7,776
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,096
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:34%
Total Enrollment:10,511

Home Health LPN Required Education (2024)

To become a Home Health LPN, you will need to meet specific educational requirements. Here is a breakdown of the minimum and advanced education options available to you.

Minimum Education Requirements

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: You must have a high school diploma or GED before enrolling in a practical nursing program.
  • Practical Nursing Program: You need to complete a state-approved practical nursing program, which typically lasts about one year. These programs can be found in various settings, including:
    • Community colleges
    • Technical schools
    • Vocational schools

Advanced Education Options

  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): While not required, an ADN can provide a more in-depth understanding of nursing principles and expand your career opportunities. These programs typically take two years and include both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Pursuing a BSN is an option for those seeking to advance their career beyond the LPN role. This four-year degree offers broader training in nursing, leadership, and healthcare management. Some ADN programs may offer a bridge to a BSN, facilitating the transition for LPNs to become registered nurses (RNs).

Consider your long-term career goals and the educational pathway that aligns with those objectives when choosing your educational route.

Home Health LPN Professional Certifications & Licenses (2024)

To work as a Home Health LPN, you must obtain specific certifications and licenses. Here are the key requirements you need to fulfill:

  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) License:

    • You must complete an accredited practical nursing program.
    • Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

  • CPR and First Aid Certification:

    • Certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid is typically required.
    • Many employers prefer certifications from recognized organizations like the American Heart Association.

  • Medication Administration Certification (if required by your state or employer):

    • Some states require additional training or certification for administering medications.
    • Check with your state’s nursing board for specific requirements.

  • Home Health Aide Certification:

    • In some regions, additional training or certification in home health aide skills might be beneficial, though it may not be strictly required.

  • Continuing Education:

    • Many states require LPNs to complete continuing education courses to maintain their license.
    • Staying updated on best practices in home health care through ongoing education can enhance your qualifications.

Before starting your career, ensure you check your state’s specific licensing requirements as they can vary significantly across different states.

Job Duties for Home Health LPNs

  • Administer prescribed medications or start intravenous fluids, noting times and amounts on patients' charts.

  • Measure and record patients' vital signs, such as height, weight, temperature, blood pressure, pulse, or respiration.

  • Observe patients, charting and reporting changes in patients' conditions, such as adverse reactions to medication or treatment, and taking any necessary action.

Technologies and Skills Used by Home Health LPNs

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft Exchange
  • Microsoft Outlook

Medical software

  • Epic Systems
  • eClinicalWorks EHR software

Video conferencing software

  • FaceTime
  • Zoom

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Changing what is done based on other people's actions
  • Looking for ways to help people

Home Health LPN Internships, Apprenticeships & Practical Training

As a Home Health LPN, gaining practical experience is essential to preparing for your role in patient care. Several opportunities can provide you with valuable hands-on training and exposure to real-world scenarios. Explore the following options to enhance your skills and knowledge in the home health setting:

  • Internships through Healthcare Facilities
    Many hospitals and healthcare organizations offer internship programs specifically designed for nursing students and graduates. These internships typically involve:

    • Assisting registered nurses in patient care and activities of daily living.
    • Gaining experience in documentation and patient assessment.
    • Exposure to different specialties in home health settings.

  • State and Local Health Departments
    Some state and local health departments provide internship opportunities focusing on community health. These programs often include:

    • Working alongside public health nurses to address community health needs.
    • Participating in health education initiatives.
    • Engaging in outreach and support for home-bound patients.

  • Community Health Centers
    Many community health centers offer practical training opportunities for LPNs specializing in home care. Benefits include:

    • Opportunities to deliver care in a variety of settings, including patient homes.
    • Learning about care management and coordination of services for patients with chronic illnesses.
    • Engaging with multidisciplinary teams to improve health outcomes.

  • Apprenticeship Programs
    Apprenticeship programs are growing in popularity and can be a great way to gain experience while earning a wage. These programs typically involve:

    • A combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
    • Pairing with a licensed nurse to learn hands-on skills in a supervised environment.
    • Opportunities to rotate through different areas within home health services, including hospice care, pediatrics, and geriatric care.

