Become an LPN: LPN vs RN
Loading ...While both LPNs and RNs are considered nurses, there are significant differences between the two, starting with even the educational process.
LPN Programs vs. RN Programs
LPN programs traditionally encompass 12 to 18 months of curriculum after your pre-requisite classes are finished. Depending on the college or LPN program, a student may have enough credits to earn an associate degree in health science, as well as complete the credits for the LPN program.
In contrast, RN programs are three to five years in duration after pre-requisites are complete, and the student then earns an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
However, what are the differences between a LPN and RN after the initial education?
Differences in State Licensing Exams
LPN and RN state licensure exams are different in complexity and in theory. The LPN exam focuses on patient care, while the RN exam is based upon the theories behind the care, as well as the care itself. Both exams test on basic knowledge of disease processes, but the RN exam is more extensive in the pathophysiology of the disease processes, theory, and critical thinking skills.
Varying Scopes of Nursing Practice
The Scope of Practice between a RN and LPN is clearly defined by the licensing board of each state. LPN nurses, in many instances, function under the supervision or guidance of an RN when practicing nursing. Most institutions have policies and procedures which clearly state that an RN may need to supervise or review certain procedures that a LPN performs.
The Scope of Practice also clearly states which procedures a LPN may not perform. In most states, for instance, the LPN may not give intravenous medications or start intravenous lines for a patient. LPN nurses may not infuse fluids or nutrition in a central line. Most facilities allow LPN nurses to do a bladder catheter and feeding tube nutrition, but there is usually an RN on staff to cover those procedures if there is a problem.
Expected LPN Salary
Pay rates for LPN and RN nurses differ at each institution or facility. Most often, the LPN will receive a few dollars an hour less, but not always, and the LPN will still earn a shift differential for off shifts, just like an RN.
Earn $15,000 more as an RN. LPN to RN online program
Anticipated Responsibilities
Responsibilities are shared by the LPN and the RN on the same unit. However, the LPN does not call physicians for orders when there is a RN available, and in most facilities, cannot take a phone order from a physician. In the home care setting, a LPN can take the phone order from the physician, but the case manager who is a RN must check those orders and get them signed from a physician.
LPN nurses do provide patient care and treatments. They provide morning care, bedtime care, and dressings and treatments within their scope of practice. The LPN has the unique opportunity to spend more quality time with the patient and family, developing trust and offering support.
LPN programs offer the student a basic understanding of diseases, procedures, and basic nursing care. The LPN is rewarding, offering the LPN the springboard to further their education while earning a full time paycheck.
Tags: ASN degree, how do i become an lpn, LPN jobs, LPN or RN, lpn vs rn salary, LPN vs. RN, Lpns, Rn Exam, Rn Programs, rn to lpn, rn vs lpn responsibilities, rn vs lpn salary
Have your say!
This article has 2 comments
lpn seem like the area i want to work in. thanks to the website i read and understand and would really like to become a lpn.
I have been a LPN now since 1996 and I am proud of it. Good luck Sharnette.