Lpn Versus Rn: Different Paths to Nursing
Whether you’re a patient trying to navigate the medical field or a student interested in a career in health care, understanding the types of nursing degrees will provide you with the information to make smart, informed choices. These guidelines offer that information, and demonstrate the key differences between the two general paths to nursing.
Whether you’re a patient trying to navigate the medical field or a student interested in a career in health care, understanding the types of nursing degrees will provide you with the information to make smart, informed choices. These guidelines offer that information, and demonstrate the key differences between the two general paths to nursing.
When visiting a physician’s office or hospital, patients almost always interact with a nurse. They are briefed and prepped, measured and poked, supported and escorted out the door. What they may not realize, however, is that not every nurse is the same. In fact, significant differences exist between licensed practical nurses, or LPNs, and registered nurses, or RNs. These include level of education and knowledge, responsibilities, and professional advancement. With a better understanding of the individual roles of health care personnel, patients can gain greater perspective on their experience in the medical world.
Course of Study
LPNs and RNs both base their course of study on nursing arts and sciences, typically with a background in other areas of science or the humanities. LPN programs generally take one year, whereas future RNs spend between two and four years completing their degrees. This allows RNs to gain a broader and deeper understanding of necessary topics and a more specialized body of knowledge, including physiology, pharmacology, clinical practice, delivery systems, research utilization, resource management and team functioning. This extra time also increases the cost of an RN education. For example, one college offers an LPN program at an average cost of $3,650 over one to one and a half years, while its RN program averages around $7,980 over two to three years. Additionally, RNs are expected to continuously supplement their nursing education. While both LPNs and RNs must maintain mental and physical competence to continue working, RNs are increasingly encouraged to pursue bachelor’s degrees and actively acquire new learning and skills.
Professional Expectations
The responsibilities of an LPN and an RN vary as well. In general, LPNs function in a “dependent” role that requires supervision or assistance from an RN or physician. RNs, on the other hand, may take action independently if they see fit. RNs also address a wider spectrum of issues than LPNs. The primary focus for an LPN is the client; she provides direct patient care, including determining status, devising a plan and evaluating outcomes. An RN performs these duties as well, often in more complex or unpredictable cases than those handled by an LPN due to her greater breadth and depth of knowledge. Her scope also encompasses families, culture, communities and populations, and psychological aspects such as coping mechanisms. In addition, RNs are responsible for creating and revising nursing care plans and medical information records. While LPNs often undertake these tasks as well and are equally legally accountable for documentation, RNs’ greater mastery of the relevant information may effect more detailed results.
Career Paths
The career paths of LPNs and RNs often lead in different directions. Currently, the majority of LPNs work in nursing homes or act as a charge nurse in a long term care environment. RNs perform in these capacities as well, but more commonly work in hospitals or medical offices. RNs also have a greater potential for advancement, as they may achieve higher level nursing positions such as director of a nursing home or nurse manager, albeit sometimes with additional education. Finally, pay rates differ between LPNs and RNs. The hourly wage for an LPN averages around $12-$14 per hour, while RNs typically make between $18-$20 per hour.
Although licensed practical nurses and registered nurses may seem similar at the doctor’s office, they have taken two separate routes to providing patient care. Differences in education, responsibilities and career choices result in distinct positions serving specific circumstances. Regardless, both LPNs and RNs strive to help others and perform a greatly beneficial service to society.
Liked it
Tricia | Apr 6, 2007 | Reply
I am currently an LPN upgrading to become an RN and I do not fully agree with some of the information that you are posting regarding:
1) Wages are incorrect (for RN’s and Lpn’s)
2) LPN’s do not require to be supervised by and RN as they are legally responsible and accountable for their own practice. In fact, it is not uncommon for you to see and LPN in a management position in charge of a floor especially in a long term care facility.
I could go on and on, but I do recommend that you do some more research before you post such false information.
Tricia
Mary Wood RN | Apr 17, 2007 | Reply
All nurses, including LPN’s and RN’s practice nursing under the laws of their respective states and these laws are called Nurse Practice Acts. In most states (and probably all states), LPN’s practice under the supervision of a Physician or RN. Yes, each nurse is held legally responsible and accountable for their own actions, but their practice is limited by the legal mandates within the state where they practice as a nurse.
This is called “Scope of Practice” and it limits the autonomy of the nurse to provide care within the limits of what they know. The purpose of these laws is to protect, promote, and preserve the public health, safety, and welfare by regulating and controling the practice of practical nursing.
In the state I reside in, a LPN who occupies a management position in charge of a floor of patients, does this under the supervision of an RN or a physician. LPN’s are not independent practitioners and can risk having their license revoked by the Board of Examiners in their respective state if they operate outside of their legal “Scope of Practice”.
I encourage the LPN, Tricia, who objected to the correct information provided on this web site, to research her Nurse Practice Act in order to keep herself from violating public law. This Nurse Practice Act is readily available on the Board of Nursing Web Site and when nurses accept their LPN licence, they agreed to operate within the legal restrictions of the state that issues the license. Mary Wood, RN
Kool Kid | Oct 14, 2007 | Reply
Nurses Rock Baby !!
happy | Nov 30, 2007 | Reply
OH GEE HERE WE GO. LPN/RN PEEING CONTEST.
happy | Nov 30, 2007 | Reply
yes Mary RN, we all know about The Nurse Practice Act, you certainly do not need to school us the role of RN’s and LPN’s. We all know that RN’s have alot more education behind them. Thank goodness for RN’s.
Dennis | Feb 26, 2008 | Reply
Yeah Mary and the article’s author need to review how it is now, not 10-20 years ago.
CNAs make roughly $11-13/hour
LPNs make roughly $16-20/hour
RNs make roughly $23-30/hour
polly | Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
wow,
I sure am glad that I am in a different part of the country. As an LPN I make 24 dollars an hour.
