LPN vs. RN | Eagle Gate College

Understanding the differences in roles, education, and career paths to help you choose the right nursing path.

Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) play pivotal roles in delivering quality care and ensuring the well-being of patients across diverse healthcare settings. While their responsibilities and scopes of practice differ, both professions are integral to the smooth functioning of healthcare teams. This article explores the unique contributions of RNs and LPNs, delving into their distinct roles, educational requirements, and career pathways. Whether you’re considering a nursing career or seeking clarity on the differences between these roles, understanding their significance is essential for appreciating the foundation of patient-centered care and the multiple avenues available to enter this rewarding profession.

LPN vs. RN: Overview of Roles

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) serve critical roles in healthcare, each with unique responsibilities and scopes of practice. This section provides a concise comparison of their duties, highlighting how both contribute to patient care and overall healthcare delivery.

What is a Licensed Practical Nurse?

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a vital member of the healthcare team, providing hands-on patient care under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and physicians. LPNs typically focus on essential nursing tasks such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, assisting with daily living activities, and maintaining patient comfort. Their role is crucial in settings like long-term care facilities, clinics, and hospitals, where their practical skills ensure patients receive consistent, quality care.

What is a Registered Nurse?

A Registered Nurse (RN) plays a broader and often more complex role in healthcare, serving as both a caregiver and a coordinator of patient care. RNs assess patient conditions, create and manage care plans, administer treatments, and provide education to patients and their families. With advanced training and a more expansive scope of practice, RNs often take on leadership roles and work in diverse environments such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community health programs. Their expertise is essential in ensuring comprehensive and effective healthcare delivery.

LPN vs. RN: Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) defines their responsibilities and limits in patient care. While LPNs focus on providing essential, direct care under supervision, RNs have a broader scope that includes advanced clinical tasks, care planning, and leadership roles. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right nursing path.

What Does an LPN Do?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) focus on delivering essential, hands-on patient care under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) or physicians. Their primary responsibilities include, but is not limited to:

Administering medications and monitoring for side effects.
Performing wound care, including cleaning and dressing wounds.
Measuring and recording vital signs such as blood pressure and temperature.
Assisting patients with daily activities, including bathing, dressing, and mobility.
Collecting and document patient data for review by RNs or physicians.
Providing emotional support and basic patient education.
Working under the supervision of RNs or physicians to deliver quality care.

What Does an RN Do?

Registered Nurses (RNs) play a dynamic role in healthcare, with an expanded scope of practice that allows them to take on greater responsibilities and provide more complex care. Here are some of the key duties that RNs perform to support patient health and the overall healthcare team.

Develop and implement individualized patient care plans.
Perform diagnostic tests and interpret results to guide treatment.
Administer medications and complex treatments, such as IV therapies.
Educate patients and their families on managing health conditions and recovery.
Monitor patient progress and adjust care plans as needed.
Provide critical support in emergency situations and advanced procedures.
Supervise LPNs and other healthcare workers, ensuring quality care delivery.
Collaborate with physicians and the healthcare team to coordinate comprehensive care.

LPN vs. RN: Work Environment

Where Do LPNs Work?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) work in a variety of healthcare settings, providing essential care across diverse environments. Common work settings include:

Hospitals: LPNs assist with patient care in various departments, supporting RNs and physicians.
Long-term care facilities: LPNs provide ongoing care for elderly or chronically ill patients, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
Home healthcare: LPNs visit patients in their homes to provide care, such as administering medications and monitoring health conditions.
Clinics: LPNs work in outpatient settings, assisting with routine patient assessments and treatments.
Specialized settings: LPNs may also work in pediatrics, gerontology, and other specialty areas, delivering targeted care to specific patient populations.

These varied environments allow LPNs to gain diverse experience and contribute significantly to patient care across the healthcare spectrum.

Where Do RNs Work?

Registered Nurses (RNs) are employed in a wide range of healthcare environments, where they provide advanced patient care and coordinate treatments. Common settings for RNs include:

Hospitals: RNs work in various departments, including medical-surgical, maternity, and intensive care units, providing direct care and support for patients.
Outpatient care centers: RNs assist with diagnostics, treatments, and patient education in clinics, dialysis centers, and rehabilitation facilities.
Schools: RNs manage student health, provide emergency care, and support students with chronic health conditions in educational settings.
Specialized areas: RNs can work in more focused roles like surgery, critical care, and emergency medicine, where they use advanced skills and knowledge to manage complex patient conditions.

These diverse opportunities allow RNs to specialize in areas of interest, expanding their expertise and impact on patient care.

LPN vs. RN: Education and Training

The educational paths to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) are distinct, reflecting the differences in their roles, responsibilities, and scope of practice. While both paths require formal training and clinical experience, RNs typically undergo a more extensive education, preparing them for a broader range of duties in patient care. This section explores the education and training required for each profession.

LPN Program

To become an LPN, individuals must complete a state-approved vocational nursing program. These programs are designed to equip students with the foundational skills needed for direct patient care.
The curriculum covers basic nursing topics such as anatomy and physiology, patient care techniques, medication administration, and wound care. Students also gain hands-on clinical experience in healthcare settings to develop practical skills.
LPN programs typically last between 12 to 18 months, allowing students to quickly enter the workforce and begin providing essential care to patients.
Click here to learn about Eagle Gate College’s Practical Nursing program.

