The main distinction between an LVN and a Registered Nurse is that the former requires less formal education. An LPN is a licensed practical nurse who performs certain medical activities but does not have the same obligations as an RN.In this article we are going to tell you the difference between RN and LVN.
On the basis of education, license, function and duties, and work settings, we compared the two professions. When it comes to the job you want to know how they differ and what they offer in terms of career opportunities that may help you determine which role best matches your lifestyle and personal preferences.
Education
Becoming a Registered Nurse necessitates further training. Make a mental note of the variations in the educational procedures listed below.
Registered Nurse
There are a variety of courses to become a Registered Nurse. Earning an Associate of Applied Science in Registered Nursing (ASN), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or a certificate from an accredited nursing program are all viable alternatives. These programs or courses may last from two to four years. Students in each of these programs take coursework in chemistry, physiology, nursing, microbiology, psychology, anatomy, nutrition, and other subjects, as well as supervised clinical practice in a hospital department.
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
An approved nursing curriculum is required to become an LVN/LPN. It takes a year to complete the curriculum. Students study biology, pharmacology, and nursing in a community college, where they also participate in supervised clinical experiences. After completing the program, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination in order to acquire a license that permits them to operate in any of the states.
Compensation
The national median yearly pay for a registered nurse (RN) is substantially greater than that of a licensed practical nurse (LVN). A Registered Nurse makes an average of $65,000 per year in the United States, whereas a Licensed Vocational Nurse earns an average of $41,000 per year in the United States.
RN and LVN Licenses: What’s the Difference?
The majority of the difference in compensation between an LVN and an RN is due to the area of practice allowed by their different licenses.
Before getting a license, both RNs and LVNs must finish specific school programs and pass a national license exam. RNs, on the other hand, attend school for 1-3 years longer and so have a broader area of practice than LVNs.
The activities that both RNs and LVNs are permitted to engage in differ by state.
Skills That Are Required
Because of the difference in work titles, LVNs and RNs may require different levels of competence to perform their job obligations. Basic patient care techniques are taught to licensed vocational nurses. Patient comfort, vital monitoring, IV treatment, record-keeping, and wound management are some of the skills they can have.
RNs are trained in the diagnosis of medical problems, advanced IV therapy, drug administration, patient education, and verbal communication.
LVN vs. RN Comparison
RNs are the LVNs’ supervisors.
A bachelor’s degree in nursing, which can take two to four years to complete, is necessary. LVNs, on the other hand, have the option of enrolling in transitional programs before becoming registered nurses.
RNs make more money than LVNs.
The scope of practice for LVNs is narrower than that of RNs, and it varies by state.
RNs have the option to start their own practices. They have the potential to advance to management roles.
The doctors provide orders to both the RN and the LVN.
Registered Nurse Vs. Vocational Nurse
When deciding between a vocational nurse and a registered nurse, keep in mind that both are vital in providing high-quality health care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing job possibilities are growing every year, with LVNs expecting to increase their employment chances by more than 11% over the next decade. As a result, there is no better time than now to begin these occupations.
Conclusion:
I hope this blog is sufficient enough to clarify the Difference Between RN and LVN.
