CNA vs LPN vs RN - What Are the Differences?

This position assists with patient healthcare needs under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse. Earning certification as a nursing assistant means that individuals have completed a combination of classroom study and on the job experience. The certification process makes it easier for employers to verify credentials and protect patients from being under the care of untrained healthcare workers. The position of CNA is often considered as an introductory or entry level nursing job and can be a great way for individuals considering a career in nursing to get a feel for what kinds of functions a nurse performs. A CNA is usually responsible for observing and reporting on the condition of patients, measuring and recording vital signs and other data, changing dressings, and preparing patients for procedures. Wages for a Certified Nursing Assistant average around $12 an hour. You can learn more about CNA training classes through your state Board of Nursing or local chapter of the Red Cross.

The next step up when it comes to a career in nursing is an LPN or LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) for California residents. They are essentially the same with only a difference in naming convention. A Licensed Practical Nurse works under the supervision of a medical doctor in a hospital or clinical setting and is responsible for a broader scope of patient care than a CNA. LPNs are regulated by the State Board of Nursing in the state where employment takes place. Licensure follows the completion of an accredited LPN nursing program, passage of a background check, and successful completion of a licensing exam. LPN nursing programs can range from just under a year in length to as much as three years depending on where you live and what area you plan to specialize in. The average starting salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse is $16 an hour with the higher paying positions being found on the east and west coasts. An experienced nurse can make as much as $27 or $28 per hour in states where the position is in high demand.

Attaining the position of RN is usually the goal of most students who embark on a nursing career path. There are currently more Registered Nurses than doctors with close to 3 million individuals claiming the title. Amazingly enough, even with that many trained professionals, it remains one of the most in-demand positions in the medical field. Starting salaries can range from $25 to $30 per hour and RNs with several years of experience can make well in excess of $75,000 per year. The significant bump up in pay between a LPN and an RN comes with an increased level of responsibility as RNs are involved with a broad scope of patient care activities such as treating patients, operating sophisticated equipment, administering medication, and performing diagnostics. Schedules for a Registered Nurse are often very demanding as patients require care around the clock. This can lead to erratic work schedules that involve days, nights, holidays, and emergency calls on short notice. There are several different educational paths that can lead up to an RN but all of them require passing a National Council Licensure Examination or NCLEX-RN. To learn how to become an RN you can contact a nursing school in your area or your state Board of Nursing. Once licensed, employment can take place across a wide range of medical facilities with hospitals and clinics accounting for the majority of job openings. Employment opportunities remain plentiful for nuses and the outlook for the next decade continues to be favorable.