RN Program

The path to becoming an RN generally involves completing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The ADN is typically a 2-year program, while the BSN usually takes 4 years to complete.
RN programs offer a more comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced patient care techniques, critical thinking, leadership, and nursing research. RNs are trained to assess patient conditions, develop care plans, and supervise other healthcare professionals.
During their education, students also complete clinical rotations in various healthcare settings to gain hands-on experience in different specialties such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and surgery.
Click here to learn about Eagle Gate College’s BSN program.

LPN vs. RN: Certification and Licensing Requirements

Both Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) are required to meet specific certification and licensing standards to practice legally. While the process for each differs in some respects, both require passing an exam and fulfilling ongoing educational and renewal requirements to maintain licensure. This section outlines the certification and licensing requirements for both LPNs and RNs.

LPN Certification and Licensing Requirements

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), individuals must first complete an accredited vocational nursing program. Upon graduation, they must pass the NCLEX-PN exam, which assesses their knowledge and ability to provide safe and effective care.
After passing the NCLEX-PN, LPNs are granted licensure to practice in their state of residence.
LPNs must meet continuing education requirements and periodically renew their licenses, which ensures they stay up to date with the latest nursing practices and healthcare regulations. These requirements vary by state, but they typically include a combination of coursework and clinical hours.

Check out the NCLEX-PN Study Guide for valuable tips on how to prepare for the licensing exam.

RN Certification and Licensing Requirements

Registered Nurses (RNs) must complete their nursing education, either through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. This exam evaluates their ability to deliver safe and effective care across a wide range of patient scenarios.
Once the NCLEX-RN is passed, RNs are licensed to practice nursing, and they must maintain this licensure throughout their careers.
Ongoing Requirements: RNs are required to meet continuing education and licensing renewal standards to keep their knowledge current and comply with state regulations. These requirements vary by state but generally include a certain number of continuing education credits, professional development activities, and periodic license renewal.

Check out the NCLEX-RN Study Guide for valuable tips on how to prepare for the licensing exam.

LPN vs. RN: Salary

Salaries for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) vary widely based on factors such as location, healthcare setting, experience, and educational background. While both roles are well-compensated for the important work they do, Registered Nurses generally earn a higher salary* due to their broader responsibilities and more extensive training.

How Much Do LPNs Make?

The salary for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) is typically around $60,000 per year, according to the BLS This salary depends on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, and the healthcare setting.
LPNs usually earn an hourly wage, which can vary by shift, location, and type of employer. Salaries may be higher in certain regions or specialized settings like home healthcare or long-term care facilities.

How Much Do RNs Make?

Registered Nurses (RNs) generally earn a higher salary than LPNs, with annual earnings ranging around $77,000. On average, according to the BLS. Factors such as experience, education, and geographical location can cause this range to expand significantly.
RNs typically have opportunities for pay increases based on experience, specialization, and additional certifications. Those who work in specialized areas like critical care, surgery, or emergency medicine can see substantial salary increases as they gain expertise and take on more responsibility.

LPN vs. RN: Job Outlook

The job outlook for both Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) remains strong, driven by an aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services. While the specifics of the job market vary for each role, both LPNs and RNs have promising career prospects, with opportunities across diverse healthcare settings.

LPN Job Outlook

The demand for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) is expected to grow 3 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations, according to BLS data. This is driven by the increasing need for healthcare services, especially in long-term care settings.
Long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and home healthcare, are key areas where LPNs are in high demand, as many elderly individuals require ongoing medical assistance.
LPNs can also find job opportunities in rehabilitation centers, outpatient care settings, and clinics. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the need for skilled LPNs to provide basic patient care will remain strong.

RN Job Outlook

According to the BLS, the job outlook for Registered Nurses (RNs) is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
RNs have opportunities to work in a variety of specialized settings, such as critical care, surgery, and emergency medicine, where their advanced training and clinical expertise are essential.
In addition to clinical roles, RNs can also pursue leadership positions, such as nurse managers or nurse educators, with the potential to take on supervisory and administrative responsibilities. These opportunities offer career advancement and higher earning potential.

LPN vs. RN: Career Advancement Opportunities

Both Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) have opportunities for career advancement, though the pathways and potential for growth differ due to the scope of practice and educational requirements for each role. With dedication and continued education, both LPNs and RNs can expand their careers in various ways, from pursuing specialized roles to leadership positions.

LPN Career Advancement Opportunities

Education and Transition to RN: LPNs can advance their careers by pursuing additional education to become a Registered Nurse (RN). This allows them to build upon their existing nursing knowledge and earn an Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Specialization: LPNs can specialize in areas such as geriatrics, pediatrics, or wound care, which can enhance their expertise and job satisfaction. Specialized training in these areas opens up additional career opportunities.
Leadership Roles: LPNs can also take on leadership roles in healthcare settings, such as charge nurse or supervisory positions. These roles often involve managing teams of nursing staff, overseeing patient care, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals.

