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This question is about what a nurse does.
LPN vs. CNA
An LPN is a nurse that provides basic care to patients, while a CNA is a certified nursing assistant and works under registered nurses.
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is responsible for providing basic medical care to patients. They work under the supervision of senior nurses and doctors, performing tasks like monitoring a patient's vitals, changing wound dressings, and helping patients move around. LPNs may also help with a patient's grooming needs.
A CNA provides direct care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care. They help patients with a wide range of basic needs, including eating, bathing, grooming, mobility, and more. CNAs report to and take orders from registered nurses, doctors, and other higher-level hospital staff.
Here are the key differences between an LPN and a CNA:
| An LPN is a Licensed Practical Nurse. | A CNA is a Certified Nursing Assistant. |
| An LPN works under senior nurses and doctors. | A CNA works under and reports to senior nurses. |
| An LPN may assist nurses and doctors. | A CNA mostly assists nurses. |
| An LPN performs more complex medical tasks for patients. | A CNA provides more general basic care for patients. |
| An LPN has an average salary of $56,528 per year. | A CNA has an average salary of $34,670 per year. |
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