LPN Resume (CV) and Cover Letter
A carefully crafted resume is your first opportunity to explain to a potential employer why they should hire you. Unfortunately, for some people it may be there only chance. The purpose of your resume is twofold – It should summarize your skills, abilities and accomplishments, but more importantly it needs to make you stand out from the crowd.
Nursing is one of the most sought after careers in the 21st century. What does this mean for you? It means there is fierce competition, especially for new graduates. Don’t worry; a strong resume will help you rise above the competition.
Target Audience
According to Purdue University writing lab, you should know as much information about your audience as possible when using persuasive writing. In this case, your audience is your potential employer and your persuasive writing is your resume.
Before starting the writing process, take the time to investigate your prospective employer. This will help give you invaluable insight on the types of skills and qualifications that they are looking for in potential candidates.
Cover Letter
The cover letter is an essential companion to your resume. It’s an effective way to introduce yourself and specify why you are the most qualified candidate for the job. Most cover letters are no longer than about a page.
Format
Resumes follow two basic formats. A functional format emphasizes past accomplishments and is better suited for LPNs that have been in the workforce for some time.
A chronological format is ideal if you are recent graduate. The structure highlights the candidates increasing levels of responsibility in chronological order.
Organization
- Start by writing your full name, professional title, address, phone number and e-mail address.
- Write a short and concise career objective.
- List all previous jobs and provide a summary of your duties and responsibilities. If you are a new graduate, list the hospital, where you completed your education.
- Next, list your education. Include your school name and state, as well as all applicable dates. Don’t forget to note any academic awards you may have received.
List all licenses and certifications that you may have. Include a list of references that your potential employer can contact.
Sample LPN Resume Template
AMY SMITH
4356 Firethorn Lane
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Career Objective
Dedicated medical professional in a fast-paced hospital setting. Resourceful problem-solver capable of initiating formative solutions to complex problems. Key strengths include:
- Computer skilled.
- Remain calm and professional during times of critical need.
- Relate well with a variety of cultures and socioeconomic conditions.
- Team oriented.
- Proven record of reliability and responsibility.
Professional Experience
2007 -2010 St. Paul’s Hospital, Brooklyn, NY
Medical/Surgical Licensed Practical Nurse
Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Observing, reporting and documenting patient activities
- Providing physical, social and emotional needs to patients
- Monitoring and recording of intake and output
- Administering surgical wound care, wound vac and dressing
- Preparing and administering medications
Education
October 2007 Certificate of Completion, Licensed Practical Nursing
St. Paul’s College, Brooklyn, NY
Licenses & Certifications
New York State Licensed Practical Nurse
CPR Certification, St. Paul’s Hospital, Brooklyn, NY
References
Name, title
Business or school.
Address
Phone number
Sample Cover Letter For LPNS
Amy Smith
4356 Firethorn Ln.
Brooklyn, NY 11201
May 08, 2011
Attn: Job contact
I am extremely interested in the Licensed Practical Nurse position that was listed in the New York Post. As indicated on my attached resume, I have been a Licensed practical Nurse for over three years, with an emphasis in Medical Surgical care. Through my background I have had the opportunity to work with a culturally diverse population both at the bedside and in patient family settings. Through my nursing experience, I have demonstrated strong leadership and organizational skills. In my role as a Licensed Practical Nurse, I have gained the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining a level of enthusiasm for the project at hand.
Thank you for taking the time to review my resume. I would welcome the chance to meet with you to discuss possible employment opportunities. Please feel free to contact me at the aforementioned telephone number if you have any questions or to set up an interview. I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely yours,
Amy Smith