[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Do you want to start your nursing career but cannot decide between a[hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/lpn-lvn/”] licensed practical nurse[/hen-ui-link] (LPN) or a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/”]registered nurse[/hen-ui-link] (RN)?[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]LPNs and RNs share many duties and have significant flexibility and job security. RNs, however, typically have more professional autonomy, with LPNs often unable to take certain actions without approval from an RN, physician, or other appropriate member of the care team.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, you can [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/lpn-lvn/how-to-become/”]become an LPN[/hen-ui-link] in 12-18 months, while [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/how-to-become-a-rn/”]becoming an RN[/hen-ui-link] usually takes 2-4 years.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Learn more about what differentiates these two fields, including salary and career outlooks for LPNs vs. RNs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]LPN vs. RN: Key Similarities and Differences[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]LPNs and RNs both monitor patients, administer medications, perform wound care, help patients with basic tasks like bathing and feeding, and often educate and support patients and their loved ones.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, there are differences in the education [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/rn-licensing-requirements-by-state/”]requirements and scope of practice[/hen-ui-link] between RNs and LPNs. It’s crucial to note that individual states dictate the scope of practice for each role, and differences can be significant. Check with your [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ncsbn.org/” target=”_blank”]state board of nursing[/hen-ui-link] to learn more about the rules in your state.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”not-prose py-6″]What Is an LPN?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]LPNs (also known as licensed vocational nurses, or LVNs, in Texas and California) perform vital work in collaboration with RNs, physicians, dentists, and other healthcare professionals. LPNs work alongside or under the supervision of RNs to deliver care and support to patients.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This role also requires gathering patient data, which other licensed healthcare providers later interpret. Unlike RNs, LPNs typically do not have state authorization to make health assessments, create nursing care plans, or triage patients.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”not-prose py-6″]What Is an RN?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Compared to LPNs, RNs generally operate independently. In certain settings, they may delegate some tasks to LPNs. RNs use their specialized judgment, skills, and knowledge to provide direct patient care in various settings.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To the patient, it may be difficult to discern the differences between RNs and LPNs.[/hen-ui-text]

[hen-ui-table][hen-ui-table-caption]LPN and RN Overview[/hen-ui-table-caption][hen-ui-table-header][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Points to Consider[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]LPN[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]RN[/hen-ui-table-head][/hen-ui-table-row][/hen-ui-table-header][hen-ui-table-body][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Education Required[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Points to Consider”]LPN program [/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”LPN”]Associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Time to Become[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Points to Consider”]12-18 months[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”LPN”]2-4 years[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Average Annual Salary[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Points to Consider”]$62,340[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”LPN”]$93,600[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][/hen-ui-table-body][/hen-ui-table]

[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs primarily work in state, local, and private hospitals. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that, as of May 2024, 59% of RNs work in hospitals, while 16% of LPNs work within a hospital setting.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to traditional healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and residential care facilities, RNs can also work on[hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/cruise-ship-nurse/how-to-become/”] cruise ships[/hen-ui-link], at summer camps, as[hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/school-nurse/how-to-become/”] school nurses[/hen-ui-link], and in many more locations where healthcare is needed.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After being pushed out of hospitals in favor of BSN-prepared RNs, many LPNs moved to nursing care facilities or home health services. However, that trend is correcting. Now, many LPNs are returning to the hospital, thanks in part to[hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8450812/” target=”_blank”] team nursing models[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]RN vs. LPN: Key Roles and Responsibilities[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs and LPNs share many nursing tasks, but their scope of practice differs depending on their state. In all situations, RNs have a broader scope of practice than LPNs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Generally speaking, only RNs provide initial assessments. Therefore, an RN must perform all tasks that require close monitoring and frequent assessment, such as initiating blood products, the first round of antibiotics, and initial patient assessments. Both LPNs and RNs perform all other nursing duties, including medication administration, wound care, and patient education.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What Does an LPN Do?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]LPNs provide essential nursing services to a range of patients, from the routine to the serious. Depending on the practice setting, they work independently or with RN supervision or another licensed healthcare provider. Each state regulates what LPNs can do, so their roles vary by region and setting.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For example, in some states, LPNs can start intravenous lines (IVs). And in other states, LPNs delegate duties to medical assistants. However, LPNs have dependent roles, performing duties, such as:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Monitoring patients by assessing their comfort level[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Tending to patients by taking their blood pressure, changing bandages, and inserting catheters[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Providing emotional support to patients and families[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Ensuring the basic comfort of patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administering medications according to a nursing care plan and medical orders[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Collecting patient data and recording their findings for another healthcare provider to review[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What Does an RN Do?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Registered nurses work more independently in their practice without the constant supervision of a healthcare provider. States may provide RNs with nursing diagnostic privileges. However, they cannot give a medical diagnosis or prescribe medication and treatments.