If you're a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) ready to land your next job, your resume is your strongest tool. Healthcare employers are looking for candidates who can deliver compassionate care, work well in fast-paced environments, and bring clinical experience to the table. Whether you're entering the workforce for the first time or bringing years of experience, having a well-written and focused resume can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what makes an effective LPN resume and share a complete lpn resume sample that reflects real-world job responsibilities, credentials, and achievements. Plus, you’ll find helpful resume writing tips tailored to the nursing field.
Complete LPN Resume Sample
Name: Sarah Thompson
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: sarah.thompson@email.com
City/State: Chicago, IL
Objective:
Compassionate and reliable Licensed Practical Nurse with over 4 years of experience delivering patient-focused care in fast-paced hospital and long-term care settings. Known for strong communication, attention to detail, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes. Seeking to contribute clinical skills and empathy to a dedicated healthcare team.
Licensure & Certifications:
Licensed Practical Nurse (State of Illinois, License #123456)
CPR/BLS Certified – American Heart Association
IV Therapy Certification
Professional Experience:
LPN – Midtown Rehabilitation Center
Chicago, IL | April 2021 – Present
Provide direct nursing care to 20+ elderly residents in a skilled nursing facility
Administer medications, track vitals, and report changes in condition to RNs and physicians
Maintain accurate patient records using PointClickCare
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to support individualized care plans
Played a key role in reducing medication errors by 15% through process improvement
LPN – Lakeshore General Hospital
Chicago, IL | January 2019 – March 2021
Supported surgical and post-op recovery patients under the direction of RNs
Assisted with wound care, catheterization, and IV administration
Educated patients and families on discharge instructions and medication use
Recognized for maintaining a 98% patient satisfaction rating
Education:
Associate of Applied Science – Practical Nursing
Chicago School of Nursing, Chicago, IL
Graduated: 2018
Skills:
Electronic Health Records (EHR): Epic, Cerner
Vital signs monitoring
Medication administration
Patient education
Team collaboration
Infection control protocols
Tips for Writing a Standout LPN Resume
Start with a strong summary. Tailor your resume summary to the role you’re applying for. Highlight your years of experience, key areas of expertise, and what sets you apart (e.g., patient communication, wound care, etc.).
Show impact with metrics. If you helped improve patient care, reduced error rates, or trained new staff, include that. Numbers give your experience credibility.
Tailor for each application. Modify your resume to match the job description—use the employer’s language and prioritize matching skills and duties.
Include licenses and certifications. Make your credentials easy to find at the top or in a dedicated section. This is often a requirement for healthcare roles.
Use healthcare-specific keywords. Terms like “vital signs monitoring,” “care plans,” “medication administration,” and “long-term care” can help you pass applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What should I include in an LPN resume with no experience?
Focus on your clinical rotations, internships, and nursing school projects. List your nursing license, CPR certification, and soft skills like communication and empathy.
2. How long should an LPN resume be?
Keep it to one page if you have less than 10 years of experience. Focus on relevant roles, certifications, and measurable achievements.
3. What skills are most important for an LPN resume?
Critical skills include patient care, medication administration, charting, teamwork, and knowledge of infection control. Soft skills like compassion and attention to detail are also vital.
4. Should I include a cover letter with my LPN resume?
Yes, a tailored cover letter can make a great impression. Use it to expand on your resume, express why you're passionate about nursing, and explain how you align with the employer’s mission.
This complete lpn resume sample and guide is designed to help you take the next step in your nursing career. Whether you're applying to a hospital, rehab center, or clinic, a professionally written resume can open the door to more interviews and job offers.
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