LPN vs. RN: Understanding the Differences and Career Paths

Choosing between a career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and a registered nurse (RN) requires considering several factors. Both paths offer unique opportunities, but they differ significantly in terms of duties, education, certifications, work settings, and career prospects. Here, we explore the key differences between LPN vs. RN careers and how both roles contribute to quality healthcare.

Duties of LPN vs. RN

While both LPNs and RNs are involved in patient care, RNs have more responsibilities and a higher level of autonomy. RNs are trained to perform complex procedures, make critical decisions, and develop comprehensive care plans, whereas LPNs focus on basic patient care and assist with daily activities.

LPN duties

LPNs provide basic nursing care under the supervision of RNs and physicians. Their duties include:

Patient care: Assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding
Vital signs: Monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse
Wound care: Changing dressings and treating wounds
Medication administration: Administering oral medications and injections
Patient records: Maintaining accurate patient records and reporting changes in patients’ conditions to other members of the healthcare team

RN duties

RNs have a broader scope of practice compared to LPNs. Their duties include:

Patient assessment: Conducting comprehensive assessments and developing care plans
Administering medications: Administering medications, including intravenous (IV) drugs
Patient education: Talking through health issues and treatment plans with patients and families
Supervising LPNs: Overseeing the work of LPNs and nursing assistants
Complex procedures: Performing procedures, such as starting IVs, inserting catheters, and managing ventilators, which require more education and training

Education requirements for LPN vs. RN

LPN education

Program length: LPN programs typically take about 12-18 months to complete.
Coursework: LPN course loads include subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and basic nursing skills.
Clinical experience: LPNs get hands-on clinical training in various healthcare settings.

RN education

Program length: RN programs can vary in length depending on the degree pursued. An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) typically takes two to three years, while a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) takes about four years.
Coursework: RNs take courses on advanced subjects such as pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, nursing research, and leadership.
Clinical experience: RNs sign up for extensive clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings.

Certifications for LPN vs. RN

LPN certifications

NCLEX-PN: LPNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain licensure.
Specialty certifications: LPNs can pursue additional certifications in areas such as IV therapy, long-term care, and wound care to enhance their skills and career prospects.

RN certifications

NCLEX-RN: RNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure.
Specialty certifications: RNs can obtain certifications in various specialties such as critical care (CCRN), oncology (OCN), pediatrics (CPN), and many others. These certifications often require additional experience and passing a specialty exam.

Work settings for LPNs vs. RNs

Both LPNs and RNs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and in home healthcare.

LPNs often find more opportunities in settings such as:

Nursing homes: A significant number of LPNs work in long-term care facilities, providing daily care and support to residents.
Rehabilitation centers: LPNs assist patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or illnesses.

RNs are more commonly found in:

Hospitals: RNs are integral to hospital care teams, working in various departments such as intensive care units (ICUs), operating rooms, and maternity wards.
Specialty clinics: RNs often work in specialized clinics such as oncology, cardiology, or pediatric care.

Next career steps for LPN vs. RN

LPNs have several options for advancing their careers, including:

LPN-to-RN programs: Many LPNs choose to advance their careers by enrolling in LPN-to-RN bridge programs, which allow them to become RNs.
Specialty certifications: Obtaining certifications in specialized areas can lead to higher-paying positions and increased responsibilities.
Supervisory roles: With experience, LPNs can take on supervisory roles in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.

RNs have a broader range of opportunities for career advancement, such as:

Advanced practice roles: RNs can pursue advanced degrees to become nurse practitioners (NPs), clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), or nurse midwives (CNMs).
Leadership positions: RNs can move into management and leadership roles, such as Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing, or Chief Nursing Officer (CNO).
Teaching and research: RNs with advanced degrees can become nursing educators or researchers, contributing to the development of the nursing profession.

Salary and job outlook

LPN salary and job outlook

Salary: The median annual salary for LPNs in the United States, according to Nurse.com’s 2024 Nurse Salary and Work-Life Report, is $58,000, though this can vary based on location, experience, and workplace setting.
Job outlook: Employment for LPNs is projected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), due to an aging population and the increasing need for healthcare services.

RN salary and job outlook

Salary: The median annual salary for LPNs in the United States, according to Nurse.com’s 2024 Nurse Salary and Work-Life Report, is $80,000, with variations based on location, experience, and specialty.
Job outlook: Employment for RNs is projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, according to the BLS, driven by the demand for healthcare services and the need for a highly skilled nursing workforce.

Personal considerations

Choosing between an LPN and RN career also depends on a person’s personal circumstances and career goals. Consider the following factors:

Time commitment: LPN programs are shorter, allowing individuals to enter the workforce sooner, while RN programs require a longer educational commitment but offer more career opportunities.
Career goals: If someone aspires to take on advanced practice roles, leadership positions, or specialized nursing fields, an RN career might be more suitable.
Financial considerations: Consider the cost of education and potential earnings when deciding. RNs typically have higher earning potential but require a larger investment in education.

Deciding between an LPN vs. RN career involves weighing various factors, including duties, education requirements, certifications, work settings, and future career opportunities. Understanding the key differences between the two roles and keeping personal goals and circumstances in mind, will help in choosing the right nursing path.