Sophia | Apr 14, 2008 | Reply
Polly what country your FRom so I can move there too?lol
newlpngrad | Jun 16, 2008 | Reply
Hi Polly, move north, I am a new grad LPN, making nearly $32/hr plus northern allowance-how cool! I can appreciate both the LPN and RN as I am pursuing my Bachelor of Nursing at the moment-our roles are similar but it seems as it’s seen to much as “LPN’S vs RN’s”….silly arguments
Polly | Jun 17, 2008 | Reply
I am near Chicago, however will not be moving north. The cost of living in my town is soooo low, with Chicago wages and hick town cost of living it will be a long time before I move!
dj | Aug 6, 2008 | Reply
i wanna know where up north do u stay, makin that kind of money a LPN
karen | Aug 7, 2008 | Reply
from karen in chicago. I am a LPN, thinking of bridging over to RN. Does anyone know. How much school I will need? Do you have to take the whole 2yr program or is it less?
wow | Aug 20, 2008 | Reply
um ok
eh | Aug 27, 2008 | Reply
whoa, $32/hr plus northern allowance?? Do you live in Alaska or something? There’s no way LPNs make that much in the 48 states.
susy | Aug 30, 2008 | Reply
Re Karen’s question, I think the upgrade from LPN -RN is about 2-3 more yrs to get the RN degree
Sharon | Sep 3, 2008 | Reply
I am in my mid 40s and out of the blue have a desire to persue the nursing field. I think I will act on this, seems to be a great deal of opportunity out there. I have found a reasonable CNA program and think its a good start. Will I be able to apply that certification toward an LPN program if i decide to continue in this direction?
Alexis | Sep 28, 2008 | Reply
I live in Northern NJ! Starting graduate pay for a new Rn is around $30 an hour. The program I am in only gives LPN’s credit for Nursing I (one semester) after they take a test showing they know the content. They also have to get all the college pre-reqs finished before they can be accepted into our program . That can take a while if done part time because of the heavy science courses. They also have to hope that someone quit or failed out of Nursing I so there will be room for them to start in Nursing II.I would not waste my time getting an LPN unless you LOVE geriatrics!!!!! Hospitals will not even hire LPN’s around here anymore.
L...LPN | Oct 2, 2008 | Reply
I live in Central Missouri and as a private duty nurse I make $28.00/hr. I take care of one patient in her home and she a nurse with her 24/7. There are both LPN’s and RN,s employed by her family. I have been with her for 7 years. I have been in school to get my RN and will graduate in 1 1/2 years with my BSN. I have been an LPN for 15 years and I am IV certified. I love my job and having the ability to work for who I want when I want without working for an agency. I agree with some other postings regarding the “pissing contest”, why does there have to be such conflict between LPN’s and RN’s????, aren’t we all there to provide the best care possible for our patients? Over the years let me assure you, I have worked with just as many incompetent LPN’s as RN’s! To attain the degree and pass the boards does not mean that an RN is any “Better” than an LPN. Each nurse must maintain the knowledge they have acquired and continually keep up on the frequently changing medical field. If you do not keep yourself accountable for which ever degree you have attained, then it does not matter what your title is….you will fail yourself and eventually your patients. So keep in mind that we are all out there working for the same thing; excellent patient care, and we must work together without egos!
VpG III | Oct 6, 2008 | Reply
To: L…LPN
Your Oct 2nd posting was very well stated! As a simpleton reading through the comments I agree with you. I have always wanted to work as a nurse in the Emergency Department and at 39 years old, I am hoping the doors of opportunity will open and make that possible. The last thing anyone wants to do is feel the tension between co-workers. Needless to say, nursing has a lot of demands in itself, there doesn’t need to be added stress on those rendering care to others. May you all continue doing a fabulous job, and remember there are many people looking up to you and appreciating your best efforts.
William | Oct 9, 2008 | Reply
I am currently in my first semester in an Associate RN program. I have various degrees which need not mention but have a graduate degree in another disipline. I have worked and taught at two universities and I have never been subject or experienced such disrespect as a student. The classes are scheduled but I have many REQUIRED out of schedule requirements. For example, myself and classmates have to take all exams at a time that is not shceduled classtime. If we are heard saying the words “Test” or “Exam” we have been threatened to be thrown out of the program. The class average is a high “D”. I love clinicals it is all that keeps me going but the treatment and demands are beyond unreasonable. I am considering a LPN program. I don’t want to be anyones boss make a middle class income and be happy. I know as a male RN the skys the limit but I get this sickning feeling I would be miserable. However I would like to make a respectable living. I would appreciate any and all feedback.
Red | Oct 13, 2008 | Reply
I am a new grad. Got my LPN. My first job in a prison in Vermont is base pay $23 with $1.50 differential 2nd shift. The local hospital starts LPN’s at $13.57! What a difference! I’m totally psyched! It was actually my first choice anyway. I like that it offers a component that is social work, advocacy, psyche, and technical. Lots of med pass, but that’s no different than a nursing home.
Why | Oct 22, 2008 | Reply
Why would anyone ever want to be a LPN…Why not an extra 4 months and get your RN..
Danielle in Pa | Oct 29, 2008 | Reply
I want to be a LPN because I want to better my life and help others!! I would eventually like to become a R/N.. However, it is costing me 10,275.00 just to become a LPN. After I am Licensed I am hoping to find a company willing to fund my further education as a RN…. Until than I will be grateful to at least have my foot in the door and not have to be a CNA!!!! So, thats why many LPN’s don’t start off right from the start for there R/N…. And it takes more than 4 months for a LPN to become a R/N…. Sooo, for some of us we are happy to be a LPN!!!! And if I never become a R/N I will still be happy with the profession that I have chosen….. At the end of the day I will be happy knowing I have provided professional care with a smile and great attitude. I hope this answered your question “Why”……….
