LPN vs RN: Which Nursing Path Is Right for You?

The difference between a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Registered Nurse (RN) is very distinctive in a nursing career. Both play a critical role in the healthcare provision, however, they differ in terms of scope of practice, responsibilities, and education wise. This article will help in bringing the clarity in their differences thus helping the aspiring nurse in choosing appropriate path that align with their professional goals.

To be a LPN, one have to complete a 12 to 18 months nursing practical program, and also participate in NCLEX-PN exam. The responsibilities of the LPNs comprises of monitoring patients vital signals, administration of drugs, and helping the patients with the basic activities of daily living. They majorly work as a support team under RNs. RNs on the other hand are those who have pass NCLEX-RN exam, and hold a bachelor degree or associate degree in nursing. Their role compose of complex clinical judgement, and supervising other nursing staff. Generally, RNs are nurses who are greatly qualified in a specific field. They also have educative roles and leadership roles, where they help LPNs. They can pursue graduate studies to become Nurse Practitioners or Clinical Nurse Specialists

Having BSN degree opens the door of opportunities for advanced certifications and specialized responsibilities. In terms of the salary, LPNs always earn average salary of $50, 000, while RNs always earn a much higher salary of around $80,000 annually, which may also differ within the group depending on the education level, and location of residence. RNS always work in a specialized field such as in ICU or ER, which justify their need of high salary. In terms of exams, RNs test is usually a bit complex as it delve deeper into topics such as pharmacology, disease pathophysiology, and complex case scenarios, while their counterparts, LPNs test usually test knowledge on general patient care.

Good preparation where nursing career guide and appropriate digital resources are utilized enhance chances of success. In terms of work environment, RNs are usually concentrated in hospital sections, where acute care services are required such as surgical departments, and emergency rooms. On the other hand, LPNs are usually work at nursing homes, and outpatient clinics. Due to the differences in working environment, each role therefore demand distinctive emotional role. In terms of schedule, RNs usually work for long hours due to the complications that often occurs in their working spaces, while LPNs usually work on more predictable timelines.

In terms of legal and ethical responsibilities, RN always bear more than LPN. The quickest route to nursing career might be through LPN rather than RNs. Doing LPN however, limit future growth unless a bridge program is done by the nurse, but RN program always provide opportunities for future growth. Additionally, in terms of job security, RN is more secure than LPN. This might be a good factor when considering job outlook. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, RN job opportunities are abundant and keep growing with increasing in demand from healthcare sectors, while LPN services seems to remain dormant especially with advanced in technology. Various employers love BSN-prepared nurses, as they have demonstrated better patient health care outcomes.

For LPNs who dream becoming RNs, there is available opportunity through a bridge program known as LPN-to-RN bridge programs that can be offer at part time, and can easily be done through online, not necessary physical sitting in a lecture room.

Clinical responsibilities and technology use also differ considerable between the two groups. Although all might be say to involve compassionate patient care. RNs always play critical roles such as health facility leadership role, handle complex documentation, and intervene in life-threatening situations. On the contrary, LPNs only concentrate in general patient care such as hygiene maintenance. In terms of technology, RNs always work with complex and advanced technologies such as electronic health records, advanced monitoring equipment, and surgical equipment. LPNs programs does not always emphasize technology use which show that little technology is use under this program.

For higher clinical authority and job flexibility, RN route is always the best. They work in wide environment like home health, travel nursing, research, education, or public health. In the contrary, LPNs is more restricted in bedside roles. In terms of exam success, LPNs should focus on pharmacology, infection control, and safety precautions in order to pass the test, on the other hand, RN should focus on leadership principles, care prioritization, and evidence-based practice. Both of these two programs required proper preparation to pass the test.

In summary, both LPN and RN play major role in patient care. Choosing between the two program depend on personal objective of an individual. With proper and early preparation for each program, all can lead to a lucrative and rewarding life. For aspiring nurses, taking consideration in the licensing of the two programs are key. RN licensing and maintenance is more rigorous compares to the LPN course. The RNs should always be up to date with the evolving health care sector, thus reviewing of the licenses is key.

LPNs required continuous learning as well, although the objective tend to be always on competency reinforcement and regulatory updates. The level of autonomy also differ between the two programs. RNs usually have high level of independence clinical wise. They are trained in making clinical decisions, interpreting patient diagnostic data, and administer treatment to the patients. Contrary, LPNs usually report to work and are supervised by RNs thus limiting their level of clinical independence and decision making.

In terms of accountability and leadership, RNs carry higher responsibility. They are the leaders, and are expected to maintain delegation authority, and advocacy for patients. LPNs are usually to bestow with high responsibility such as leadership position or advocacy matters unless delegated by an RN.

Most healthcare institutions are moving toward the Magnet® designation, which focuses on nursing recruitment and services as a key cornerstone for patient healthcare outcomes. The demand for BSN-RNs is high due to this factor, making nursing career a path full of job opportunities for aspiring nurses.

LPN vs RN: Which Nursing Path Is Right for You?

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