If you’re ready to start your path towards a career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), you may be wondering where to begin. In the state of Washington, there are a number of different LPN programs that can give you the education and training you need to succeed in this field.
In order to become an LPN in Washington, you must first complete an accredited nursing program. We have listed some of the accredited programs below along with information on program requirements and admissions criteria.
If you’re ready to start your career as an LPN in Washington, contact one of the programs listed below and get started on your path today.
What Are the Admission Requirements for LPN Programs in Washington?
Admission requirements for LPN programs in Washington vary from school to school. However, there are some general requirements that are typically required for admission into nursing programs. These requirements may include:
A high school diploma or GED
Completion of prerequisite coursework in subjects such as English, math, and science
ACT or SAT scores (may be waived for adults 25 years of age or older)
A minimum GPA
Completion of a criminal background check and drug screen
What is a LPN Program in Washington Like?
LPN programs in Washington prepare students for a career in practical nursing. The curriculum is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to care for patients in a variety of settings.
During the program, students will take coursework in subjects such as:
English and mathematics
Anatomy and physiology
Basic psychology
Life span development
Medical terminology
Nursing fundamentals
Chronic conditions
Mental health disorders
Pediatric nursing
Pharmacology
Newborn and maternity nursing
In addition to classroom instruction, students will also participate in clinical rotations. This hands-on experience will give students the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios. During clinical hours, students will work under the supervision of a licensed nurse in order to gain experience in areas such as:
Assessing patients
Administering medications
Providing treatments
Monitoring vital signs
Documenting patient care
What is the LPN Exam in Washington?
After completing an accredited nursing program, students must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). In Washington, the NCLEX-PN exam is administered by Pearson VUE, so you will need to register to take the exam with them. There is also a $200 fee that must be paid when scheduling the exam. You may also need to have your official transcripts sent to the Washington State Board of Nursing, which can be emailed to [email protected].
The NCLEX-PN is used to measure a student’s knowledge and skills related to practical nursing. The exam is comprised of multiple-choice questions and is administered via computer. Students will receive the results from the exam within 6 weeks after taking the exam. Upon passing the exam, students will then be eligible to apply for an LPN license in Washington. While waiting for your LPN license to be processed, you can obtain a temporary permit that will allow you to work as a Graduate – PN for up to 180 days.
What to expect working as an LPN in Washington?
After graduating from an LPN program in Washington, students will be prepared to enter the workforce. Licensed practical nurses work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics. They provide direct patient care and may also be responsible for tasks such as administering medications and documenting patient care. LPNs in Washington typically work under the supervision of a registered nurse or a physician.
LPNs often go on to pursue further education and training to advance their careers. Many become registered nurses (RNs) or pursue other health care roles.
Transferring a LPN License From Another State
Active LPNs from another state are able to work in Washington as a LPN after completing the license by endorsement process. You will need to provide work verification consisting of at least 1,000 hours of work as a LPN in another state, and you may need to submit official transcripts from your LPN program.
How Much Does an LPN Make in Washington?
The average salary for an LPN in Washington is $69,950 per year, or $33.63 an hour. This is higher than the national average for LPNs. Salaries will vary based on factors such as experience, education, location, and employer.
Metro
Employed LPNs
Salary/Hour
Salary/Year
Bellingham, WA
150
$ 30.30
$ 63,030
Bremerton-Silverdale, WA
200
$ 31.97
$ 66,500
Kennewick-Richland, WA
170
$ 31.04
$ 64,550
Lewiston, ID-WA
70
$ 27.68
$ 57,570
Longview, WA
120
$ 31.38
$ 65,270
Mount Vernon-Anacortes, WA
130
$ 31.94
$ 66,420
Olympia-Tumwater, WA
310
$ 32.67
$ 67,960
Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA
2,090
$ 33.26
$ 69,170
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA
3,490
$ 35.34
$ 73,510
Spokane-Spokane Valley, WA
570
$ 31.27
$ 65,050
Walla Walla, WA
80
$ 31.20
$ 64,900
Wenatchee, WA
70
$ 29.27
$ 60,880
Yakima, WA
210
$ 30.63
$ 63,720
What are the LPN Regulating Bodies in Washington?
The Washington State Department of Health’s Nursing Commission handles regulation and licensing for LPNs in the state of Washington. There are 8,198 currently licensed LPNs in the state of Washington, according to the DOH.
