Vocational nurses, otherwise known as licensed practical nurses, work in a range of healthcare settings providing care and a limited range of medical services to patients. Vocational nurses need the least training of those in the nursing profession, but provide an invaluable service and can choose to progress their skills.

Vocational nurses work in hospitals, clinics and nursing homes and are responsible for most of the patient's day to day bedside care. They apply dressings, check blood pressure, temperatures, pulse and breathing, to give injections and report back to more senior nurses and doctors on the patient's progress. Vocational nurses may also specialize in areas such as maternity, neonatal or geriatric care. This may lead to further study and qualifications later.

Vocational nurses need a diploma from a technical or vocational school. Vocational nurse training also incorporates practical care and usually lasts about a year. Programs give an overview of such areas as basic nursing, anatomy, physiology, the administration of drugs, nutrition, and first aid. A caring nature is a must to be a vocational nurse.

Vocational nurses are being given more and more chance to diversify their roles in our growing healthcare industry. This is an interesting, rewarding career and vocational nurses can greatly increase their salaries with further study.