licensed practical nurse (LPN) /lī″sənst/ [L, licere, to be allowed; Gk, praktikos, fit for action; L, nutrix, nurse] , 1.(in the United States) a person educated in basic nursing techniques and direct patient care whose qualifications and education have been examined by a state board of nursing and who has legal authorization to practice. The course of education usually lasts 1 year. Once licensed, a licensed practical nurse practices under the supervision of a registered nurse. Also called licensed vocational nurse. 2. (in Canada) a person with a diploma from an accredited practical nursing program of 2 to 2½ years who has taken the national practical nursing examination. Each province regulates the practice. The LPN practices under the supervision of an RN or RPN (registered psychiatric nurse).
