🧰 Core credentials

• Active Texas LVN/LPN license from the Texas Board of Nursing (BON), in good standing.

• Education: Completion of an approved LVN/LPN program.

• Licensure path: If you’re licensed in another state, you can apply for licensure by endorsement/reciprocity to practice in Texas.

🧪 Licensing process and ongoing requirements

• Licensure by exam/endorsement: Apply to the BON, provide required documentation, and pass the licensure process (NCLEX-PN for exam route).

• Fingerprinting / background checks: Pass fingerprints as part of initial licensure and as required by HHSC and your employer.

• License renewal: Maintain licensure through periodic renewal (in Texas, typically every 2 years) with any required continuing education.

📚 Education, certification, and continuing education

• Initial certification: NCLEX-PN must be passed to obtain licensure.

• Continuing education (CE): Complete the BON’s CE requirements to renew the license (specific hours and formats per TEXAS BON rules; your employer may also require additional in-service training).

• Site-specific training: Complete orientation for the HCS program and any nursing-specific trainings (infection control, patient rights, safety, medication policies, abuse/neglect reporting, etc.).

🧭 Scope of practice and supervision

• Scope of practice: Provide nursing care within the Texas Nurse Practice Act and BON rules, under appropriate supervision and delegation when applicable.

• Supervision model: In many HCS settings, LPNs work under the supervision of an RN or a medical director, and coordinate with the healthcare team.

• Medication administration: Administer medications and treatments as ordered, in accordance with policy, law, and facility procedures; may require adherence to facility-specific med administration policies and potential delegation rules.

• Documentation: Maintain accurate nursing documentation (care plans, MARs/medication records, progress notes, incident reports).

🛡️ Health, safety, and professional responsibilities

• Health status: Meet health and immunization requirements set by the employer and HHSC.

• CPR/BLS: Maintain current CPR/BLS certification and any site-specific emergency training.

• Safety and rights: Uphold resident rights, report abuse/neglect, and participate in safety/infection control programs.

🗂️ Administrative and on-the-job expectations

• Recordkeeping: Document care and communications clearly, timely, and in compliance with regulations.

• Team collaboration: Communicate effectively with residents, families, supervisors, and other care team members.

• Policy adherence: Follow agency policies, procedures, and supervision structures; comply with TAC/HHSC requirements for the service type (HCS, TxHmL, etc.).