Licensed practical nurses form an integral part of the healthcare system, providing care for those in nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, and group homes. The country as a whole is experiencing a surge of professionals moving into LPN careers, and Oklahoma is no exception. The Oklahoma Board of Nursing reports that nearly 7,000 new LPN licenses were issued between 2010 and 2014, a figure that includes both newly credentialed LPNs and those who have previously practiced in different states. Continue reading to learn more about the LPN profession in Oklahoma, including details about licensing, annual salaries and estimated job growth in the coming years.
Oklahoma LPN Programs
Students in practical nursing programs gain the skills they need to work in Oklahoma, including the clinical procedures for providing care to patients ranging from pediatric to geriatric. Aspiring LPNs can choose from certificate, diploma and degree programs approved by the state's Board of Nursing. Use the search tool below to find a school that meets your academic needs based on school size, school type, location and tuition.
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LPN Licensure Requirements in Oklahoma
Licenses for practical nurses are issued by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, which is responsible for ensuring nurses around the state work according to legal requirements. This section provides information about the licensing process and how the Board renews these credentials.
Basic Eligibility for LPN license
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must provide proof of citizenship
- Complete online application and submit
Licensure Education & Training Requirements
LPNs are required to graduate from a school that has been approved by the Board. The state requires that these programs teach how to care for newborns, young children, and adults. Programs in Oklahoma must also cover psychiatric mental health nursing principles.
Additional Requirements to Obtain a License in Oklahoma
- Pay $85 application fee
- Arrange to have official school transcripts sent directly to the Board
- Undergo criminal background check
- Register for and pass the NCLEX-PN at a Pearson Vue testing center
Renewal Procedure
LPNs are required to renew their licenses every odd-numbered year by the end of their birth month. During those two years, nurses should complete at least 24 continuing education hours or 520 hours of work that have been verified by their employer. Nurses can also satisfy the state licensure renewal requirement by completing a certification in a nursing specialty or a Board-approved refresher class. When applying for renewal, LPNs must pay a $75 fee.
Salaries for LPNs in Oklahoma
The salaries for licensed practical nurses can vary depending on where in Oklahoma they live. Continue reading to find out how much these professionals make in different locations in the state.
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Top Paying Metropolitan Areas
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Oklahoma Employment Trends for LPNs
LPNs in Oklahoma may work in different settings, ranging from hospitals to ambulatory care service providers. This section will explore statistics about varied locations of employment, the job titles they generally hold, and the age ranges of those in the field.
Top Locations for Employment
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Oklahoma City | 4,090 |
| Tulsa | 2,540 |
| Southeastern Oklahoma nonmetropolitan area | 1,820 |
| Northeastern Oklahoma nonmetropolitan area | 1,320 |
| Northwestern Oklahoma nonmetropolitan area | 780 |
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| Southwestern Oklahoma nonmetropolitan area | 640 |
| Lawton | 510 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
Employment of LPNs in Oklahoma
2012 14,000
2020 15,930
Average Annual Openings 540
Source: Projections Central
Resources for LPNs in Oklahoma
This page of the Oklahoma Board of Nursing's website provides reports about the nursing profession, including information on LPN employment statistics.
Continuing Qualifications for Practice for License Renewal Guidelines
Provides detailed information about the continuing education required to keep LPN licenses current in Oklahoma.
IV Medication Administration by Licensed Practical Nurses
LPNs must follow strict guidelines when administering intravenous medications. The OKBON provides information about these requirements.
Nursing Education - Oklahoma Historical Society
Wondering how the practice of nursing first started in OK? The Oklahoma Historical Society provides a history of nursing education, including the training for practical nurses.
National Federation Licensed Practical Nurses Association
Members of this association benefit from access to annual conferences, continuing education and a host of professional resources.
The Board of Nursing is responsible for licensing all of Oklahoma's nurses and ensuring they adhere to the state's professional standards.
Oklahoma Employment Outlook 2018
This site includes nursing employment forecasts compiled by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission's Economic Research & Analysis division.
The Oklahoma Nurses Association (ONA) empowers the state's nurses through advocacy and professional development. The group also provides continuing education courses to ensure LPNs keep their license current and hosts events for nurses to connect with each other.
This page outlines the guiding legislation for the nursing profession in Oklahoma, including the responsibilities of LPNs working in the state.
State-Approved Licensed Practical Nursing Programs
Compiled by the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, this list highlights all the practical nursing education programs approved for students seeking licensure.