What is the difference between lpns and rns

Although both allow for a fulfilling career in nursing and healthcare, when it comes to aspects like job responsibilities, salary, and education - the two are different. Before starting on your educational journey towards a career in nursing, it is a good idea to understand the job responsibilities and career goals of both RNs and LPNs. To sum up, LPNs are responsible for providing more basic nursing care and usually work under the supervision of RNs.

Licensed practical nurses differ in many ways from other nurses, but their day-to-day duties often consist of similar work. Some of the major differences between LPN's and other nurses include:. With that in mind, LPN programs can be completed in less time than RN programs and generally cost less. It takes about 12 months to complete an LPN program. The shorter time frame is very appealing to many, as it allows passionate individuals the opportunity to quickly delve into the healthcare workforce.

Many complete LPN programs at community or technical colleges. As part of an LPN program, LPN candidates will take part in supervised clinical training in order to gain hands experience in the field. In addition to nursing courses, students will also take classes that focus on pharmacology, human anatomy, and biology.

LPN programs are very much structured around learning how to perform the necessary skills required to take care of patients. Registered Nursing programs on the other hand take anywhere from 18 to 36 months to complete. RNs must earn a professional nursing degree. The exact length of the program depends on the type of Registered Nursing degree one seeks to obtain. BSN programs usually take about four years to complete. A big difference between registered nurses and licensed practical nurses is the amount of education and training they have received.

An RN typically has a minimum of a two-year degree. LPNs usually have earned a certification only. Schooling for LPNs can usually be completed in about a year. The training you receive to become a license practical nurse is usually about the same as the first year of an RN program. Many nursing schools now offer bridge programs so LPNs can continue on to become registered nurses at their own pace while balancing life demands such as working, raising a family, or both.

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Schedule a Call with Admissions. Regardless of which degree you pursue, we strongly recommend it be from an accredited program. Accreditation means an institution made the effort These programs have proven that they cover all the required information to ensure you are prepared to take the licensing exam when you complete the program. Financial aid is typically only offered at accredited schools, another reason to ensure you attend an accredited program.

LPNs are primarily responsible for assisting patients with medication, updating patient information, monitoring vital signs, assisting doctors and RNs, and other specialized skills as the specific setting require, such as feeding babies in a maternity ward.

RNs are responsible for all of these tasks. But they also have more responsibilities. They also often specialize in a particular aspect of medical care. These specializations can range from pediatric care to senior care, surgical assistance, to patient rehabilitation. Salaries vary from location to location. Seniority and the cost of living need to be considered when comparing compensation.

We know it can be hard to decide which direction is best for you. This is why we have knowledgeable admissions specialists who can help you understand your options. This information is provided solely as an example of possible employment outcomes. The healthcare industry, specifically nursing, is constantly evolving as new medical technology, discoveries, and innovations occur.