  • Partnerships with Educational Institutions
    Some nursing schools partner with home health agencies to provide internships or externships. These opportunities allow you to:

    • Apply classroom knowledge in real-life scenarios under the guidance of experienced LPNs.
    • Gain exposure to regulatory requirements and patient documentation processes.
    • Develop communication skills essential for patient and family interactions in home health contexts.

  • Volunteer Opportunities
    Volunteering with organizations focused on home care can also provide meaningful experience. This can include:

    • Assisting with non-medical tasks, which helps you develop a rapport with patients and understand their needs.
    • Learning about the operations of home health agencies and how support systems are structured.

Through these internships, apprenticeships, and training programs, you will build a solid foundation of practical skills and experience that will significantly benefit your career as a Home Health LPN.

Home Health LPN Continuing Education & Professional Development (2024)

As a Home Health LPN, it’s important to pursue ongoing education and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career. Various opportunities exist to help you stay current with industry standards and improve your clinical competencies.

Certification Programs

  • Certified Home Health LPN (CHHLPN): This certification demonstrates your specialized knowledge and skills in home health care.
  • Medication Administration Certification: Completing a course in medication management can broaden your responsibilities and enhance patient safety.

Specialized Training

  • Wound Care Management: Pursuing training in wound care allows you to effectively assess and manage patient wounds, a critical component of home health care.
  • Palliative and Hospice Care: Training in palliative care equips you with the skills needed to provide compassionate care for patients with serious illnesses.

Advanced Education

  • Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): If you currently hold a diploma, pursuing an ADN can prepare you for greater responsibilities and potential advancement.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Earning a BSN opens up further career options and leadership roles.

Workshops and Seminars

  • Participate in workshops and seminars related to home health care. These can provide updates on new technologies, best practices, and regulatory changes impacting home health services.

Online Courses

  • Numerous online platforms offer courses tailored to home health professionals. These courses can be flexible, allowing you to learn at your own pace while balancing your work responsibilities.

Professional Organizations

  • Join organizations such as the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) or the National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN). Membership often provides access to continued education resources, networking opportunities, and industry publications.

Networking Opportunities

  • Attend industry conferences to network with other professionals, gain insights into emerging trends, and exchange best practices with peers.

Mentorship Programs

  • Seek out mentorship opportunities within your workplace or local nursing community. An experienced mentor can provide guidance, support, and valuable career advice.

Staying engaged in continuing education and professional development is vital for enhancing your skills and expanding your career prospects in the field of home health care.

What To Look For When Deciding On Campus vs Online Degree Programs for Home Health LPNs (2024)

When considering education options for becoming a Home Health LPN, both online and campus-based programs offer unique advantages and challenges. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed choice based on your personal learning style, schedule, and career goals.

Online Programs

  • Flexibility: Online programs allow you to study at your own pace, making them ideal if you have a busy schedule or other responsibilities. You can usually access coursework at any time, fitting it around your commitments.

  • Accessibility: With online education, you can enroll in programs offered by institutions located anywhere in the country, giving you a wider range of options to choose from.

  • Self-Discipline: Online learning requires a higher level of self-motivation and time management skills. You must be proactive in completing assignments and participating in discussions.

  • Technology Requirements: You will need a reliable computer and internet connection. Familiarity with digital platforms and online tools is essential for success in your studies.

  • Limited Hands-On Experience: While online programs will provide theoretical knowledge, they may offer fewer opportunities for hands-on clinical experience. You will need to find local facilities for required clinical hours.

Campus-Based Programs

  • Structured Learning Environment: Campus programs provide a more traditional educational setting with scheduled classes and direct access to instructors, which can be beneficial if you prefer face-to-face learning.

  • Immediate Support: In-person training allows for spontaneous questions and immediate feedback from instructors and peers, which can enhance understanding and retention of course material.

  • Clinical Experience: Many campus-based programs include hands-on clinical experience built into the curriculum, often on-site at local health facilities. This hands-on training is critical for developing practical skills.

