What's the difference between an RN and an LPN?

Answer 1

An RN is a registered nurse who holds at least an associates degree, but in most cases usually a bachelor's degree. An LPN is a licensed practical nurse. These nurses are graduates of programs that are generally about 18-20 months in length. They are known as LVN (licensed vocational nurse) in my state, but it is the same thing. Both professions are required to take an exam upon graduation from a nursing school, are licensed, have to complete continuing education units every year, etc. The job difference vary from state to state depending on regulations. In my state, California, LPN can start IV's but not push IV meds for example.
If you are considering one versus the other, look at the time commitment you have for school, the cost of each program and pre-requisites. Many schools offer LPN to RN step up programs. This is a good option if you want to start work soon and are thinking of one day getting a bachelor's degree.

Answer 2

You can earn a LPN certificate with only a few months of training and by taking a board exam. You will not have all the responsibilities of an RN. You can earn a RN by taking about 2 years of college study and passing a state licencing exam. Nurses with a four year bachelor's degree have the opportunity to go further in the field by going into management positions or specializing into areas like nurse practitioner, anesthsiology, much more; of course with comensurate higher salaries. Many of the more prestigeous hospitals only hire B.S.N. degree recipients, and do not hire LPNs at all. Before pursing study in this area talk to people already in nursing. There is a reason for a nursing shortage. It's not because of the lack of qualified people.
Many, like people going into teaching ,are lured by a three day work week in nursing or Summer vacation for teachers find the job too difficult and/or stressful ,and resign after a short perion of time. Do some research.

Answer 3

RN is registered nurse with a minimum of associate degree, must pass a state board to be licensed.. LPN is licensed practical nurse, a diploma from technical school or college, must pass a state board to be licensed. Some states refer to LPN as LVN, licensed vocational nurse. All can administer medications & provide patient care under physicians orders. RN's receive more education & it is reflected in their level of responsibility & paycheck.

Answer 4

An RN in America is a Registered Nurse; an LPN is a Licensed Practical Nurse. RNs are trained in all areas of nursing and are mandatory in areas like Emergency Medicine and surgical teams. They assist in difficult procedures like amputations and problematic childbirth. A famous fictional RN is Margaret Houlihan on "M*A*S*H".

LPNs are trained only in the basics of nursing, such as taking blood samples, checking the patient's pulse & blood pressure, and in cases where doctors & RNs are short-handed, assisting in minor procedures like giving shots and suturing wounds. They also do less-fun jobs like emptying bedpans.

Answer 5

my wife says the difference between and rn and an lpn is that an lpn knows what to do, an rn knows why you need to do it. that and in our state an lpn can not push IV drugs, only and rn can.

Answer 6

RN= Registered Nurse
Have never heard of a LPN, we dont have them here in Australia.

Answer 7

LPN= Licensed piratical nurse
RN= Registered Nurse.
Bye

Answer 8

A registered nurse has at the very least a BS in nursing, and is registered with the National Board of Nurse Registry. They are highly skilled to administer drugs and other tasks beyonf that of a less qualified LPN, who in many place don't have to have a college degree.

Answer 9

RNs are considered to be a higher qualification, requiring at least an associates degree in most (if not all) states. LPN is a vocational qualification/licensure, and can't do as much.

Answer 10

Registered Nurse 4 year University degree Licensed Practical Nurse 2 year University degree.