How much does a practical nurse make?

In the U.S., pay can differ with experience, extra certificates, specialty skills, the kind of workplace, location, and how complex the work is. Night shifts may bring extra pay, since some healthcare employers pay more for less popular hours.

Care for ill, injured, or convalescing patients or persons with disabilities in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, group homes, and similar institutions. May work under the supervision of a registered nurse. Licensing required.

What's a typical day like?

They check patients’ blood pressure and temperature, help with bathing or bandages, and listen to concerns. They record care, watch for changes, and report them to a registered nurse or doctor.

In the U.S., complete a state-approved practical nursing program, usually about a year, with classroom lessons and supervised clinical practice. Then pass the NCLEX-PN and meet your state's licensing rules.

Vocational school or a few years' experience (preparation level 3 of 5)

Good for people who like helping and teaching and building and doing.

In some U.S. states, practical nurses with the right training can start IV drips—a task they cannot do everywhere.

The US figure is the median and the Japan figure is the average, so it's not a perfect comparison. Prices differ too.