  • Networking Opportunities: Attending an in-person program facilitates connections with faculty, fellow students, and local healthcare professionals, potentially benefiting future job opportunities.

  • Limited Flexibility: Traditional campus programs usually operate on a set schedule, making it less accommodating for those with jobs or family obligations.

Conclusion of Comparison

Choosing between online and campus-based LPN programs ultimately depends on your learning preferences, personal circumstances, and career aspirations. Whichever path you decide to pursue, ensure that the program you choose is accredited and meets state requirements for licensure as an LPN.

Home Health LPN Typical Career Path (2024)

As you begin your journey in the field of home health nursing as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you will typically progress through the following career stages:

Entry-Level Positions

  • Home Health LPN: This is your starting role after completing your LPN education and passing the NCLEX-PN exam. In this position, you will provide basic nursing care to patients in their homes, including monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and assisting with daily living activities.

  • Home Health Aide: Some LPNs may choose to work in a supporting role before fully transitioning into home health. In this position, you assist patients with personal care tasks, helping them with hygiene, mobility, and meal preparation while gaining experience in a home health setting.

Mid-Level Positions

  • Assisted Living LPN: As you gain experience, you may choose to work in assisted living facilities, where you will manage patient care, supervise home health aides, and communicate with families and healthcare providers.

  • Field Supervisor: With additional experience and possibly some leadership training, you can transition to a supervisory role. In this position, you oversee a team of home health aides and LPNs, ensuring that patient care is consistent and meets agency standards.

  • Community Health LPN: Engaging more with public health, you might work in community health settings, focusing on preventive care and health education for diverse populations.

Advanced Roles

  • Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): If you pursue additional education, such as a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN), you can become a CNS specializing in home health care. You will lead nursing practice, research, and education initiatives within your agency.

  • Director of Nursing: With significant experience and leadership skills, you can advance to this high-level role, overseeing nursing staff, developing policies, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations within the home health organization.

  • Nurse Practitioner (NP): For those who decide to further their education through a master's program in nursing, becoming an NP allows you to diagnose and treat patients independently, significantly expanding your scope of practice in home health.

Through these progressive roles, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills and make significant impacts in the lives of your patients while advancing your career in home health nursing.

Related Fields and Alternative Career Paths to Home Health LPNs (2024)

As a Home Health LPN, the skills and education you gain can open doors to various related fields and career paths. Here are some options for careers that share similar educational backgrounds or require transferable skills:

  • Registered Nurse (RN): With additional education, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you can transition to an RN role. This position typically involves broader responsibilities, including patient assessment, creating care plans, and administering more complex treatments.

  • Nursing Home Administrator: If you are interested in combining your clinical knowledge with management skills, pursuing a degree in healthcare administration could lead you to become a nursing home administrator. This role involves overseeing the operations of long-term care facilities.

  • Medical Assistant: The training received as an LPN can facilitate a move into the medical assistant field. Responsibilities may include taking patient histories, preparing patients for exams, and assisting physicians during examinations, often focusing more on administrative tasks.

  • Home Health Aide: Transitioning to a home health aide role allows you to continue providing personal care to patients in their homes, albeit with a focus on daily living activities rather than medical treatments. Your experience as an LPN gives you a distinct advantage in understanding patient care needs.

  • Clinical Research Coordinator: For those interested in the research aspect of healthcare, qualifications as an LPN can provide a foundation for becoming a clinical research coordinator. This involves managing clinical trials and ensuring compliance with regulations.

  • Patient Care Technician (PCT): This role is often seen as an entry-level position in hospitals and other healthcare settings. Your LPN experience prepares you for direct patient care, vital sign monitoring, and assisting in procedures.

  • Occupational Health Nurse: If you want to pivot into workplace health and safety, additional training may allow you to work as an occupational health nurse, focusing on employee health, safety protocols, and workplace assessments.

  • Health Educator: With your background in nursing, transitioning to health education can be a viable option. This role involves teaching communities about health maintenance, disease prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices.

