LPN Practice Test

The role of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), also known as a Certified Practical Nurse (CPN) in some regions, is a crucial one within the healthcare industry. LPNs provide foundational care to patients under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. With a combination of classroom education and hands-on experience, LPNs work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and residential care facilities, addressing the needs of patients in various healthcare settings. For anyone looking to enter a nursing career in a relatively short time, becoming an LPN is an efficient and valuable choice. Practice with the free Certified Practical Nurse practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (550+ questions with answer explanations).

LPN Exam at a Glance

What changed for LPN in 2026

• Oct 28, 2026: Delivery changed to Pearson VUE test centers, U.S. and international (previously Pearson test centers, U.S. and international).^[6]
• Oct 28, 2026: Retake fee changed to Full registration fee applies to every retake (previously Same registration fee applies to retakes).^[5]
• Oct 28, 2026: Eligibility changed to Declared eligible by your nursing regulatory body (NRB) (previously Eligibility is declared by your nursing regulatory body (NRB)).^[7]
• Oct 28, 2026: Exam fee changed to $200 USD registration fee (U.S. licensure) (previously $200 USD registration fee).^[3]
• Oct 28, 2026: Number of questions changed to 85–150 items (computerized adaptive) (previously 85–150 items; computerized adaptive examination).^[1]
• Oct 28, 2026: Testing window changed to ATT window set by the board; average 90 days (previously Authorization to Test window set by the board; average 90 days).^[7]
• Oct 28, 2026: Registration deadline changed to Registration stays open 365 days awaiting eligibility (previously Registration stays open 365 days for the board to determine eligibility).^[1]
• Oct 26, 2026: Other (update 2026-04-01) changed to The 2026 NCLEX-PN Test Plan took effect on April 1, 2026 and runs through March 31, 2029. (previously The 2026 NCLEX-PN Test Plan takes effect April 1, 2026 and runs through March 31, 2029.).^[9]
• Apr 1, 2026: The 2026 NCLEX-PN Test Plan took effect on April 1, 2026 and runs through March 31, 2029.^[9]

Free Certified Practical Nurse Study Tools

Interactive Certified Practical Nurse resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:

• LPN Medical-Surgical Nursing: Cardiovascular Disorders 1 — 72 questions with instant scoring and answer explanations
• Certified Practical Nurse flashcards — review key terms and concepts card by card
• Certified Practical Nurse study guide — topic-by-topic overview of what the exam covers
• Certified Practical Nurse cheat sheet — one-page printable summary for last-minute review

According to National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE, “The NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN can be anywhere from 85 to 150 items.”^[1]

LPN content outline and where to practise each area

The content areas below are copied from the official LPN content outline published by National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE. The right-hand column shows which of our practice sets covers it.

Worked examples: how to reason through LPN questions

These are practice questions written for this site, not questions from the real exam. Each explanation shows why the right answer is right and why the others are wrong.

Example 1

Question: During shift handoff, the LPN uses SBAR to communicate patient status. What does the 'R' in SBAR stand for?

1. Report
2. Recommendation
3. Response
4. Reassessment

Answer: B. Recommendation

Explanation:

Recommendation is correct. In SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation), the final step is where the nurse states what action they want or suggest, such as a provider review or a change in orders. Report is wrong because the whole handoff is already a report; it is not a named step. Response describes what the listener does afterward, not what the sender says. Reassessment is a nursing process step, not part of this tool. The rule to remember: SBAR moves from what is happening, to context, to your judgment, to a specific request. Always end with a clear ask.

Example 2

Question: A client is admitted with a myocardial infarction (MI). Which symptom is most commonly reported by female clients experiencing an MI?

1. Crushing substernal chest pain
2. Nausea, fatigue, and jaw pain
3. Diaphoresis and left arm radiation
4. Sharp pleuritic chest pain

Answer: B. Nausea, fatigue, and jaw pain

Explanation:

Nausea, fatigue and jaw pain is correct, because women often present with atypical symptoms and may not describe the crushing pain most people expect. Crushing substernal chest pain is the classic presentation, which is more typical of male clients, so it is not the best answer for this question. Diaphoresis and left arm radiation are also part of the classic picture. Sharp pleuritic chest pain, which worsens with breathing, points toward a lung or pleural problem rather than the heart. The rule to remember: do not rule out a cardiac event just because a client lacks classic chest pain, and report vague symptoms promptly.

Example 3

Question: A breastfeeding client 2 days postpartum reports breast engorgement. The LPN should advise the client to:

1. Stop breastfeeding temporarily and apply ice packs
2. Feed frequently (every 1–2 hours), apply warm compresses before feeding, and cold packs after
3. Apply cabbage leaves and reduce fluid intake
4. Switch to formula feeding to relieve engorgement

Answer: B. Feed frequently (every 1–2 hours), apply warm compresses before feeding, and cold packs after

Explanation:

Frequent feeding, warm compresses before feeding and cold packs afterward is correct. Emptying the breast often prevents milk from building up, warmth helps milk flow, and cold afterward eases swelling and discomfort. Stopping breastfeeding temporarily lets milk accumulate and makes engorgement worse. Cabbage leaves are sometimes used for comfort, but cutting back on fluids is not supported and does not treat the cause. Switching to formula is unnecessary when the client wants to breastfeed and the problem can be managed. The rule to remember: engorgement is treated by removing milk regularly, with heat before and cold after.