Do I Now? | Nov 6, 2008 | Reply
Ok so I have learned a lot from reading this blog… I have learned that maybe I need to choose a different major! If this is the way that it will be after I earn my RN degree than maybe this isn’t what I want. I can’t believe the comments on this blog… Such hostility between medical “professionals”. Who cares about the degree? Do you think that God will care if you had an RN or an LPN when you die? Will that little child with cancer care if you are an RN or LPN as long as you are the one taking the pain away? How about the Grandfather coming out of heart surgery looking up at your warm smile which reminds him of his late wife? What do you think the woman in labor for the first time is thinking about when she is looking at you for instruction and reassurance? Do you think that she is wondering if you are an RN, or wondering if she is going to die because this doesn’t feel like “bad cramps.”? Why did you get into this profession? For me it will be because I want to see the child who is fighting for her life win that battle. I would want the new mother to know that she is fine and I am here for her. I agree with L…LPN we are all out there working for the same thing; excellent patient care, and we must work together without egos! If you are in the profession for the money, the power or any other reason except patient care, maybe you should re-evaluate yourself!
Leisa | Nov 6, 2008 | Reply
The four months to your BSN is if you do a concurrent program with the associate program. If you do this then generally you only have a semester or so after you get your associate RN and then you will have your BSN. Its more work but you get both done in the same amount of time.
cindy | Nov 11, 2008 | Reply
hey iam doing areserach i want to get into the medical field i want to know i any one can help i wanted to know about how many years you go to school to become a lpn and how many years you go to scool to become a rn thank you
whoalpnandrn | Nov 26, 2008 | Reply
cindy, lpn takes average a year and rn 2-3 yrs. have u considered a physical therapist assistant (PTA) program. dey make almost the same and so much less stress. i am transitioning to pta right now.
VJLOVESNURSING | Dec 20, 2008 | Reply
First of all, I, like William have a “multitude” of education. I started out as a Medical Assistant before I even graduated from a University. Now, I am currently enrolled in an LPN program. I decided to this because when I intially started in the Medical field, I did not want to invest thousands of dollars on something I did not know I was truly going to like. I was right, I did not like the medical field…I loved it! Anyway, I do not see anything wrong with becoming an LPN before you become a RN, if that is the path you want to endure. I have met so many people who get into nursing after spending thousands of dollars and say “Why did I become a nurse? I hate it! It is not what I thought it would be!!” I started out at our local University and the Director over Nursing said the same thing. She was glad to be sitting behind a desk helping students and asking them why the want to be a nurse before they get into the program. Basically it comes down to what you as an individual want to do. I want to start with my LPN degree before moving on because I did not want to spend 3 more years of my life training for a job before I can get into that field. At least with obtaining my LPN after 1 yr I can start working in that field before moving on to purse my RN. With my situation I am married and I have a small child, I did not want to take classes at my university for 3 yrs being unemployed while I would only be unemployed for at least 12 months before I could obtain gainful employment. (The local university only have classes certain times of the year and certain times of the day)
Lastly, in my city, LPNs can work as Office Managers, Case Management, and supervisors outside of LTC Facilities or Nursing Homes
marie | Dec 30, 2008 | Reply
I have a neice looking at LPN vs RN. I was hoping for more differences than whos better. I agree that they both accomplish the same thing, helping people.But I wanted to know which gave her better opportunity for advancement,hours,wages,etc. From what I’ve read LPN are more nursing home in PA. Does someone have concrete facts?
cmw | Jan 14, 2009 | Reply
Alot of the information here posted is false information,Anyone looking for information should go on a differnt site.Half the people here can not even spell.
Stacy | Jan 24, 2009 | Reply
Hi, DON’T move to Texas you will all go BROKE!!!LVN’s 12-16, RN 18-32.00. I am also in a bridge LVN-RN can’t wait untill I don’t have to hear you can’t do that your just an LVN, yea, an LVN that knows more and does more than most RN’s I work with. But I think it’s common sense and just because you have RN at the end does not mean you have it. However, we all know about the Nurse Practice Act and basically it depends on the facility you work in, and the training you receive from them as Contining ED. There are only a few basic rules that LVN’s most adhere to. One being blood transfusions and comprehensive assessments VS focused assessments. But I say to all LVN’s keep going you will be happier in the long run. ALL nurses should be praised not just the ones with a little more education. We all work hard especially the LVN’s, without us the RN’s would have to WORK harder
carrie | Jan 25, 2009 | Reply
the reason RNs and LPNs fight about who’s better is because we are a bunch of women. We are competitive and women always trash other women to feel better about themselves. Sad isn’t it? I think it’s funny because we go into nursing with a compassionate personality and then the claws come out when you start talking about salaries and job stresses. Just chill out and be happy you are a nurse. I know that LPNs can make a good living around here in Chicago with a new grad pay of 23/hr. So back off RN’s and lets all be thankful to have some job security.
jenny | Jan 30, 2009 | Reply
Well LPN school is about a year. Rn schooling is about 3 to 4 years depends on the waiting list for clinicals at each school and also depends on pre reqs and what you have done or still need to complete. Whether you took a certai class in high school ad passed or how long it has been since been inn high school also. Waitig lists to get i clinicals is approx. 2 years which you can’t eve get on waitig lists for a umber to start the actual ursig classes until all pre reqs are passed and completed. There is a few dollars difference in pay between LPN and associate degree RN depending on where you go. There are a few thigs that LPN’s cannot do like said previously which is blood transfusions, assessments, IV unless trained etc. They both have the kowledge though and the same plan which is to provide the best care for their patients. I have seen some really educated ad knowledgable lpns that were great at their jobs and not the same for some of the RNs and vice versa. They both can and are wonderful people doing wonderful things and neither truly get paid enough if you really see what their jobs entail on a everyday basis. Anyways there is nothing wrong with either one a person chooses whether it is LPN or RN they are both needed and if you want to pursue being a RN from a LPN it does not take but maybe another year to do so of schooling. If you are unsure if you will like the field maybe start as a CNA or a LPN before investing more money or time into education in case one does not like it in the end. CNA’s also are very knowledgable and I have seen some good ones where the RN’s go to for info about a client or help. Though they are not allowed to do some of the work they could truly. They are very underpaid and unappreciated. They are a nurses right hand I have wat ched and learned to appreciate. It made me realize and recognize how wonderful they are and how they make a LPN and or Rn’s job better and easier and how unappreciated and under paid they are. Just a thought on it all. o od luck to anyone and everyone that goes into the profession the schooling is hard and mind boggling but in the end it will be rewarding.
