At this point, you're not just nursing—you're leading. You've built teams, survived surveys, and probably kept a facility running through impossible staffing challenges. Your experience is exactly what healthcare organizations need in leadership. Let's make sure they see your full value.
Crafting a Standout Licensed Practical Nurse Summary
Your summary is the first thing recruiters see. Here are examples that actually work for senior licensed practical nurses:
“Director of Nursing with 10 years building high-performing nursing teams. Leads 50-person department in 120-bed skilled nursing facility. Zero deficiency surveys for 3 consecutive years. Known for staff development and retention.”
“Senior LPN with 8+ years in long-term care leadership. Assistant DON managing clinical operations. Reduced turnover 50% through culture improvements. Expert in regulatory compliance and quality assurance.”
“Nurse Manager with 12 years across skilled nursing and assisted living. Develops policies and procedures for 200-bed campus. CMS 5-star rating achieved under leadership. Mentors supervisors toward advancement.”
“Clinical Director with 9 years transforming care quality. Leads team of 40 across multiple units. Implemented falls prevention program reducing incidents 60%. Advisor on state LPN practice issues.”
Pro Tips for Your Summary
- Lead with organizational scope: beds, staff, facilities
- Show survey and compliance excellence
- Include staff development and culture building
- Mention regulatory expertise and industry involvement
Essential Skills for Senior Licensed Practical Nurses
Technical Skills
Soft Skills
- Leadership and administration skills lead
- Include regulatory expertise prominently
- Show organizational impact
- Demonstrate industry involvement if applicable
Licensed Practical Nurse Work Experience That Gets Noticed
Here are example bullet points that show real impact:
- •Lead 50-person nursing department in 120-bed facility
- •Develop and implement clinical policies and procedures
- •Manage nursing budget and resource allocation
- •Prepare facility for state and federal surveys
- •Mentor and develop supervisors toward advancement
- •Partner with administrator on facility strategy
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Relevant certifications for senior licensed practical nurses:
- Education is secondary to experience
- Healthcare administration credentials matter
- Include industry presentations or committee work
Common Mistakes Licensed Practical Nurses Make
❌ Mistake
Resume focuses on nursing skills
✓ Fix
At senior level, show leadership: 'Leads 50-person department,' 'Zero deficiency surveys,' 'Built culture.'
❌ Mistake
No survey or quality outcomes
✓ Fix
Healthcare leadership is measured. Show: 'CMS 5-star,' 'Zero deficiencies,' 'Quality improvement metrics.'
❌ Mistake
Missing culture and retention
✓ Fix
Senior leaders build teams. Show: 'Reduced turnover 50%,' 'Developed supervisors,' 'Staff retention excellence.'
Quick Wins
- Add 'Leadership & Administration' section
- Include survey and quality outcomes prominently
- Show staff development and culture building
- Reference regulatory expertise and committee work
Frequently Asked Questions
Can LPNs become DON?
Yes, in many smaller and medium-sized facilities. Larger facilities often require RN or BSN. Check state regulations—requirements vary.
Should I pursue nursing administration degree?
For DON and administrator roles, healthcare administration credentials help. Many programs are designed for working nurses.
What's the highest level for LPN career?
DON in SNF/LTC, clinical director, healthcare consultant, educator. Some LPNs also move into facility administration or corporate roles.
The Bottom Line
Your senior licensed practical nurse resume should show what you've accomplished, not just what you've done. Focus on impact, use numbers, and keep it clean and ATS-friendly. When you're ready, use our free resume builder to create a polished, professional resume in minutes.
Average Salary: $60,000 - $80,000+ | Job Outlook: Growing 6% through 2030
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