Nursing plays a vital role in the healthcare system and offers various opportunities for individuals interested in patient care. Two of the most common nursing careers are Practical Nursing (PN) and Registered Nursing (RN). Although both practical and registered nurses work in patient care, their roles are distinct and differ significantly in terms of education and practice. Understanding these differences can be valuable for those considering a career in nursing or anyone seeking to learn more about the field.
Educational requirements
Practical nursing
Practical Nurses, also known as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), are referred to as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs). These nurses complete training through a Practical Nursing program, typically accredited by community colleges, technical institutes, and vocational schools, which usually takes about 12 to 18 months to complete. The program provides students with essential nursing skills, basic patient care, and foundational knowledge in medical science. Upon graduation, individuals must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain state licensure and practice as an LPN or LVN.
Registered Nurse
Registered nurses can complete an Associate Degree in Nursing, which normally takes about 2 years, or get a Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) as a 4 years degree program. The BSN pathway has broader subjects like public health, leadership, etc., in the curriculum. After that, he/she must pass the NCLEX-RN patient license examination to obtain the nursing license. The additional educational requirement is in place due to the broad-based responsibilities for an RN’s role and preparation.
Scope of practice
Practical nursing
Some duties of the LPNs include the following:
- Monitor vital signs, blood pressure, and temperature.
- Assist patients in daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
- They can administer basic medications, but in some states, IV medication administration is limited.
- Sample collection for laboratory tests.
- Maintains record files of patients and reports any changes in the patient’s condition to RNs or physicians.
Registered nurse
The scope of practice of RNs is broader, allowing them to carry out more advanced medical procedures as well as critical decisions about patient care. Their duties include the following:
- Performing assessments and developing nursing care plans.
- Administering medication and treatments, including IV therapy.
- Undertaking diagnostic tests and interpretations of results.
- Educating patients and their families regarding health conditions and post-discharge care.
- Supervises LPNs and nursing assistants.
- Coordinate care among physicians and other health care providers.
Workplace settings
Practical nursing
LPNs work in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare agencies. These provide environments that require continuous patient care and support, which is the essence of LPN duties. Although some LPNs are employed within hospitals, their work in such facilities has been usually more limited compared to RNs.
Registered nurses
RNs have the flexibility to find jobs in a variety of places: hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, public health organizations, and research institutions. Most of the time, they have assignments in acute care environments such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, and operating rooms where advanced skills and decision-making abilities are invaluable. RNs also often work in public health with the general public, educating them and advocating for better healthcare practices.
Career advancement opportunities
Practical nurses
The career advancement prospects for LPNs are typically through experience and certifications like IV therapy or gerontology, although opportunities for specialization and leadership roles are not many. However, many LPNs transition from LPN to an RN role by enrolling in an LPN-to-RN bridge program that builds upon their existing skills and knowledge.
Registered nurses
RNs have substantial career mobility and specialization opportunities. As they advance their education and certifications, RNs can function as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners (NPs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), or clinical nurse specialists (CNSs). Others may opt for managerial roles within health systems, such as nurse managers or directors, while some may choose to participate in the profession through teaching and research. The BSN degree is often viewed as a prerequisite for leadership positions and graduate education.
Conclusion
Practical nurses and registered nurses both are an important part of the healthcare system. Both share their different skills and perspectives towards patient care. While providing important hands-on care under the supervision of RNs and physicians, LPNs take on a larger and more self-sufficient role in which higher education is a necessity, and overall, many options are available for future career development. Many options to pursue nursing as an educational pathway, scope of practice, place of work, and chances of a career would mean making the best informed educational choices into which nursing option aligns best with plans and aspirations. Ultimately, it does not matter whether one wants to be an LPN or an RN; such duties always provide opportunities to touch another person’s life.