jt | Jan 31, 2009 | Reply
I was and Lpn for 10 years before I went back to school to become a Rn. Both are terrific nursing fields. You have to ask yourself why you are going back to school. I was a nurse manager as an Lpn in a nursing home. Reason I went back was because of better job oppurtunities. I was already making more than most Rn’s. I have researched the internet and my local paper for jobs. The Lpn can work in a nursing home, doctors office, home health, or research positions. Even with those there are still more job openings for the Rn. I am currenty working on my BSN and plan to move on to my Masters. Some people prefer to be Lpn and some Rn. All has to do with what the individual wants personally. I have worked with Lpn’s who had more knowledge than the Rn. With all that said you should view the nurse not with the degree in mind but what they have to offer. If you provide good care of your patients with commen sense and knowledge then they could care less what degee you have.
Elizabeth M. | Feb 12, 2009 | Reply
Wow…this article hardly explains the difference between an LPN and an RN. In fact, this article is based on the hatred and rivalry between these two professions which, unfortunately, exists everywhere. In my opinion (which is free to differ from everyone else’s opinion), they are both important in their own way. LPN’s would NOT have been created in the field if there were no need for them. RN’s have endured 2.5 more years of school, and god bless them for their dedication and hard work. Where I live, LPN’s take 16 months, RN’s take 4 years. When it all boils down to it, RN’s have the deeper medical knowledge. Still…LPN’s train for specific tasks which HELP RN’s practice to their highest ability because LPNs can do tasks that a lot of RN’s consider below them or not to their highest scope of practice.
Long story short (too late for that) – RNs everywhere claim to be overworked. If it weren’t for the duties of LPNs, how much more overworked would they claim to be?
While both jobs differ in knowledge and skill, BOTH are important in their own way. As health care *professionals*, everyone should consider the other as a valuable member of the healthcare team.
sandy ,Tn | Feb 24, 2009 | Reply
what are the different certifications that each must have?
Athena, PCA, LMT | Mar 4, 2009 | Reply
I just had a pretty simple question if anyone can answer it concisely? I would like to know what KIND of work LPN’s do that would make a person want to be an LPN over an RN (not including financial considerations for a moment).
I know that I personally can’t see myself loving doing a bunch of medical plans or management. I know I my love is working directly with people (specifically women) in lower stress non-depressing environments. Could I have that as an LPN or as a RN? If I did end up getting my BSN and didn’t like the work that Title/level of nursing designates would I be able to return to more direct patient care work?
I love health care and care-giving and I love people, I don’t necessarily love administration or management. I prefer non-traditional medicine. And I don’t yet KNOW i will love the western/traditional medical field. I’m finishing massage therapy school right now and LOVE the patient care aspect and I love the human body but I don’t love some other major aspects of it. It has inspired me to pursue the possibility of nursing more and I am trying to soak up as much helpful information as possible.
I love sciences and biology and helping people achieve personal health goals and the highest possible quality of life. But I also want to make a good amount of money and have job security. I don’t completely love traditional medicine but I do love care-giving (I work as a PCA right now with disables adults and really love it) and I love seeing people move into greater physical health….is there a place in nursing for me? Please be kind (there has been a bit of hostility here so I say that with much due awareness). This is a respectful plee for some helpful direction from more experienced individuals in the world of nursing. Thanks!
Star | Mar 18, 2009 | Reply
Athena, it all depends on where you live. Where I am, basically all LPNs can do is work in residential care, so either in facilities or in private homes. However, in these facilities, the LPN has the same duties as the RN; there is no difference between their duties, as the RNs are not given the authority to do as much decision-making as they are trained to do.
As an RN on the other hand there are many more career opportunities and in most settings you are expected to use your critical thinking skills to make decisions, do assessments, etc. I am a student in a BSN program, working as an RCA. Once I am eligible, I will apply to write the LPN exam (we qualify for that during 3rd year of the program). I think working as an LPN will be excellent experience for me and help build many of my skills. However, I do not want to work in geriatrics for my whole career, so I want to get my degree so I have the full range of options available.
The great thing about the nursing field is that you can keep advancing and you can use your earlier certificates to help fund your further education. My long term goal is a Master’s as a Nurse Practitioner. So, it comes down to what you really want to do!
WoW! | Mar 18, 2009 | Reply
All this is unbelieveable! i wanted to be a nurse anestist but ioono now this competitiveness is crazy…lawd!
jamie, NJ | Mar 23, 2009 | Reply
I have a question. I currently have a B.A. (liberal arts). However, I would like to go into nursing. In terms of schooling- I am under the impression that becoming an LPN would require about a year of schooling. If I wanted to go straight for an RN, instead, how long is the process?
What is the difference between an RN with an associates and one with a bachelors degree?
My existing degree would satisfy many of the general education requirements. I am just wondering how much longer it would take to get an RN over an LPN and whether I should consider an associates or bachelor’s RN program.
Tara | Apr 17, 2009 | Reply
clearly papa smirf-rn you are being quite smug as a someone who frequents the hospital scene i can fully say that to LPNs do most of the work, the RNs normally sit on thier asses because they feel they are more educated. umm hello dumbass an LPN can easily go back to school and do what they do. Have you ever thought that maybe its smart to work your way up the ladder so you have more experience under your belt? start off as an LPN and move your way. but i guess you wouldn’t think that far papa smirf as your head is to far up your ass, and by the way it’s sad to see an EDUCATED person speak the way you do about someone els’s career choice but hey i guess the word EDUCATED doesn’t apply to you either.
Michelle-RN | Apr 17, 2009 | Reply
it is sad to someone hate another person’s career choice, but still i would have to say that both types of nurses do the same amount of work, both should be equally respected.
