Difference between LPN and RN
Understanding the Difference between LPN and RN
Nurses are some of the most important people in the healthcare industry, and understanding the difference between LPN and RN is very important. Though they both play very critical roles in healthcare settings, there are some apparent differences between them. RNs or registered nurses are usually higher up the ladder than LPNs, or licensed practical nurses, even though they sometimes perform related tasks. Regardless, the distinction between them can be made from their level of training, scope of responsibility, salary and advancement opportunities.
The Training difference between LPN and RN
To best understand the difference between LPN and RN, you have to know about the kind of training they undergo. LPNs take an average of one year in school before they are licensed and allowed to work. This training takes place in community colleges or vocational colleges and the coursework covered mostly goes over the practical aspects of nursing. To become an RN, more in-depth training is required, with a bachelor’s or associate’s degree needed before one can be licensed. Bachelor of Science degrees in Nursing take four years, while associate degrees take two at least. Registered nurses take a more detailed approached in their training, covering more complex work and getting more clinical exposure. This training difference between LPN and RN defines their responsibilities in their areas of work.
LPNs are usually in charge of the practical parts of nursing- they tend to basic patient needs, give injections, collect samples, assist with dressings and so on. RNs on the other hand tend to the more complex matters of nursing. Their more specialized training allows them to handle the more critical responsibilities, such as drug administration, and making managerial decisions. They are also in charge of the LPNs, and usually directly assign duties to them. Another difference between LPN and RN is with advancement opportunities. Registered nurses can advance their careers and are more likely to advance to leadership positions. LPNs on the other hand have lesser opportunities to advance in the nursing field and they usually have to first further their education before they are offered the same advancement opportunities.
Different Pay Brackets
Owing to their somewhat varied job descriptions, there exists a salary difference between LPN and RN. Statistically speaking, the median salary an LPN takes home each year is estimated at $38,000. This is significantly lower than RNs who take in excess of $58,000. If an RN moves into a management position, they might make as much as $90,000 annually. Don’t forget to check to see if you qualify for a nursing scholarship to help with your nursing school costs. This is indeed a very significant difference between LPN and RN.