How to use these practice tests

Begin with the official material. Read the NCLEX candidate information on nclex.com so you know how the adaptive format, the time limit and the retake rules work, then confirm eligibility steps with your nursing regulatory body.

Next, take a practice set from each of the four content areas listed above and note which feel weakest. Use the topic sets, such as pharmacology, wound care, IV therapy, maternal and neonatal nursing and pediatrics, to work on those gaps in short sessions rather than long marathons.

1. Answer a set without looking anything up.
2. Read every explanation, including those for questions you got right.
3. Write down the rule behind each miss in a sentence of your own.
4. Return to the same topic a few days later and retry only the questions you missed.

As test day gets closer, mix topics together so you practise switching between them, and sit a longer session in a quiet place to build stamina for a long, adaptive exam. Our questions are written by us with AI tools and are not real exam questions, so use them to build judgment and recall, and rely on your course materials and the official sources for rules and scope.

Key Takeaways

Free LPN Practice Test Online

• Role of LPNs: Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are essential healthcare providers, delivering foundational patient care under the supervision of RNs and physicians. They handle tasks such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with personal hygiene.

• Education and Licensing: Becoming an LPN requires completing an accredited practical nursing program, which typically takes 12-18 months, followed by passing the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain licensure.

• Flexible Learning Options: Aspiring LPNs can choose between traditional in-person programs or accredited online options, which allow for remote coursework combined with in-person clinical training.

• Salary and Job Outlook: The median salary for LPNs is approximately $50,000, though this varies by region, experience, and workplace setting. Job demand for LPNs remains strong, driven by an aging population and a consistent need for healthcare services.

• Career Advancement: LPNs have diverse career options across hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare settings. With further education, LPNs can advance into roles like Registered Nurses or specialize in fields such as pediatrics or geriatrics.

What is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?

Licensed Practical Nurses are trained professionals responsible for providing essential medical care, including monitoring patients’ vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with personal hygiene. LPNs are distinct from RNs (Registered Nurses) in terms of training requirements, responsibilities, and scope of practice, though both roles are vital to patient care and healthcare operations.

Key Responsibilities of an LPN:

• Administer basic patient care, including taking vital signs and giving injections
• Monitor patient conditions and report changes to RNs or physicians
• Assist with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding
• Perform routine lab tests and assist in patient assessments
• Maintain detailed patient records and document care plans

LPN Education and Certification Requirements

To become an LPN, candidates must complete an accredited practical nursing program, which typically lasts between 12 to 18 months. These programs are available at community colleges, technical schools, and some healthcare facilities. Coursework covers areas like anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care practices, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field.

Steps to Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse:

• Complete an Accredited Program: LPN programs focus on core nursing concepts and hands-on training.
• Pass the NCLEX-PN Exam: After completing an LPN program, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain licensure.
• Obtain State Licensure: Requirements for licensure vary by state, so check with the local nursing board to confirm state-specific mandates.

Keypoints:

• LPN programs generally take 1-2 years and include both coursework and clinical experience.
• Passing the NCLEX-PN is mandatory to practice as an LPN in the United States.
• State licensure requirements vary, and ongoing education may be required to maintain licensure.

Licensed Practical Nurse Programs and Online Options

LPN programs are available in both traditional and online formats, making it easier for aspiring nurses to balance education with other responsibilities. Online practical nursing programs offer flexibility, allowing students to complete theoretical coursework remotely while attending clinical training in-person at approved healthcare facilities.

Advantages of Online LPN Programs:

• Flexible Scheduling: Ideal for working professionals or those with family commitments.
• Reduced Commute Time: Students save time by completing coursework online.
• Accredited Programs Available: Ensure that the online program is accredited by recognized bodies, like the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

For hands-on clinical training, online LPN students usually partner with local healthcare facilities. This blended approach ensures that students gain the practical experience necessary to succeed in the field.

LPN Salary Expectations and Job Outlook

A career as an LPN is both rewarding and financially viable. The demand for licensed practical nurses is on the rise due to an aging population and increased need for healthcare services. According to recent data, the median annual salary for LPNs in the United States is approximately $50,000, though this varies by location, experience, and specialty.

Factors Influencing LPN Salaries:

• Geographical Location: Salaries are generally higher in states with a higher cost of living.
• Experience Level: Experienced LPNs may command higher salaries or hold supervisory roles.
• Workplace Setting: Hospitals and specialty clinics tend to offer higher salaries compared to residential care facilities.

With projected growth in healthcare jobs, the need for skilled LPNs remains strong, offering job security and advancement opportunities for licensed professionals.