RN Student | Apr 18, 2009 | Reply
In Wisconsin LPNs are making 16-20 dollars per hour. RNs are making 24-27 dollare per hours. LPNs are being hired more than RNs due to the fact that many companies have hiring freezes. Home health, LTC and hospice are turning to LPNs to save money with RNs doing only supervising.
Mark | Apr 18, 2009 | Reply
Ya some of those numbers look pretty off.
At least here in Canada (in British Columbia) LPN’s start at about $24/hour, and RN’s start at about $36/hour. Both jobs are pretty similar, so lots of LPN’s are going back to school so that they can be paid a better wage for the same job.
Orthoworld1 | Apr 25, 2009 | Reply
I have been an Orthopedic Tech for 16 years and on more than one occasion I have had a RN come in and take my job away due them being able to do more. I have a BS in Healthcare Management and can not work as a clinical Manager because I do not have a nursing license. I am considering getting either RN or LPN. There are two schools in my area that offer LPN and only one offers RN. Getting into the RN program is tough considering that they only accept so many applicants per year. Does anyone have any suggestions? As an LPN with a BS in Healthcare Management I dont think I would have any problems.
kaime | Apr 30, 2009 | Reply
papa smirf…your bad as in super bad.,.tsk tsktsk
anna | Apr 30, 2009 | Reply
papa smirf
your not an educated person i think even if your an Rn..,
watch your word.,.Im an RN in profession but i love both profession since theyre helping one another for the sake of the sick people
FLGator | May 1, 2009 | Reply
I could use some advice. I have a B.A from U of F and have been working various jobs since then watching the woman in my family making a good living in the medical field. I am 32, male, like physical work and live in Orlando. I have been to both LPN and RN program info sessions. I can financially do the LPN path and be done in one year and then go on to RN. I am set up to start begin the LPN program this Sept but I am still a little aprehensive. I want to know if there are any stigmas toward male nurses? My girlfriend thinks it is all in my head but I want to hear it from the trenches. Thanks for your help…
natasha | May 3, 2009 | Reply
honestly FLGator i think your girlfriend is right, in my hospital there are a few males nurses and they seem to fit right in although they do admit to being teased outside the hospital by close friends and relatives. if this is sumthing you want to do then you shouldn’t let something so trivial stop you. Best of luck!
one half a century young | May 9, 2009 | Reply
I have been a professional in some capacity all of my life. I am a Medical Office Manager, a Notary Public, A Realtor, and presently
a student nurse going towards my RN from LVN.
I have not witnessed such a hostile and unfriendly demeanor in some time. I have been privy to some of the best minds, etiquette’s, and respective dispositions. I am wondering why an RN with such a hard sought after education, would not realize a Physician can likewise talk down on their lesser status. It does not serve anyone well to be talked down to. If we are truly interested in the “healing arts”, I would say it appears to be necessary in “our own backyard”. I think LVN’s what is the insult to recognize the RN’s level of education? We should always progress as individuals. RN’s what it the problem in recognizing the LVN’s handwork and dedication? If the patient is our ultimate goal?, let’s work together, and stimulate one another to succeed.I have heard ,”nurses eat their young”. Why don’t we encourage and stimulate our young, to become stronger, and further advanced in our profession instead? Wouldn’t this become a happy merger between two parties? I hope to make a difference where ever I work;
Good Luck to You All……..My I be kind, efficient and gracious by the grace of God who created us all,………..
NurseKrys | Jun 1, 2009 | Reply
LVN/LPN versus RN
IV’s–
RN’s = education on how to start and maintain IV’s part of RN curriculum Can give blood, fluids and medications through IV’s and Central Lines.
LVN/LPN = Education on how to start and maintain IV’s NOT part of LPN curriculum but IV certification can be obtained after graduation. Can give blood, fluids through peripheral IV’s only…some states allow LPN’s to administer certain limited medications through peripheral lines only.
Technical Skills–all RN’s and LPN’s are trained for the same basic technical skills. RN’s may receive special training for certain advanced skills (PICC Line insertion, laser treatments)
Payments–RN’s usually make approximatly $10.00 more per hour–give or take.
LPN’s are hired mostly in Long Term Care settings, or clinics, but may be found in some acute settings. RN’s are hired mostly in acute settings and for management type positions
Assessments–both nurses perform assessments, however some places the LPN needs an RN to “sign off” their initial assessment.
Education–RN’s minimum education is an Associate Degree. You can continue your education all the way to Doctorate of Nursing. LPN’s are a vocational program with no degree awarded. Program length in California includes approximately 960 hours of clinical education with about 500 hours of theory education…different schools spread this out over various amounts of time usually lasting at least two semesters or 12 months.
As a staff nurse at various Acute and Long Term Care settings, i have worked with many brilliant LVNs, who’s knowledge of nursing equalled or even surpassed my own as a result of their individual desire to learn. I have learned from many excellent RNs too. I have also worked with some very incompetant RNs as well as LVNs
If your financial situation cant wait 4 years for the RN program (in CA we have about a 2 year wait list and 2 years of classes)and you would prefer to work in Long Term Care situations–get your LVN. If you would rather work in a specialty department…ER, ICU, L&D or even just Med/Surg, and you can wait financially, then get the minimum prerequisites completed so that you can apply to the RN program as soon as possible…
In all honesty, when i have worked in the acute setting, I saw no differences between RN and LVN on the floor, except that I had to hang their IV medications for them (but they made sure the IV was patent and the med was ready and available and that nothing needed to be changed, so all i had to do was practically just connect the solution and start the pump), and I made at least $10.00 more per hour. We were responsible for our own patients. I guess you could say that the LVN was held up to the RN standard as a staff nurse, because we were the same, we floated to other units the same, we took care of the same number of patients, we did the same audits, we cared for the same acuity of patients, we helped each other out. All nurses were expected to have insulin doses (SQ) checked with another nurse as well as having two nurses check blood before it is hung…that could be two RNs or two LVNs or one of each.
