Sometimes, it can be hard to tell the distinction between Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses. This is because in some ways, RNs and LPNs are similar. The essential tasks that they perform are the same: they both care for people suffering illness or injury, they provide medical and functional assistance, and they help patients live without pain as much as possible. In the medical system they are valued for their talents and skills and both of their jobs are emotionally, mentally, and physically demanding.
On the other hand, there are also several differences in the two types of professions such as workplace settings, types of duties performed, level of responsibility, years of education and rate of pay. An RN has a professional nursing degree (18-36 months), and often a baccalaureate degree. An LPN has a practical nursing degree (as few as 12 months), or a two year practical nursing diploma from an accredited college.
Registered Nurses
An RN has more of a critical thinking role in the healthcare setting. They administer medications, treatments, offer educational advice to patients & the public, and have a higher earning potential. Other duties include coordinating patient plans, running diagnostic tests and analyzing the results, advising post-treatment health management plans to patients, and overseeing other professionals such as LPNs, nursing aides and home care aides. Most RNs work in the hospital while a small portion (about 6%) works in long term care.
RNs have more opportunities for professional advancement and more options for positions and specializations. As an RN, there are many occasions for advancement in leadership positions. Also, Registered Nurses have more flexibility to tailor their job based on their specific skills and interests. For example, a nurse could focus on diabetes management or pediatrics. Alternatively an RN can choose to work in a specific workplace such as a hospital or in a school. Furthermore, there are several specialization options such as surgery, psychiatrics, community health, occupational health, emergency, etc.
Licensed Practical Nurses
Licensed Practical Nurses often require the supervision of Registered Nurses. Their work duties include basic medical and nursing care. For example, LPNs are responsible for checking blood pressure, inserting catheters, bathing & dressing, discussing health care with patients, reporting the status of a patient to RNs and doctors, etc.
There are many settings that an LPN can work at. At the hospital, these nurses provide care to patients who have just undergone surgery or are acutely ill. Most community hospitals hire LPNs and the work schedule is usually 12 hour shifts with rotating weekend shifts. Rehabilitation is another setting. LPNs can work with a team or RNs, occupational therapists, physical therapists and speech therapists to help a patient recover from an injury or disease. Licensed Practical Nurses can also work in a nursing home for patients who’s recovery has plateaued. In the home care setting, LPNs provide additional support to a patient continuing their recovery at home. For instance, some patients require care a few hours a day while others need to receive care round the clock. An LPN would support the family so that they are able to sleep.