Enrolled Nurse
SOC 29-2061.00 · ESCO 3221 · OSCA 441131
Role snapshot
Overview
Enrolled Nurses, also known as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some regions, provide essential basic nursing care under the supervision of Registered Nurses or doctors. Their duties include monitoring vital signs, administering medications, changing dressings, and assisting patients with daily living activities. They work across various healthcare settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities, clinics, and home health services, focusing on patient comfort, safety, and well-being.
Provides direct, compassionate care to patients, contributing significantly to their comfort, recovery, and overall well-being. Supports the healthcare team by managing routine tasks and observing patient conditions, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.
On the job
- Monitor and record patients' vital signs, symptoms, and medical information.
- Administer medications and injections as prescribed by doctors, under supervision.
- Assist patients with personal care, including bathing, dressing, and feeding.
- Change wound dressings and perform basic wound care.
- Educate patients and their families on health maintenance and disease prevention.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Completion of a diploma or advanced diploma in nursing, typically from a vocational institution or community college.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Enrolled Nurse
Nursing & Midwifery
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
social · SRC
Individuals who enjoy providing direct care, following established procedures, and working in a structured environment to support patient health often thrive as an Enrolled Nurse.
Personality characteristics
Conscientious
Highly organised and responsible, meticulously follows protocols and ensures accuracy in patient care and documentation.
Agreeable
Empathetic and compassionate, able to build trust with patients and collaborate effectively with colleagues.
Emotionally Stable
Maintains composure under pressure, handling challenging patient situations and emergencies with a calm and steady demeanor.
Extroverted
Comfortable interacting with diverse patients, families, and healthcare team members, communicating clearly and reassuringly.
Open to Experience
Willing to learn new techniques and adapt to evolving medical procedures and patient needs.
Practical
Enjoys hands-on tasks and applying practical skills to deliver direct patient care.
Best for
- Individuals who are compassionate, detail-oriented, and thrive in a structured, fast-paced clinical environment.
- Those who find fulfillment in providing direct, tangible care and support to patients.
- People who enjoy being part of a dedicated healthcare team and contributing to patient well-being.
Watch out for
- The work can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring resilience and stress management.
- Adherence to strict protocols and procedures means less room for independent decision-making compared to other roles.
- Regular shift work, including weekends and public holidays, is common.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Enrolled Nurse — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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