Career Opportunities for Licensed Practical Nurses

LPNs have various career pathways open to them, depending on their interests and specializations. Many LPNs work in hospitals, where they are part of larger medical teams; others may choose residential care facilities, which often provide more stable schedules. Additionally, LPNs can specialize in areas such as gerontology, pediatrics, and home healthcare, with each area offering unique experiences and benefits.

Common Employment Settings for LPNs:

• Hospitals and Clinics: Opportunities for fast-paced, hands-on patient care
• Long-Term Care Facilities: Ideal for those interested in working with elderly or chronically ill patients
• Home Healthcare: Provides one-on-one care for patients in their homes
• Rehabilitation Centers: Assists in the recovery of patients post-injury or surgery

LPNs also have opportunities to further their education and transition into roles such as Registered Nurses or Nurse Practitioners, providing a solid foundation for continued professional growth.

Conclusion

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse is a practical choice for individuals looking to enter the healthcare industry quickly while making a meaningful impact on patients’ lives. With a variety of work environments and flexible program options, an LPN career is accessible and adaptable, catering to diverse interests and lifestyles.

With competitive salaries, stable job growth, and the potential for specialization, LPNs are integral to the healthcare system. Those who choose this path not only gain valuable skills but also start on a career that provides both personal fulfillment and professional stability.

Related Nursing Practice Tests

If you are preparing for a career in nursing, you may also find these related practice tests helpful:

Prepare for the CNA - Certified Nursing Assistant — the foundational certification for nursing assistants, covering patient care, vital signs, and daily living activities.

Prepare for the NCLEX - National Council Licensure Examination — the national licensure exam for registered nurses, testing clinical judgment and patient safety across all nursing domains.

Prepare for the TEAS - Test of Essential Academic Skills — a standardized admissions test for nursing programs, assessing reading, math, science, and English language skills.

Prepare for the CCRN - Review — a specialty certification for nurses working in critical care units, covering hemodynamic monitoring and ventilator management.

Prepare for the PCCN - Exam — the Progressive Care Certified Nurse exam for nurses in step-down and telemetry units.

Sample Certified Practical Nurse Practice Questions

Try these questions from our free Certified Practical Nurse practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.

1. A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is preparing to enter the room of a client diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis. Which combination of personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for the nurse to don before providing care?

   • A. Surgical mask and gloves
   • B. Gown, gloves, and face shield
   • C. N95 respirator and gloves
   • D. Gown and surgical mask

Answer: C. N95 respirator and gloves

Pulmonary tuberculosis requires airborne precautions. The essential PPE for airborne precautions includes a fit-tested N95 respirator to prevent inhalation of small airborne particles. Gloves are also necessary as part of standard precautions when contact with bodily fluids is possible.

Answer: C. Activate the facility's fire alarm system.

The RACE acronym for fire safety stands for Rescue, Alarm, Contain, and Extinguish/Evacuate. After rescuing anyone in immediate danger, the next step is to activate the alarm to alert others and initiate an emergency response.

Answer: C. 132/84 mmHg

According to ACC/AHA guidelines, Stage 1 hypertension is defined as systolic 130–139 mmHg or diastolic 80–89 mmHg.

Answer: C. Elevate the arm above heart level for 24–48 hours

Elevating the casted extremity above heart level reduces swelling and prevents complications such as compartment syndrome in the first 24–48 hours.

Take the full Certified Practical Nurse practice test

Sources & last verified

1. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — number of questions, retake policy, registration deadline (official source). “The NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN can be anywhere from 85 to 150 items.” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 17, 2026.
2. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — time limit (official source). “Candidates have five hours to complete the NCLEX, including breaks.” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 25, 2026.
3. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — exam fee (official source). “Registration Fee Candidates Seeking U.S. Licensure $200 USD” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 16, 2026.
4. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — passing score (official source). “The NCSBN Board of Directors voted in December 2022, to uphold the current passing standard of -0.18 logits for the NCLEX-PN Examination through March 31,…” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 17, 2026.
5. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — retake fee (official source). “Yes. The same fee applies to all NCLEX registrations, including retakes, based on the date the registration is completed.” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 17, 2026.
6. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — delivery (official source). “The NCLEX is offered at domestic and international test centers.” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 17, 2026.
7. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — eligibility, testing window (official source). “First, submit an application for licensure/registration to the NRB where seeking to be licensed/registered. This step is required to obtain eligibility to take the NCLEX*.” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 17, 2026.
8. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — score release (official source). “Official results are ONLY available through the NRB and will be sent to candidates within six weeks after taking the exam.” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 17, 2026.
9. National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), NCLEX-PN administered by Pearson VUE — other (official source). “2026 PN Test Plan Effective April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2029” Verified Oct 28, 2026 · source checked Oct 17, 2026.
10. ncsbn.org — other (official source). “health promotion and maintenance” Verified Oct 28, 2026.

How we verify: editorial & fact-checking policy. Report an error: contact us.