Can I become an RN or LPN online?

No, fully online degree programs for RN or LPN roles are not available due to the necessity of hands-on clinical training for licensure. However, some coursework may be available online.

How do you decide between becoming an RN or LPN?

Consider your long-term career aspirations, financial situation, and the amount of time you are willing to invest in your education.

How long does it take to become an LPN or RN?

Becoming an LPN typically takes about one year, while becoming an RN may take two to four years depending on the program.

Licensed Practical Nurse Vs. Registered Nurse: What’s The Difference?

Licensed Practical Nurse vs. Registered Nurse: Key Differences Explained

If you’re considering a career in nursing, understanding the distinctions between Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) is essential. As the healthcare sector continues to expand, nursing remains a fulfilling career choice for those passionate about patient care.

Despite the minor difference in their titles, LPNs and RNs have significantly different roles and responsibilities. In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two nursing paths, helping you make an informed decision about your future in healthcare.

Key Takeaways:

LPN	RN
LPNs deliver foundational medical and nursing care, including monitoring vital signs, assisting patients with comfort, and reporting to RNs and doctors.	RNs provide comprehensive patient care, including administering medications, coordinating treatment plans, conducting diagnostic tests, and collaborating with physicians.
To become an LPN, you must complete an accredited practical nursing program, typically lasting one to two years at a community or technical college.	To become an RN, you must earn either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), or a diploma from an accredited nursing program, which takes two to four years.
LPNs can advance to supervisory roles or further their education to specialize or become RNs.	RNs can progress to management roles like Chief Nursing Officer or specialize as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs).

What Is an LPN?

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)—also known as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in some states—completes a practical nursing program, typically taking two years at community or vocational colleges.

LPNs possess a distinct license that defines their scope of practice, which generally involves reporting to RNs in various healthcare settings. Their responsibilities include:

Vital Signs: LPNs measure vital signs, including temperature and blood pressure, and document these in patient records.
Oral Medications: LPNs administer oral medications, which may include over-the-counter and prescribed drugs.
Blood Sugar Testing: LPNs assess blood sugar levels, often using finger prick tests, and record the results.
Patient Assistance: LPNs help patients with daily activities like mobility, dressing, eating, and hydration.
Personal Hygiene: LPNs assist patients with hygiene tasks such as bathing, brushing teeth, and toileting.
General Patient Care: LPNs handle various other patient care tasks not covered above.

To become an LPN, candidates must complete required coursework, including ethics, nursing skills, and clinical rotations. LPN programs typically last one to two years at vocational schools or junior colleges.

Licensure requirements may vary by state, but typically include:

Diploma: Completion of an accredited LPN program.
Pass NCLEX-PN: Successfully passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses.
Renewals: LPNs are required to renew their licenses every two years, which involves completing continuing education hours.

The median annual salary for LPNs is approximately $48,820, with a projected job growth rate of 9% through 2030, indicating a need for an additional 65,700 LPNs in the workforce.

If you’re considering a career as an LPN, there are numerous growth opportunities available in diverse settings such as physician offices, mental health facilities, geriatric care, and home health care. Further education to become an RN is also a viable path.

What Is an RN?

A Registered Nurse (RN) has typically completed either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and passed the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

RNs engage in a broader scope of patient care compared to LPNs. Their responsibilities include:

Patient Assessments: RNs conduct comprehensive assessments and provide findings to physicians.
IV Therapy: RNs are skilled in starting IV lines and administering IV medications.
Medication Administration: RNs are authorized to administer various types of medications to patients.
Blood Sample Collection: RNs can obtain blood samples and send them for lab analysis.
Physical Examinations: RNs perform physical exams prior to physician evaluations.
Diagnostic Tests: RNs evaluate whether patients qualify for specific diagnostic tests.
Collaboration with Physicians: RNs work alongside physicians to develop treatment plans.
Patient Counseling: RNs provide emotional support and answer patients’ questions regarding their care.
Treatment Coordination: RNs recommend follow-up treatments such as physical therapy or nutritional counseling.

The educational path for RNs is more extensive, typically requiring two to four years of study, depending on whether they pursue an ADN or BSN. The curriculum covers nursing fundamentals, ethics, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and clinical rotations.

To become a licensed RN, candidates must:

Graduate from an Accredited Nursing Program: Complete a program accredited by recognized nursing education bodies.
Pass NCLEX-RN: Successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
Renewals: RNs must renew their licenses every two years, fulfilling state continuing education requirements.

The median annual salary for RNs is approximately $75,330, with a projected job growth rate of 9% through 2030, indicating a healthy job market.

RNs have numerous opportunities for career advancement, including moving into specialized roles, leadership positions, or educational roles. Continuing education can further enhance their career prospects.

LPN vs. RN FAQs

Can I become an RN or LPN online?

No, fully online degree programs for RN or LPN roles are not available due to the necessity of hands-on clinical training for licensure. However, some coursework may be available online.
How do you decide between becoming an RN or LPN?

Consider your long-term career aspirations, financial situation, and the amount of time you are willing to invest in your education.
How long does it take to become an LPN or RN?

Becoming an LPN typically takes about one year, while becoming an RN may take two to four years depending on the program.

Never miss an opportunity that’s right for you.

Author

Caitlin Mazur

Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

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