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Much like LPNs, the role of an RN depends on where they work. They may:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Record medical histories and symptoms[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Examine, assess, monitor, and treat patients according to medical orders[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Teach patients and families about medication side effects, postsurgical care, and the management of illnesses or injuries[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educate people on disease processes, healthcare management, and disease prevention[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Triage patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administer medications and treatments to patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Education and Licensure[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]State regulations vary for LPNs and RNs because of differences in their education. RNs must spend more time on earning their ADN or a BSN degree, while LPNs can complete a program in a single year.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]How to Become an LPN[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]States determine the scope of practice and educational requirements for LPNs. All LPNs must complete a state-approved LPN program that leads to a certificate or diploma. Technical schools and community colleges offer programs that often take one year or less to complete.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]After graduating, you can take the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nclex/things-to-know-about-the-nclex-exam/”]National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses[/hen-ui-link] (NCLEX-PN) and later apply for state licensure. [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/lpn-lvn/#how-to-become”]LPNs can specialize[/hen-ui-link] in specific nursing fields, such as IV therapy, but this requires certification from a professional nursing association.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]How to Become an RN[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As an RN, you can start your nursing career after earning either an ADN or a BSN, which takes full-time students 2-4 years. Both degrees prepare you to take the NCLEX-RN exam that leads to licensure. While you can work with an ADN degree, there are additional[hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/top-advantages-of-a-bsn-degree/”] benefits to getting a BSN degree[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many LPNs go on to get their RN licensure through bridge programs, and many ADN-prepared nurses also eventually receive their BSN degree through [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/rn-to-bsn/”]RN-to-BSN bridge programs[/hen-ui-link]. In addition, there are [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/absn/”]accelerated BSN programs[/hen-ui-link] available for those who have a bachelor’s degree in another field to get their BSN in 12-18 months.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many nursing programs are available full or part time. Your exact time to graduation will vary depending on which type of program you attend.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]RN and LPN Salary and Career Outlook[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a higher degree and becoming an RN offers more opportunities and autonomy in nursing. However, both nursing careers offer job security, and there will be a steady demand for more LPNs and RNs in the next decade.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]LPN Salary and Career Outlook[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Annual LPN Salary:[/hen-ui-text] $62,340[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Where you live, your degree, seniority, and nursing specialty influence what you earn as an LPN. According to the BLS, the bottom 10% of LPNs earned $47,960 as of May 2024. And the top 10% enjoyed salaries above $80,510.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Skilled nursing facilities pay LPNs the most, with median salaries of $64,170. No matter the setting, there is a demand for LPNs. The BLS projects that jobs for LPNs will grow by 3% from 2024-2034, with employers adding 17,100 positions.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]RN Salary and Career Outlook[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Average Annual RN Salary:[/hen-ui-text] $93,600[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the BLS, the top 10% of RNs earned more than $135,320 as of May 2024. Salaries for RNs vary by setting, geographic location, experience level, and other factors.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Optional certifications also allow RNs to earn more money and gain authority in specialty areas, such as emergency care, adult-gerontology, or pain management.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the BLS, the job outlook for RNs is essentially the same as that for LPNs. Employers are projected to add 166,100 RN positions between 2024 and 2034, increasing employment by 5% annually.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]LPN vs. RN: Which Career Is Right For Me?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Becoming either an LPN or an RN offers a rewarding, stable career path. If you want to become a nurse quickly, you may be best suited to become an LPN. The shorter education route also costs less. If you decide later to become an RN, LPNs can get advanced standing in[hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/best-online-lpn-to-rn-programs/”] LPN-to-RN programs[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Conversely, RNs have higher earning potential, more job opportunities, and a broader scope of practice. Yet, both careers offer the same job security, with jobs projected to grow faster than most other careers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About LPN vs. RN[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What can an RN do that an LPN cannot?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs can work relatively independently, while LPNs typically operate alongside and under the supervision of RNs. RNs perform health assessments, create nursing care plans, and have no limitations on their skill set. Only some states allow LPNs to provide IV therapy, and they can only do it under supervision. LPNs cannot administer certain IV push medications or start blood transfusions.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is an RN higher than an LPN?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs have more education and a broader scope of practice than LPNs. Because of this, they can practice more independently and perform the full range of nursing tasks, including placing IVs, administering chemotherapy, and much more.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is being an RN harder than being an LPN?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs and LPNs are nurses, and nursing is challenging but rewarding, regardless of licensure. While some nurses may struggle with memorizing medications and drip rate calculations, others may need help with a busy assignment. Nursing can be difficult for everyone; your level of licensure does not affect that reality.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can I go from being an LPN to an RN?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes. Nursing schools offer [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/best-online-lpn-to-rn-programs/”]LPN-to-RN programs[/hen-ui-link] that fast-track students who meet the requirements to earn a BSN in two years or fewer. Instead of taking four years to get an undergraduate degree, an LPN can use their nursing knowledge to get advanced standing in a[hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/nursing-bridge-programs/”] nursing bridge program[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]