August 5, 2025 | British Columbia

Healthcare in Canada is powered by professionals who care deeply about making a difference. Among these dedicated individuals are Licensed Practical Nurses, or LPNs. If you are considering a career in healthcare and wondering, "Where do Licensed Practical Nurses work?" You are in the right place. In this article, we will break down the many environments where LPNs practice, what they do in each setting, and how you can get started with CDI College's Practical Nursing program. 

Understanding the Role of an LPN 

Before we dive into where Licensed Practical Nurses work, let's talk about what they do. LPNs are frontline healthcare professionals who provide essential care under the supervision of Registered Nurses and physicians. They perform a wide range of duties, from administering medications and monitoring vital signs to providing emotional support to patients and families. But LPNs are more than just task-doers. They are caregivers, advocates, and often the first people patients interact with during their healthcare journey. Their work is critical in ensuring patients receive compassionate and consistent care. 
 

Bonus Read: What is Practical Nursing? 
 

Where Do Licensed Practical Nurses Work? 

The beauty of a career as an LPN is its flexibility. Practical Nurses are in demand across many different healthcare environments. Here is a closer look at where you will find LPNs making a difference every day. 

1. Hospitals 

Hospitals are one of the most common workplaces for Licensed Practical Nurses. Here, LPNs work in various departments such as medical-surgical units, maternity wards, pediatrics, emergency rooms, and rehabilitation. 
 

In hospitals, LPNs assist with bedside care, administer medications, monitor vital signs, and help patients with daily activities like eating and bathing. They are the eyes and ears on the floor, often noticing subtle changes in a patient’s condition that could signal a bigger issue. 

2. Long-Term Care Homes and Nursing Homes 

Long-term care homes and nursing homes rely heavily on LPNs to provide daily care to residents. These facilities are home to seniors and individuals living with chronic conditions who need consistent, compassionate care. 
 

LPNs build long-term relationships with residents, managing their ongoing health needs and providing emotional support. From assisting with personal hygiene to managing medications and supporting mobility, LPNs are the backbone of these facilities. 

3. Community Health Centres 

Community health centres offer a variety of services aimed at preventative care and health education. LPNs in these settings may participate in outreach programs, conduct wellness checks, and assist with vaccinations or screenings. 
 

In this role, LPNs often work closely with public health teams to support community-wide health initiatives. Their focus is on keeping people healthy and catching potential issues before they require hospitalization. 

4. Medical and Walk-In Clinics 

In medical and walk-in clinics, LPNs support physicians by preparing patients for examinations, taking medical histories, performing minor procedures, and managing follow-up care. This setting offers a fast-paced environment where LPNs need to be adaptable and ready to handle a variety of patient needs. 
 

LPNs in clinics play a key role in ensuring appointments run smoothly and patients receive timely care. 

5. Public Schools 

Yes, LPNs can even be found in schools. In public school settings, LPNs provide basic healthcare services to students, administer medications, and support children with chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma. 
 

They work closely with school staff and parents to ensure students’ health needs are met, allowing children to focus on learning. 

6. Private Homes 

Home healthcare is a growing field, and LPNs are at the heart of it. Many patients prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own homes, especially after surgery or when managing long-term illnesses. 
 

LPNs in home care assist with wound care, administer medications, monitor recovery progress, and provide personal care. This setting allows LPNs to build strong, trusting relationships with patients and their families. 

7. Rehabilitation Centres 

In rehabilitation centres, LPNs support patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or illnesses. They assist with therapy exercises, manage pain medications, and monitor the patient’s progress throughout the rehabilitation process. 
 

This role is ideal for LPNs who enjoy helping patients regain their independence and quality of life. 

8. Assisted Living Facilities 

Assisted living facilities provide a blend of independent living and healthcare support for seniors who need some assistance with daily activities but do not require full-time nursing care. 
 

LPNs in these environments help residents with medication management, mobility support, and basic health monitoring, ensuring they maintain as much independence as possible. 

9. Remote and Rural Healthcare Clinics 

In Canada’s remote and rural communities, LPNs play a vital role in providing healthcare services where access to hospitals and specialists may be limited. LPNs in these areas often take on a broader scope of responsibilities, collaborating closely with doctors and RNs to deliver comprehensive care. 
 

Working in a rural clinic can be incredibly rewarding for LPNs who want to serve underserved populations and make a tangible impact. 

The Common Thread: Compassionate, Person-Centred Care 

No matter where Licensed Practical Nurses work, one thing remains constant: their dedication to providing compassionate, person-centred care. LPNs are trained to see the whole person, not just the medical condition. They build relationships, offer emotional support, and advocate for their patients’ needs. 
 

LPNs are often the most present caregivers, spending more time with patients than any other healthcare provider. This close interaction allows them to notice small changes in a patient’s condition and respond quickly, which can be life-saving in many cases. 

A Career that Adapts to Your Life 

One of the most appealing aspects of a career as an LPN is its flexibility. Whether you prefer the fast pace of a hospital, the community connection of public health, or the personal relationships built through home care, there is an environment that matches your interests and lifestyle. 
 

This career also offers stability and a wide range of opportunities for growth. As Canada’s population ages, the demand for skilled LPNs continues to rise, ensuring a strong job market for years to come. 

How to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse 

If you are inspired by the diverse workplaces and meaningful work of LPNs, the first step is to complete an accredited Practical Nursing program. CDI College offers a Practical Nursing diploma program in British Columbia designed to prepare students for success in the field. Highlights of CDI College’s Practical Nursing Program: 
 

• Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, pharmacology, ethics, and patient care. 
• 475 hours of clinical practice and a 180-hour preceptorship in real healthcare settings. 
• Experienced instructors who bring real-world insights to the classroom. 
• State-of-the-art labs that simulate healthcare environments. 
• Career services support and industry certifications like WHMIS and First Aid. 

 
CDI College has a proven track record of student success. In 2023, graduates from the Surrey campus achieved a 92 percent pass rate on the REx-PN exam, exceeding the provincial average. 

Read More: How to Become Licensed Practical Nurse in Canada 

Start Your Journey Today 

So, where do Licensed Practical Nurses work? The answer is simple: everywhere care is needed. From hospitals and homes to schools and clinics, LPNs are essential members of the healthcare team, delivering care with skill, compassion, and dedication. 
 

If you are ready to take the first step toward a career that truly makes a difference, CDI College’s Practical Nursing program can help you get there. With expert instruction, hands-on experience, and a supportive learning environment, you will graduate ready to enter the workforce and start making an impact. 
 

Your future in healthcare starts now. Apply to CDI College’s Practical Nursing program and become the LPN Canada needs.