RN Career Advancement Opportunities

Advanced Degrees: Registered Nurses (RNs) have a broad range of career advancement opportunities, with many choosing to further their education by obtaining advanced degrees. For example, they may pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), or even Nurse Anesthetists.
Specialization: RNs can specialize in high-demand areas such as anesthesia, critical care, oncology, or family practice. These specialties often offer increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and the chance to work in more focused or complex healthcare settings.
Management Roles: RNs can also move into management positions, such as nurse manager, clinical nurse leader, or director of nursing, where they oversee staff, manage patient care systems, and play key roles in hospital or clinic operations. These roles provide the opportunity to influence healthcare policy and improve patient care.

LPN vs. RN: Comparing Benefits of Both Paths

Choosing between becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN) is a significant decision, and each path offers unique benefits. While both roles provide vital contributions to patient care, the advantages of each pathway depend on individual career goals, desired work environment, and long-term aspirations. Below are some of the key benefits of each nursing path.

The Benefits of Choosing an LPN Program

Shorter Training Period: One of the primary benefits of becoming an LPN is the relatively short training period. LPN programs typically last 12 to 18 months, allowing individuals to quickly enter the workforce and start earning.

Valuable Experience: LPNs gain hands-on experience in providing direct patient care, which is crucial for building foundational nursing skills. This experience can be beneficial for those who may later decide to pursue additional education or advance their careers.

Opportunities for Further Education: LPNs have the option to pursue further education later on, such as transitioning to an RN. This offers a flexible path for those who want to continue their professional growth while gaining experience in the field.

The Benefits of Choosing an RN Program

Expanded Scope of Practice: RNs have a broader scope of practice compared to LPNs, allowing them to perform advanced patient care tasks, develop care plans, and supervise other healthcare workers. This expanded responsibility provides a greater opportunity to impact patient outcomes.

Higher Earning Potential: Registered Nurses typically earn higher salaries than LPNs, with the potential for significant increases based on specialization, experience, and education.

Job Flexibility and Advancement: RNs enjoy greater flexibility in their careers, with opportunities to work in various specialties, such as critical care, surgery, or family practice. Additionally, RNs have more opportunities for career growth, including leadership roles in nursing management, education, or healthcare policy.

Career Growth and Specialization: RNs can specialize in high-demand areas, pursue advanced degrees, and take on roles such as Nurse Practitioners or Clinical Nurse Specialists. This offers both professional fulfillment and career advancement opportunities.

High-level Matrix Comparing the Key Aspects of the LPN and RN Professions

This matrix highlights the core differences and advantages of each profession to help guide individuals in making an informed decision about their nursing career path.

Aspect	Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)	Registered Nurse (RN)
Education and Training	Typically 12-18 months; vocational nursing program	Typically 2-4 years; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (ADN or BSN)
Licensing Exam	NCLEX-PN	NCLEX-RN
Scope of Practice	Basic patient care under supervision; administering medications, wound care, and collecting patient data	Broader scope; planning care, performing diagnostic tests, and supervising other healthcare professionals
Work Settings	Hospitals, nursing homes, home healthcare, clinics	Hospitals, outpatient care centers, schools, specialized units like critical care, surgery
*Salary Range**	Moderate, hourly wage, varies by experience, location, and setting	Higher, annual salary*, with potential for increases based on experience, location, and and specialization
Job Outlook	Positive, especially in long-term care and home healthcare	Strong demand, with opportunities in various specialties and leadership roles
Career Advancement	LPN to RN bridge programs, specialization, leadership roles	Advanced degrees (MSN, DNP), specialization, management, and leadership positions
Autonomy	Limited; works under supervision of RNs or physicians	Greater autonomy in patient care and decision-making
Specialization Opportunities	Limited, but opportunities in areas like geriatrics or pediatrics	Extensive opportunities in critical care, anesthesia, family practice, and more
Job Flexibility	Moderate; typically works in more routine settings	High; opportunity to work in various specialties and healthcare settings

Your Journey to Making a Difference Starts Now!

In conclusion, while both LPNs and RNs play vital roles in healthcare, they differ significantly in terms of their responsibilities, education, scope of practice, and career opportunities. LPNs typically complete shorter training programs, work under the supervision of RNs or physicians, and focus on providing basic patient care. RNs, on the other hand, undergo more extensive education, have a broader scope of practice, and often hold leadership roles with higher earning potential. The job outlook for both roles is positive, but RNs generally have more opportunities for specialization and career growth. When deciding which nursing path to pursue, it’s important to consider your long-term career goals, time commitments, and passion for patient care. If you’re interested in advancing your career, exploring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program could open doors to greater opportunities. For those who want a patient-centered introduction to the field of healthcare, learn more on how to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, and then enroll in a Practical Nursing program as a first step in the field.

No matter which path you choose, becoming an LPN or an RN offers a rewarding journey in healthcare. The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives, contribute to a compassionate healthcare team, and continuously grow in your career is something that both paths provide. Remember, nursing is not just a profession—it’s a calling. By carefully considering your goals and aspirations, you’re setting yourself up for a fulfilling and impactful career that will shape the future of healthcare.