On a final note, with the exception of the first couple of posts…i do not see any kind of pissing contest, nor do i see any animosity between the RNs and LVNs…i see nurses sharing their situations across the nation. I see each of us showing that each state, each type of facility has a different set of rules under which RNs and LVNs are allowed to practice. The first time i read an LVN say they could hang antibiotics…I kinda freaked out…till I realized they were in a different state and each state has their own rules for scope of practice. Each state has different rules for acute care versus long term care versus home care and what “nurses” can do in each of those settings. I must be stupid, because I cannot see any hatred between “us” and “them” I only see what nurses do all the time…collaborate with their peers and learn new things about nursing. Take care all…i look forward to working with each of you someday in the future.
FI | Jun 10, 2009 | Reply
I have a BA in Interdisciplinary studies. I want some opinions if it would be wise to gain some experience in lpn field or just do rn?
AK63 | Jun 11, 2009 | Reply
FYI- to cmw #30 check your spelling.
Tammy | Jun 11, 2009 | Reply
Seriously get a grip…. I am a LPN by choice to obtain my RN is only 2 more quarters were do you think LPN\’s only go to school for one year I have the same Pre courses as an RN matter of fact I have enough classes to go into a Bachelors program. It took me 3 years to do my LPN. I am currently a RCM making 27 an hour in long term care were as my girlfriends just starting out as RN\’s in the hospital are starting at 25. The ONLY diffrence between RN and LPN is the letters. I do IV\’s, I push meds,I make decisions everyday on the care of my patients. I do not have to go to any RN in my building to implement any decision I make. Many of the RN\’s in my building come to me for advice just as I do them. NOt as a Letter behind our names but as co-workers taking care of people who can not do this for themselves.I also have gained the respect of many doctors and fellow nurses and would not have any trouble getting a high paying \”LPN\” position.Trust me when I say I could pass the RN boards right now as we speak. Will I go o n to obtain my RN, absolutly I want to teach that is the only reason. I hope when I do teach I can remember to remind peopel to be proud of what they do requardless if they have from A to Z behind there name. If any \”RN\” would care to go nurse to nurse with knowledge I\’m game anytime. TO all of you wonderful LPNRNBSN nurses out there thank you all for your hard work…….
spanky81 | Jun 11, 2009 | Reply
Hey PapaSmirf-RN(Really Nasty)
I would much rather have a seasoned LPN take care of me any day. Does it take a BA to criticize professionals? If you would like to pay for my schooling I will gladly go back to school to earn an RN degree, but if they’re teaching you to say things like sloppy bitch work, I’ll pass. Perhaps a course in Human Relations for yourself.
inshock | Jun 13, 2009 | Reply
I have a friend where she is very sensitive when i tease her about the difference between rn and lpn. My mother was an rn and my friend is a practical nurse apparently a manager now in an elderly hospital. First, i do not understand why someone who went to community college would say that she is almost or the same as someone who went to university to become an rn…It is an insult to those rn that studied for 4 years in a university ,where it cost so much money and not to mention the studies they are going through. Let\’s put this like that: How an ingenier would feel if a technical engineer who studied for 2-3 years in only a community college,tells himself that is as qualified as an engineer who spend a LOT of time in books at the university
I think the lpn has to stop being so touchy and accept that they just dont have the same level of education that the RN in university has….even if it is an amirable job…the lpn needs to out of respect for the registered nurses,understand that university is far more different then college….and the knowledge as well….we all know that the lpn works hard but you can even see the difference when you even meet an rn and a lpn…by the level of professionalism…
Eric | Jun 30, 2009 | Reply
I am an LVN in California. Tricia, LVN’s need RN supervision hun. You have no idea how RN’s education is like. You are a student but apparently you haven’t got into yet. ADPIE, critical thinking and a lot more are what’s lacking with LVN education.
mark | Jul 11, 2009 | Reply
I am 25 years old, male and very soon I have to make decision whether to take the Lpn program or the Rn. I feel that I should take the Lpn programs for the lengthy of time is shorter then the Rn program as well as to see whether I really like to work as nurse as Lpn or Rn as my future career. I am also curios to see why nursing for men is very strange as compared to female nurses. Although there is a good chance of job security which is part of my reason I considered of taking nursing careers.
I will appreciate for your suggestions.
Alisa | Aug 11, 2009 | Reply
Hi everyone, thanks for all the info. I didn’t read all of the posts because most of them are repetitive. (sorry if my spelling is off, retired (on disability) special ed teacher and out of practice…lol). One of my closest, dearest, and best friends, was pinned today. My Mom and I were talking about the difference between RN and LPN….my friend is now an LPN.
This brilliant woman that I love like a sister, quite school and got married at 17 to get out of an abusive home. For most of her adult life, she has struggled as a single mom of 3 boys…a lot of the time without transportation, and even loosing everything she owns in a house fire. I’ve known her to walk from the small town she lives in to the next town where her school is just to go to class. Does it really matter what the difference in the two are, when she has struggled, beat the odds, and made something of her life????
April of 06, my dad passed away. He was a cancer patient…he beat the battle, but his body lost the war. Those wonderful ladies who stayed by his side the last week of his life. The ones who comferted us, the family. The ones who will go out of their way to see us, just to give us hugs and see how we are doing….does it really matter what degree they hold or how much money they make????
Last June my sister was diagnosed with cancer…..terminal…. We weren’t even given a time-line. We were lucky to have had her with us until October. The countless nurses in and out to the home, in the hospitals….the ones that stood by our family as we watched her rapidly slip away….they were there for us as well as for her…..Did their degrees matter?????????
My daughter is expecting her first baby, my first grandchild, my mom’s first great grandchild. After each appt she calls and tells me what the nurses and doctor had to say…..Not LPN or RN….nurse.
My Mom’s nurse….not LPN or RN…but her nurse calls everyday that my mom doesn’t have dialysis to see how she is doing, how dialysis went….The title to us is NURSE!!!!!!!!!!!!! The one who is here for us, the patients, the family….NOT RN OR LPN.
