Florida LPN
FL LPN Schools, LPN Programs and LPN Salary Data
Interviews with Florida LPNs
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Florida Nursing Interviews
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Florida LPN Stats:
Comfort Score Rank: #30 of 51
Benefit of RN Rank: #33 of 51
Avg. LPN Salary: $39,440
LPNs employed: 43,350
Top Cities in Florida for LPNs: Orlando, Fort Meyers, Tampa Bay, Lakeland, Palm Bay, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Miami/Fort Lauderdale
Florida has a growing number of opportunities in the nursing field. Within the state, LPNs make up 22 % of nurses in the state. The Florida LPN comfort score is 73. This takes into account the average LPN salary, average state salary and cost of living. The Florida RN comfort score is slightly higher at 116. The difference between the two illustrates that obtaining an RN degree in this state is a nice increase in comfort but not large enough to be worth it to everyone. Florida nursing schools and universities can provide more information that can help you pursue either degree. In Florida, the cities Fort Meyers, Tampa Bay, Lakelund, Palm Bay, Jacksonville, Sarasota, and Miami/Fort Lauderdale will have the most prevalent number of potential educational institutions and job opportunities for an LPN.
Checklist to become a Florida LPN:
- Complete your LPN program, 1 year of courses and hands-on practice.
- Apply for licensure with the Florida Board of Nursing ($85 fee) – Have your school send your transcript to them as well
- Obtain a CPR card and pass the NCLEX-PN exam
LPN Salaries in Florida
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) in Florida earn an average of $19.19/hr and a yearly income of $39,440. Nurses working in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries than in non-metropolitan parts of the state, although there is likely to be a relatively higher cost of living in those areas. An LPN can work in a variety of areas within the nursing field including nursing care facilities, hospitals or a physicians’ office. Nurses working in general medical and surgical hospitals typically earn more than those working in the offices of physicians. Also, nurses make more per hour when shifts are at night or during weekends and holidays. When choosing a career path within the industry, salary is only one piece to consider. Many LPNs find a more rewarding career in a family office rather than a hospital, despite a lower salary. It is advisable for LPNs to look towards home health care agencies and long-term care facilities are the fastest growing potential employers. The LPN with several years of experience and those with certifications in geriatric health are going to be in higher demand. It is crucial to begin trying to figure out which area is the best fit for you as early as possible. Take advantage of all the offered nursing classes and programs as well as continue to educate yourself and research all the available options before deciding.
LPN Degree and Education in Florida
In the state of Florida, the practical nursing program is the quickest route to becoming a nurse. To earn a degree requires one year of courses as well as hands-on practice. You are required to obtain a CPR card, and pass the NCLEX-PN exam upon completion of the LPN course. Florida registered nurses with at least a bachelor’s degree will have better job prospects than those without a bachelor’s. With any questions about nursing programs and specific requirements, contact the admissions office of your chosen college or school.
All Florida-licensed RNs, LPNs, ARNPs and CNs are in a 24 month renewal cycle and must complete 24 hours of continuing education every renewal period. Included in the 24 hours is a mandatory 2-hour course on Prevention of Medical Errors. A one-time one-hour course on HIV/Aids is required prior to your first renewal. A 2-hour course on Domestic Violence is required every third renewal. Courses will be provided by an approved Florida state board program.
Florida LPN Job Outlook
The nursing shortage in The United States is steadily increasing. There is a rising demand for new and more effective health procedures and life expectancy averages are continuing to climb. These issues will be reflected in the Florida health industry and help to create an extremely strong job outlook for LPNs. There are many nursing opportunities in all areas of Florida. Florida hospitals, home health companies and doctor offices are now offering flexible schedules, educational benefits, higher pay and other incentives to retain their staff and to recruit new nurses. Some hospitals are even offering sign on bonuses or student loan reimbursement up to certain maximums.
The comfort score of 73 indicates that an LPN in Florida is fairly compensated for the job they perform. The state ranks in the middle as far as the national scores. Obtaining an RN degree will increase the score to 116. It is always advisable to continue working towards an RN degree. Overall, the future for Florida nursing looks very bright. A career as an LPN in this state can provide opportunities and security.
LPN PROGRAMS
Breckinridge School of Nursing and Health Sciences
Florida Career College
Other Nursing and Medical Programs Near You
Keiser University
University of Phoenix
Everglades University
Online Programs
College of Health Care Professions
Fortis College
Ultimate Medical Academy
Kaplan University
Herzing University
Colorado Technical University
Keiser University
Westwood College
University of Phoenix
Virginia College
Rasmussen College
San Joaquin Valley College
Daytona College
Centura College
Penn Foster Career School
The Florida State Board of Nursing Website is www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa/index.html.