Continuing education requirements have been mandatory for LPNs since January 1, 2003. 

Protection of the public begins when the regulatory body for LPNs, the SALPN, grants an initial professional license.  The license is based on the individuals' demonstrated command of the profession's relevant body of knowledge and the fulfillment of entry requirements.

However, public protection is not assured solely by the initial licensure.  The expanding body of health sciences, practice knowledge, changing health care systems, technologies and transforming scopes of practice require that practitioners continue to learn and improve on their knowledge, skills and clinical judgment throughout their professional careers.

Reflective Practice

It is the responsibility of the professional nurse to determine appropriate education that will enhance his/her individual nursing practice.  Consideration needs to be given to address learning needs or gaps that arise as the practice of the LPN evolves.  Nurses must reflect on their practice in order to maintain competence.