LPN vs RN: What is the difference between an LPN and RN?
In the world of nursing, the roles and responsibilities of various professionals can sometimes be confusing for those outside the field. If you’ve ever wondered about the differences between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Registered Nurse (RN), or if you’re contemplating which career path to take, you’ve come to the right place!
Both types of nursing professionals offer unique contributions to the healthcare industry, and their roles complement each other in providing top-notch patient care. In this LPN vs RN guide, Soliant Health experts break down everything you need to know about the differences and similarities between LPNs and RNs, diving into the education, scope of practice, salaries, and more.
What are LPNs and RNs?
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional who has completed a practical nursing program and has obtained a license to provide basic nursing care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a physician. LPNs typically work in settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, and clinics, and their duties may include taking vital signs, administering medications, wound care, and assisting with personal care tasks for patients.
A Registered Nurse (RN) is a healthcare professional who has completed an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing and has obtained a license to provide a broader scope of nursing care than an LPN. RNs can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and public health agencies. Their duties may include assessing patients, developing and implementing care plans, administering medications, performing and interpreting diagnostic tests, and supervising LPNs and nursing assistants.
What is the difference between LPNs and RNs?
The primary difference between an LPN and an RN is the level of education, licensure, and scope of practice. RNs have completed a more extensive nursing education and are licensed to provide a wider range of nursing care, including more complex assessments and care plan development. LPNs, on the other hand, have completed a shorter nursing program and are licensed to provide basic nursing care under the supervision of an RN or a physician.
Differences Between LPNs and RNs
There are quite a few differences between LPNs and RNs. Explore the differences and similarities between the two roles when it comes to required education and training, salary expectations, job responsibilities, and career growth below.
LPN vs RN: Responsibilities
LPNs primarily focus on providing basic nursing care and support under the supervision of RNs or physicians. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring patients’ vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene and comfort, administering medications, and documenting patient information.
RNs have a broader scope of practice and are involved in more complex aspects of patient care. They are responsible for assessing patients’ needs, developing and implementing care plans, administering and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
LPN vs RN: Education Requirements
LPNs must complete a state-approved, practical nursing education program, which typically takes about one year. These programs include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. RNs are required to receive either a two-year associate’s degree in nursing or a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing.
LPN vs RN: Licensure
The requirements to practice as an LPN and an RN vary by state; however, LPNs are required to pass a state exam for LPNs and the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain their license.
RNs are required to pass a state exam for RNs and the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed.
While both must pass their respective NCLEX exams to obtain their license, RNs have more opportunities for obtaining additional certifications in specialized areas of nursing, such as critical care, oncology, or pediatrics. Although LPNs can also pursue some certifications to enhance their skills and knowledge in specific areas, the options are usually more limited compared to those available for RNs.
LPN vs RN: Salaries
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is $54,620. For registered nurses, the median annual wage is $81,220.
LPN vs RN: Job Growth
LPNs and RNs are projected to have a similar growth in employment over the next decade or so, with both careers boasting a higher job growth rate than the national average for all occupations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032. About 193,100 openings for registered nurses are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
The expected growth for LPNs is not far behind that of RNs, with the employment of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032. About 54,400 openings for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
Start Your LPN or RN Career with Soliant
Understanding the differences and similarities between RNs and LPNs is crucial if you’re considering a career in nursing, as it helps in making an informed decision on which path is better suited to your goals and interests.
While the roles of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs)have distinct differences in terms of education, responsibilities, and career opportunities, both types of nursing professionals play an essential role in healthcare systems nationwide and have a significant positive impact on the lives of patients each and every day.
If you’re looking to get started with your career as an LPN or RN, we invite you to browse through Soliant’s wide range of various LPN jobs, RN jobs, and additional types of nursing jobs today! Explore the possibilities that await you in the dynamic, rewarding world of healthcare with Soliant.