SO………………RNs go to school longer, pay more money to go to school, have more independance (in some situations), make more money (in some cases), and (sometimes) have better working conditions, but you guys do the same thing, you are NURSES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Does that pretty much sum it up????????? It does for me and my family. The only thing that matters to us is that there are NURSES available when we need them. Thanks for all that you do…..both of you!
Joseph | Aug 21, 2009 | Reply
Actually you are 100% wrong! I am an RN and it is most definitely true that an LPN functions in a “dependent” role, meaning that he/she needs to work under the supervision of a registered professional nurse or a physician.
Sara | Sep 7, 2009 | Reply
Sharon,
Applying CNA to LPN or RN will probably depend on where you live and where you go to school. At the school I will be attending in the fall, CNA I’s get five points toward admission points and CNA II’s get ten points.
Melanie | Sep 9, 2009 | Reply
I am an LPN and have been for 3.5 yrs. I am not feeling the love among the LPN’s and RN’s here. You all need to realize that you all play a significant role in the medical field. There is alot of talk about salary between the two and where you can work. I have worked in private practice, nursing homes, and I am currently an LPN in Labor and Delivery. So there are a variety of opportunities out there for both. And as for my pay I currently make $25 per hour not including shift diff and weekend diff. On top of that I get alot of experience. There are SOP laws that we as nurses are all aware of. My problem is with the RN’s that treat LPN’s as if they are nothing. We to are proud of our accomplishments and will notbe taken forgranted. The RN’s on my unit love me because I am there taking up the slack, RN’s are great but they count on LPN’s quite a bit. And RN’s need to realize that you were not born RN’s you became one and just like you anyone can do it if they want it bad enough. I am enrolled now doing a bridge for the LPN to RN and very soon I will wear the GREAT RN name, but the difference is I will remember where I came from, and I will teach my LPN sisters everything I know to help them succeed. LPN’s are the bomb.com
Gary | Sep 11, 2009 | Reply
My wife is an LPN as well as my mother. All my aunts are RN’s(a couple with master’s degrees). My mother and wife make more money than most RNs including my aunts. In most cases RNs are paid more but because of the severe shortage in the North East U.S(New York, Connecticut, etc) LPNs are assuming the roles of RNs and are getting paid extremely well($30-50 w/ per diem or pick up bonuses). LPNs are limited to certain job positions….because of this my wife is pursuing her associates RN. My mother on the other hand does private nursing in NYC and loves her job therefore will not pursue an RN degree. Nursing nowadays is just like the military – if there is no higher ranking officer to perform a duty, the next person down the ladder gets the job. I don’t think that it is a good idea for a person to go to a 4 year University to get a job that could be obtained in 2 with an Associates degree. A 4 year degree is great to get you into a graduate school to obtain APRN or PA – if this is your goal….go for it. A person ultimately can’t lose with picking nursing as a profession…..just don’t waste time in school being a Medical Assistant.
heatherLPN | Oct 1, 2009 | Reply
I’m a new LPN grad from Ohio and here there is not much difference between LPN and RN. LPNs can’t start an IV on minors, and we can’t hang the initial bag, or give some IV push meds. We don’t assess, we “data collect” witch is practically the same thing. Of course we are in a dependent role, but that is not meant to imply the RN is supervising the LPN in the employment context, it is defined ad communicating a plan of care to an LPN. I have many friends in RN programs and I plan to get my RN as well, but lots of those friends don’t seem to be learning as much as I did and are often asking me questions I can easily answer. All throughout school my teachers would say “if you know this you’ll know more than a lot of RNs”. I’m not bashing RNs, of course I hope to be one soon, I just think LPNs are under estimated and under appreciated. I think getting an LPN first allows you to gain even more knowledge and will make getting your RN easy financially and academically. Many hospitals around here will help pay, and may even pay in full for an LPN to get a RN degree.
Lola. RN.BSN.OR.RN. | Oct 4, 2009 | Reply
I think that my education as a Registered Nurse should be recognized. I spent 4 years obtaining this degree, learning theory and critical thinking and how to associate patient condition and factors related to illness or state. I have exclusive knowledge in pathophysiology and anatomy, also over 1000hrs of clinical experience with various client situations. I was educated as an LPN originally and didn’t learn 1/4 as much as I have learned as an RN. All of the information covered and theory I learned as an LPN was covered in my first semester of my Bachelor of Nursing program. So I do think that RNs are well educated and have the ability and competancy to contribute to the health care team and administer quality patient care as well as patient rapport. As for LPNs their scope of practice is seriously limited and almost fully related to specific duties and not to critical thinking because they are not educated in that manner…LPNs are skills based and always will be!!!! I believe I have earned my $40/hr wage as an RN through my education and specialization in OR Nursing. There is no way that a hospital in their right mind would hire a minimal educated LPN over a specialized Bachelor of Nursing holder….so yes there is a difference and yes it should be recognized!!!! I am a proud RN and i know I am heavily well more educated then any LPN…if an LPN wants to argue this fact…..go back to school and upgrade your core subjects then apply for your Bachelor of Nursing…..it is a very competative program so be prepared to have a transfer GPA of 3.2….also, 90% of University programs do not transfer any courses from the LPN program my University didn’t!!!!…My LPN didn’t account for anything transfer wise as it shouldn’t!!! So quit whining and go out there and become an RN before you try to claim equality in the fields of Nursing!!!because in my opinion they are not equal….and I always want to be noted for my RN degree that I worked so hard for!!!!!There is more than a 2yr education difference and LPNs can never specialize so think about it?????….you obviously couldn’t get your pure math or chemistry or else you would probably be an RN instead of an LPN!!!!…..don’t hate….just go get more education so that you have the ability to proclaim your equality!!!…blah……so silly you lil LPNs!!!!
