Nursing salaries are competitive with, and in many cases higher than other professional salaries. Salaries are expected to increase as the need for nurses increases.

Most licensed practical nurses in hospitals and nursing facilities work a 40-hour week, but because patients need round-the-clock care, some work at night, during weekends and holidays. They often stand for long periods and help patients move in bed, stand, or walk.

Median annual earnings of licensed practical nurses were US $33,970 in May 2004. The middle 50% earned between $28,830 and $40,670. The lowest 10% earned more than $24,480 and highest 10% earned more than $46,270. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of licensed practical nurses in May 2004 were:
 

Employment services  Nursing care facilities  Home health care services  General medical and surgical   Hospitals/Office of Physicians

$41,550 $35,460 $35,180 $32,570 $30,400