The Differences Between an LPN and an RN Explained

The health care industry is the fastest-growing employment sector in the United States, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With the field increasing so dramatically, now is an ideal time to prepare for a nursing career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN). When considering becoming an LPN vs. an RN, many students are unsure of the difference, but there are key distinctions.

While the roles are unique, both LPNs and RNs can benefit from an educational background that teaches sound nursing fundamentals.

What Is an LPN?

Licensed practical nurses typically work under registered nurses and perform basic nursing care, making this level of nursing one step below an RN. LPNs can take on both administrative and clinical tasks. Typical duties include monitoring patients’ vitals, providing comfort to patients, discussing care concerns with patients, and maintaining records. They may also perform patient-care tasks, such as bathing and changing bandages.

An LPN’s responsibilities can vary by state. In some states, LPNs with the required training can also administer medication. Some states also allow LPNs to work as supervisors, overseeing other LPNs or staff members.

Education, Experience, and Licenses

All LPNs must complete a nursing education program approved by their state board of nursing. These programs typically last about one year, include all nursing fundamentals, and require supervised clinical experience.

After completing a nursing program, LPNs must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). LPNs may also obtain additional credentials to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise, such as basic life support (BLS) certification or certification in a specific area of nursing, like intravenous (IV) therapy.

Required Skills

Skills necessary to thrive as an LPN include:

• Attention to Detail: LPNs need to be meticulously detail-oriented to ensure that patients get the right care.

• Multitasking: They typically work with multiple patients at once, which means juggling different kinds of care.

• Physical stamina: LPNs often spend much of their day on their feet, and they need to be able to handle physically demanding tasks such as bathing patients.

• Communication: They should have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as they must show empathy and compassion to patients and family members going through difficult circumstances.

Salary and Job Outlook

The median annual salary for LPNs was $62,340 as of 2024, according to the BLS. As the need for health care services is expected to increase, demand for LPNs is predicted to rise with it. The BLS projects that positions will grow 3% between 2023 and 2033, matching the national average.

What Is an RN?

Registered nurses work with physicians and other members of a care team to assess patients’ conditions, observe patient health, administer treatments, perform tests, and teach patients how to manage their health. RNs also oversee LPNs and other staff members, such as nursing assistants.

RNs tend to be more specialized than LPNs, and their duties vary based on their specialty. For instance, neonatal nurses take care of newborns, while critical care nurses work in intensive-care units with patients who need immediate, extensive care. Both LPNs and RNs can work in various health care settings, but RNs tend to work in a wider range of locations, including community centers, schools, and individual homes.

Education, Experience, and Licenses

Becoming a registered nurse requires earning one of three types of nursing degrees: a nursing diploma, an associate degree in nursing, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Bachelor’s degree programs go beyond the nursing fundamentals offered in other programs to teach additional skills such as critical thinking and analysis, which is why many employers prefer applicants with a BSN. For some positions, like teaching or consultant nursing positions, a bachelor’s degree is required.

RNs must also pass the NCLEX-RN. To work in a specific field, they may need to become certified by a professional organization. For example, to become a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), nurses need to obtain certification from the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. In many cases, RNs also need certifications in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), BLS, or advanced cardiac life support (ACLS).

Required Skills

Skills needed to become an RN include:

• Critical thinking: RNs need to be able to assess patient health and determine treatment options.

• Organizational skills: They need to maintain patient records and treatment plans to ensure patients receive the correct care.

• Physical stamina: RNs are typically on their feet most of the day and need to complete physically demanding tasks, such as lifting and moving patients.

• Empathy: They need to be patient and compassionate with patients, who may be struggling emotionally.

Salary and Job Outlook

The median annual salary for registered nurses was $93,600 as of 2024, according to the BLS. Positions for RNs are predicted to increase by 6% between 2023 and 2033, outpacing the national average.

Preparing for a Future in Nursing with The University of Tulsa

Both LPNs and RNs are necessary professionals who provide vital care. However, prospective nursing professionals may find that becoming an RN offers more options for career advancement, higher salaries, and greater autonomy. RNs can take on supervisory and management roles in their facilities. They are also prepared to enter graduate-level programs, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which can lead to leadership positions in education and advanced clinical practice.

With an Accelerated Online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) from The University of Tulsa (TU), working professionals who already have a bachelor’s in another field can prepare to obtain their RN license and make the switch to a fulfilling nursing career.

TU proudly has one of the highest first-time NCLEX pass rates in the state of Oklahoma, and in 2023, TU graduates had a 100% pass rate. Learn from experienced faculty, gain expertise through research-based and hands-on coursework, and hone leadership skills to prepare for your future. Help shape the future of nursing care with The University of Tulsa.

Recommended Readings

How Much Do RNs Make in Oklahoma?

How an MSN Can Prepare You for Advance Nursing Practice

A Nurse’s Role in Interprofessional Collaboration in Health Care

Sources:

Indeed, “RNs vs. LPNs: What Hiring Managers Should Know”

Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, Certified Pediatric Nurse

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections: 2023-2033 Summary

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses