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Graduate Lpn Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

NHC

Licensed Practical Nurse LPN

Lewisburg, TN · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Current Tennessee LPN license or eligible Graduate Nurse/Graduate Practical Nurse * Passion for caring for geriatric patients * Commitment to NHC values of honesty, integrity, and excellence Benefits ...

NHC

LPN Licensed Practical Nurse

Columbia, TN · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

LPN Licensed Practical Nurse - Big Impact, Big Sign-On Bonus! NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care ... A commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care New graduates, Graduate Nurses, and ...

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Graduate Lpn information

See Tennessee salary details

$14

$27

$39

How much do graduate lpn jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate lpn in Tennessee is $27.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.45 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate LPN?

Graduate LPNs are individuals who have completed the required coursework and clinical training in a licensed practical nursing (LPN) program but have not yet passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). They often work under supervision until they obtain their official license. Graduate LPNs perform many of the same duties as licensed LPNs, such as providing basic patient care, administering medications, and assisting with daily living activities. Their responsibilities and scope of practice may be limited depending on state regulations until they pass the licensure exam.

How to get a job as an LPN as a recent graduate?

The qualifications that you need to get a job as a recently-graduated licensed practical nurse (LPN) include a degree and a nursing license. Licensed practical nurses start their careers by enrolling in a postsecondary practical nursing program. A few states, such as California, call LPNs "licensed vocational nurses (LVNs)." After graduating from the nursing program, which should take between one and two years, you need to take the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain your license. Some states have additional requirements, such as undergoing a background check. You can gain clinical experience by undertaking an internship during your LPN degree program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate LPN, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate LPN, you need foundational nursing knowledge, basic patient care skills, and graduation from an approved practical nursing program, along with eligibility for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), vital sign monitors, and standard clinical protocols is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and compassion are essential soft skills for providing effective patient care and collaborating with healthcare teams. These competencies are crucial for delivering safe, quality care and ensuring smooth clinical operations in healthcare settings.

What types of support and mentorship can a graduate LPN expect during their first year on the job?

As a Graduate LPN, you can typically expect a structured orientation period that may include job shadowing, hands-on training, and regular check-ins with a preceptor or experienced nurse. Many healthcare facilities pair new LPNs with mentors to help navigate clinical responsibilities, documentation practices, and workplace protocols. Ongoing support often extends to skill development workshops and opportunities to ask questions in a supportive environment. This collaborative approach helps new LPNs build confidence, refine their clinical skills, and adapt to the demands of the healthcare team.

What is the difference between Graduate Lpn vs Licensed Practical Nurse?

AspectGraduate LpnLicensed Practical Nurse
CredentialsCompletion of LPN training program, eligibility for licensing examLicensed after passing the NCLEX-PN exam
Work EnvironmentEntry-level clinical settings, supervised rolesFull practice roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care
Employer & Industry UsageEducational programs, internships, entry-level healthcareHealthcare facilities, patient care settings

Graduate Lpn refers to individuals who have completed their practical nursing education and are preparing to take the licensing exam. Once licensed, they become Licensed Practical Nurses. The main difference is that Graduate Lpn is a student or trainee status, while Licensed Practical Nurse is a licensed professional authorized to provide patient care independently.

How much do new graduate LPNs make an hour?

New graduate Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) typically earn between $18 and $25 per hour, depending on location, healthcare setting, and shift differentials. Entry-level LPNs often start at the lower end of this range and can increase their pay with experience and additional certifications.

What can a graduate licensed practical nurse do?

A graduate licensed practical nurse (LPN) can provide basic patient care, such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with daily activities under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians. They typically work in settings like clinics, long-term care facilities, and hospitals, using skills learned during their training and passing the licensing exam.
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Graduate Lpn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Lpn job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,399 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Graduate LPN-LVN

Rehabilitation Hospital of Bristol, a joint venture of Ballad Health and Encompass Health

Johnson City, TN • On-site

$25.25 - $34.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Graduate Licensed Practical Nurse provides a transitional role for the graduate practical nurse to begin orienting while waiting to pass the NCLEX and fully function as a Licensed Practical Nurse. The Graduate Licensed Practical Nurse is responsible for providing direct patient care to inpatients; observing patient behavior, vital signs, symptoms, and responses to treatment; reporting findings to registered nurse; and carrying out the patients plan of care under the direction of a registered nurse.

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