Licensed Practical Nurses are important healthcare professionals in the seniors care sector who provide a wide range of nursing services to older adults. They focus on promoting, maintaining, and restoring health and preventing illness and injury. LPNs work with residents and clients who have stable or predictable states of health, and they collaborate with other healthcare team members within the LPN Scope of Practice. 
In seniors care, LPNs play a vital role in providing support and direction to Health Care Assistants (HCAs), assessing and reporting on the well-being of those under their care, participating in multidisciplinary care, protecting client dignity and confidentiality, and providing hands-on care, all within their scope of practice.
LPNs have successfully completed a two-year nursing education program and met BCCNM registration requirements. This program includes theoretical and practical components that cover a wide range of nursing skills and knowledge. LPNs must also be licensed to practice in their respective provinces or territories.
In the elder care sector, LPNs work in a variety of settings, including long-term care homes, assisted living residences, and home health care. They work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as Registered Nurses (RNs), physicians, and therapists, to provide high-quality care and support to older adults.
Overall, the role of LPNs in the elder care sector is critical to ensuring that older adults receive the care and support they need to maintain their health and wellbeing. It is a rewarding career for individuals who are passionate about helping others and who are committed to providing high-quality care to older adults.
Quick facts about Licensed Practical Nurses
- Education: 2-year diploma program in practical nursing.
- Certification Required: Must be licensed with the BC College of Nurses and Midwives.
- English: A minimum of Grade 12 English or equivalent.
- Pay: $$ – $$$
Most LPNs in seniors care earn between $28 and $34 per hour. - Job Opportunities: ★★★★★
LPNs are considered a high opportunity occupation, with the BC’s Labour Market Outlook projecting over 4,700 job openings over the next 10 years. - Sample job description: Coming soon.
Helpful Resources
There are many helpful resources to start your career in support services in B.C.’s seniors care sector. Here are just a few:
- BC College of Nurses and Midwives
The BCCNM is the regulatory body responsible for licensing nurses, including LPNs, in British Columbia. You can learn more about education requirements and the pathways to licensure on their website. A full list of LPN educational programs can be found here and you can apply to have your international credentials assessed via the Nursing Community Assessment Service. - NursingJobs
The Government of British Columbia is working to make getting licensed and finding meaningful employment easier for internationally educated nurses (IENs). You can find information about career navigation, financial supports and more at nursingjobs.ca. - Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants – Health
The Career Paths program is a government subsidized resource that helps internationally educated health care professionals achieve their licensure or registration in British Columbia, including becoming registered as a Health Care Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse. - Facilitating Access to Skilled Talent (FAST)
The FAST (Facilitating Access to Skilled Talent) Program helps immigrants and newcomers to launch their careers in Canada through self-paced, online employment preparation and competency assessment tools developed in partnership with Canadian employers. Take the FAST occupational assessment for Recreation Assistants today to learn how your skills compare to employer expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
*coming soon*