  • Pediatric LPN: If you have a passion for pediatrics, consider specializing in this area. With additional training or certifications, you can work in pediatric clinics or home health settings focusing on children’s healthcare.

  • Case Manager: Your experience working closely with patients and understanding their care plans makes you a strong candidate for a case manager position. This involves coordinating patient care and ensuring they receive appropriate services.

Exploring these alternative paths can broaden your career opportunities while utilizing the foundational skills and knowledge acquired in your Home Health LPN training. Each career may require additional education or certification, so be sure to research specific requirements based on your interests.

Home Health LPN Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (2024)

  • What educational background do I need to become a Home Health LPN?
    To become a Home Health LPN, you typically need to complete a state-approved LPN program, which usually takes about one year. These programs are often offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and online institutions.

  • Are there specific certifications required for Home Health LPNs?
    In addition to completing an LPN program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain your nursing license. Some employers may also prefer additional certifications relevant to home health care, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) or First Aid.

  • Is a high school diploma necessary before enrolling in an LPN program?
    Yes, most LPN programs require a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) for enrollment. Certain programs may also have prerequisites in subjects like biology or anatomy.

  • Can I pursue an LPN program online?
    Many LPN programs offer hybrid models that include online lectures combined with on-site clinical training. Ensure any program you choose is accredited and meets your state’s licensing requirements.

  • What subjects will I study in an LPN program?
    Your coursework will typically include subjects such as anatomy, physiology, nursing theory, pharmacology, nutrition, and patient care practices. Clinical experience is also a key component of LPN training.

  • How long does it take to complete an LPN program?
    Most LPN programs can be completed in approximately one year of full-time study. However, some programs may offer part-time options that could extend the duration.

  • Do I need to obtain a specific license to work in home health care after becoming an LPN?
    After obtaining your general LPN license, you do not need a separate license to work in home health care. However, be prepared to comply with any additional regulations specific to home health services in your state.

  • Are there continuing education requirements for Home Health LPNs?
    Yes, many states require LPNs to complete continuing education courses to maintain licensure. Check your state’s board of nursing for specific requirements.

  • What type of hands-on training can I expect during my LPN program?
    Your LPN program will include supervised clinical practice in various health care settings, where you'll gain experience in direct patient care, medication administration, and other essential nursing skills.

  • Will my LPN training prepare me specifically for home health care?
    While LPN training provides a strong foundation in nursing, there may be additional training or specific skills related to home health care that you will need to learn on the job or through specialized courses once employed in that setting.

Additional Resources for Home Health LPNs (2024)

  • National Network of Career Nursing Assistants (NNCA)

    • Website: www.cna-network.org
    • Offers resources for aspiring nursing assistants, including training requirements and advancement opportunities.

  • National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)

    • Website: www.ncsbn.org
    • Provides information on licensing and regulatory standards for nurses, including state-specific requirements for LPNs.

  • American Nurses Association (ANA)

    • Website: www.nursingworld.org
    • A professional organization that offers resources for continuing education, advocacy, and nursing ethics.

  • Online LPN Programs

    • Website: www.acenet.edu
    • A resource to find accredited online LPN programs tailored to your career goals.

  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

    • Website: www.bls.gov/ooh
    • Provides data on job outlook, salary information, and educational requirements for LPNs, including those in home health.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

    • Website: www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE
    • Offers accreditation information for nursing programs and ensures high educational standards.

  • NursingCenter

    • Website: www.nursingcenter.com
    • Provides access to continuing education courses, nursing journals, and various professional resources for LPNs.

  • Local Community Colleges and Technical Schools

    • Many community colleges and technical schools offer programs for aspiring LPNs. Check your local listings for available options and resources in your area.

  • State Boards of Nursing

    • Website: www.ncsbn.org/contactbon.htm
    • Find your state’s Board of Nursing for specific licensing requirements and resources tailored to your state.

  • Home Health Care Agencies

    • Local home health agencies often offer training programs and mentorship opportunities for LPNs. Research agencies in your area to explore potential resources they may provide.

By utilizing these resources, you will gain a thorough understanding of the educational requirements and professional landscape for Home Health LPNs.