LPN Job Growth to be "much faster than average."

In its latest Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-2011 Edition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has identified the Licensed Practical Nurse occupation as one that is expected to grow “much faster than average” indicating an employment projection of 20 percent or more between 2008 and 2018 nationally. Additionally, the overall job prospects are expected to be “very good” which suggests job openings will be more numerous than job seekers in the field.

The BLS reports that Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses held about 753,600 jobs in 2008 with about 25 percent working in hospitals, 28 percent working in nursing care facilities, and another 12 percent working in physician offices. The remaining worked for home healthcare services; employment services; residential care facilities; community care facilities for the elderly; outpatient care centers; and Federal, State, and local government agencies. Projected employment in 2018 is expected to reach 909,200.

The report goes on to state that the increase in demand will be driven by the increase in share of the older population. Older persons have an increased incidence of injury and illness, which will increase their demand for healthcare services. In addition, with better medical technology, people are living longer, increasing the demand for long-term healthcare. Replacement needs will also be a major source of job openings, as many workers leave the occupation permanently. Job growth will occur over all healthcare settings but especially those that service the geriatric population like nursing care facilities, community care facilities, and home healthcare services.

The report goes on to state that the Median annual wages of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses were $39,030 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $33,360 and $46,710. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,260, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $53,580. Median annual wages in the industries employing the largest numbers of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in May 2008 were:

Explore this exciting field further by reading the complete report at the BLS website by clicking here.

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