LPN vs RN?

[CWiley01]

Hi I am 13yrs old and looking to become a male RN or LPN, but I can't decide which is the difference, I heard several differences, but since you all are here I was wondering if you could tell me.

-Chris

[All41]

Depending on the workplace setting there can be little to no difference in what an RN does vs an LPN. An RN goes to school somewhat longer and can perform certain tasks which an LPN cannot. As you are deciding what to do, it would be advisable to contact one or two of the hospitals in your area. You can call Human Resources and tell them of your plans. Ask them if they have any scholarship programs. You can also ask if you can do some volunteering after school, weekends and/or the summer. That is the best way to get a feel for who does what. Hope this helps!

[CWiley01]

Thank you, But could you tell me some of the tasks that RNs Can Perform that LPNs can't? And is it true an RNs Assesments Skills are more better than LPNs?(But of course it depends on the nurse) My stepmother is a LPN and she says they are simlar in many ways. And I am applying into a Medical Explorers Program.

And one more thing on that subject is it true that There is some Tension between RNs and LPNs?

[All41]

From your question, I can tell you have been doing your homework. In most cases, an RN must perform the initial assessment on a new patient. In home care this is required. The RN has had more education in nursing and therefore is better able to assess a patient's physical, psychological and spiritual status. You can think of it like being in the service. A sargeant cannot do what a general does because they must complete certain tasks (educational, physical, service). You seem to have a very good understanding so far.
As far as conflict between LPN's and RN's, there are always problems with any coworkers in any field. Here is another area where the RN has more responsibility. The RN is in a position of leadership and greatly influences the atmosphere. They can be respectful or not; just like anyone else in a leadership role.

[CWiley01]

Thank you very much for your Continuing help and support, Especially toward myself a 13yr. I have been researching both positions and I still haven't decided, but you have given me more hints towards my career goal. And I think it would be normal for Nurses to have some tension as long if it's in the patients best intrest and it is appropriate.

My Stepmother an LPN for 32 years has given me valuable information and I just wanted a second opinion.

Anyways thank you for your continuing support and postive,useful help expect more questions in the comming days lol

-Chris

[Baby_Nurse_To_Be]

I'm a LPN student so if you have any questions pm me.

[mercynurse]

Hi Chris,

There are a number of differences between RNs and LPNs. LPNs school is not as long, they have less of a scope of practice, and they don't make as much salary. Those are the biggest differences I can think of.

We need all the nurses we can get!!

Hope you decide to go for it!!

[CherylR]

I have been an RN for 18 years and as far as I can tell the only real advantage to becoming an LPN is that the program can be completed quickly. The LPN program can be completed in about a year, I know of no program which also grants a college degree, and few colleges will accept credits for completing the LPN program of nursing. The LPN program focus is upon hands-on nursing which prepares the the LPN to perform the physical aspects of nursing. LPN stands for "Limited Practical Nurse."
The practice of the LPN is limited when compared to the practice of the RN (according to state practice acts). In truth many times the RN may work side by side with the LPN doing almost the same job but the RN makes at least 30% to 50% (or sometimes more) in their paycheck. Also the opportunities for advancement simply do not exist for the LPN unless they are working in a nursing home. Many hospitals are attempting to phase out LPNs by making them become an RN within a specified period. This means that if you become an LPN you may be taking the RN program down the road to hold your job. The advantage of being an LPN then taking the RN program is that of course you are already familiar with much of what you are required to learn. But why go to school twice unless you have too? Many LPNs have told me that they became LPNs because they needed to get through school fast, so for them it was worth it.
To become an RN you must complete the requirements of either a diploma, associates, or bachlors degree. This means that in addition to nursing classes other classes such as math, science, writing, and chemistry may be required. The RN student attends classes on patient care, assessment, nursing process, medications, and anything that your particular program deems important. It takes about two to five years to complete these requirements, sometimes more if you are taking only one or two classes at a time. You will receive your degree and if you decide to earn another degree most of your credits should transfer (if you think you might do this talk to your counselor when you are signing up to be sure).
There are numerous opportunities available to RN's in many different areas. Becoming an RN not only will pays better, but will also offer better opportunities for your future. You can work in any setting and do anything from bedside nursing to travel nursing, homecare, surgical nursing, or management to name a few areas. If you want to become an RN you will need to work hard in school and get good grades to prepare you for college. Hope this helps you make the choice that is right for you. GOOD LUCK!!

[hsieh]

i went the lpn to rn route. i prefer rn because you have more job opportunities.

[LindaLouRN]

Hello,

I am an instructor at our local junior college in the LVN program. I started my nursing career as a LVN and then became an RN several years later. In my professional opinion, most of the nurses that are LVN/LPN's first are better prepared to do actual nursing skills because that is the main focus in LVN training. RN training does not involve as much skill training but focuses instead on theory and the "why" instead of the "how".

I highly recommend starting your nursing career as an LVN and then progressing to a RN.

Best of luck,