Anita Ann Allen | Oct 22, 2009 | Reply
Tricia honey obviously you are not a very good at reading or maybe comprehension?? Alot of the things that you are “up in arms” about. The author did mention those items in the article. such as LPN’s tend to me in managerial positions in nursing homes… Maybe you should re-read the article and use those critical thinking skills that are sooo very important to an R.N and just you sound judgement before YOU make such false statements…
LisaLPN | Oct 30, 2009 | Reply
If you want to be respected by your patients because you provide the actual loving, hands on care that the patients expect to receive from their knowledgable “nurse” such as giving shots, inserting foley caths, irrigating foley caths, replacing feeding tubes when necessary and giving food through the tubes, taking vital signs, starting IV’s and giving basic IV fluids and IV antibiotics, doing EKG’s, drawing blood (some states), giving medications, treating wounds and changing bandages, monitoring every aspect of the patient’s plan of care for positive results, calling doctors to report that meds, treatments, etc., are not working and suggesting new meds and treatments, having labs done as ordered and reviewing the results and reporting them to the docs, ordering xrays, therapies, giving breathing treatments, providing oxygen, checking oxygen levels, cleaning and suctioning and changing trach tubes, providing cool mist and ventilator tubes when ordered, observing any and all problems for improvement or worsening and reporting the outcomes to the docs along with continuously monitoring not only the known problems but also any new problems that arise that you catch because you are very skilled at this continuous assessment of each patient that you are responsible for because YOU are THE NURSE that provides nursing care to the patient on a daily basis. You will also need to monitor the patients bowel and bladderfunctions, heart fucntions, liver functions, lung functions, every gland function they have, their sleep patterns, their eating habits, oh and their weight, their blood sugars, their insulin needs, their dialysis schedules and outcomes, monitor for edema, pain, swelling, redness, infection, fractures, knots, bumps, cuts, breathing problems, heart attacks, strokes, bowel impactions, bleeding anywhere and everywhere, viruses, contagious diseases, depression, anxiety, restlessness, comfort level in every way imaginable, and don’t forget their family relationships, finances, support systems, mental status, hearing, eyesight, dental status, therapy sessions (physical, speech, occupational, psychological, etc) and any and all doctor’s appointments, surgery appointments, labs, xrays, etc. You will take care of their post-surgical incisions and bandages, their casts & crutches & walkers, their special footwear, braces, splints, prosthetic devices, hearing aides, dentures, wigs (lol), you will let them cry on your shoulder, you will hold their hand while they try not to cry, you will give them advice, you will help them with their makeup, peri pads, hair do’s, their paperwork, you will refer them to whoever they need for whatever they need, and I could go on & on with this list of what you will be expected to do and to know as an LPN but it can easily be summed up with these few words: YOU WILL DO EVERYTHING FOR YOUR PATIENT (EXCEPT GIVE THEM BLOOD & IV MEDICATIONS) then you will report it all to the RN Supervisor who’s holding a pen & a clipboard at the end of your spectacular 13 or so hour shift asking you how YOUR patients did today (and you will learn to speak quickly to this RN supervisor if you expect to hit the highlights of all the important, abnormal stuff that you know needs reported ’cause it’s “important”, but damn it she’s already looking at her watch and tapping her pencil on the clipboard while rolling her eyes and yawning and you havn’t even gotten past the 2nd patient of your 30 so you won’t get to finish your report cause she ain’t hangin’ around long enough to listen to ya!!) She goes back to the office, sits back down in her big leather chair and reads a magazine while waiting on the next RN Supervisor to come in so she can say “everything was fine, it was a good night, everybody’s OK, no one died, see ya later” and runs out the door at 7:03. The silly, little LPN (I mean the NURSE) who just worked her ass off for 13 hours will now sit down for another 1 to 2 hours and document everything she did and didn’t do for each and every patient for her shift because she can’t leave till she does her paperwork. This is usually a good time for her to drag her lunch bag out and chew on a dried up sandwich while she’s writing cause she freakin’ starving, wore out, half brain dead and unable to even think by now cause this is the first chance she’s had to sit down for more than a few minutes. HOWEVER, as this exhausting feeling of tiredness and mental depletion suddenly consumes her while she sits there doing her paper work and chewing on a cardboard sandwich wondering WHY IN THE HELL she ever, ever, ever became a nurse (LPN) the most satisfying (crazy I know) thing happens to make her smile and feel like she just might get through this shift afterall: patients and family members start wondering by the desk and they know your tired and trying to finish up your work without being bothered one more time but they quickly just want to say, “thank you for being such a good nurse to mom, she really likes you” or the patient will say “honey you look so tired, I don’t know how you do it, are you back tomorrow, i hope you are cause your a good nurse, I like you”. And when you look up with half a frown on your face because you’d just like to get one sentence written without being interrupted, but you want to acknowledge that they just gave you a compliment without showing your frustration it all seems worth it as you smile broadly and reach across the counter to take the special piece of candy that your number one turd of the day saved just for you. (and that #1 turd won’t care to tell you either that she didn’t give that ‘other’ nurse (RN) a piece of her special candy cause she doesn’t care too much for her because she wouldn’t help you if her life depended on it) lolololololol.
So, there you have it. Do you want to be the nurse or do you want to be the lady with the clipboard who doesn’t know shit about YOUR patients????? You decide.
future nursing student | Oct 30, 2009 | Reply
wow!! this is a trip! I wanted to do nursing, but my goodness this is a complete cat fight between RN and LPNs…who cares, as a patient, i don’t care as long as you are a NURSE! and really it all boils down to what you are happy doing. If you are content as an LPN, then be the best damn LPN there is. Money does not make the person. Character does. I’d be perfectly happy as an LPN as long as my bills are paid, a roof is over my head and my family is well taken care of. Money is not an issue. Nursing is about compassion for others!
Marcia | Nov 5, 2009 | Reply
Melanie that was well said, I am currently laid off and am looking into becoming a LPN, although I do NOT like Nursing Homes. I too would LOVE to work in L&D…if only your message could be heard loud in clear by RN\’s maybe YOU could make the world a better place….
Anita A. Allen | Nov 14, 2009 | Reply
WOW!!! Somebody’s a lil pissy or maybe just a bit angry. wouldnt want YOU takin care of me or my loved one. Maybe you need a break, vacation, new job??????? lol…. chill…