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LPN vs. RN

LPN vs RN

So, you’ve made the decision to go back to school in the healthcare field, but you need to figure out if you’re going to go back as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN).

  • Education is the largest difference between becoming an RN versus an LPN.  As an RN, there are several education options: getting your bachelors of science in nursing, associates degree in nursing, or a diploma from an accredited nursing program. Education for an LPN is a little different in that a prospective LPN must complete an accredited practical nursing program which takes about one year.
  • After completing either an RN or LPN program, you still have to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN) in order to get your license.
  • Salary will also differ depending if you’re an LPN or an RN.  The average salary for an RN is about $65,000 annually, while an LPN’s average salary is about $41,000.  Although it takes longer to become an RN, the pay off in the end is greater responsibility, more opportunities, and a higher salary.
  • There is a high demand for both registered nurses and licensed practical nurses.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, LPNs are expected to grow 22% from 2010 to 2020 and RNs are projected at 26% growth rate.
  • Work settings are also different between licensed practical nurses and registered nurses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, “29% of LPNs work in nursing care facilities, 15% in hospitals, 12% in doctor’s offices, and 9% in home health. For RNs, hospitals are the most common setting, with 48% in private general hospitals and 6% in local hospitals. Only 5% work in long term care.”

If you think you may be interested in becoming a RN or LPN, you’ll want to do your research, weigh out the pros and cons, and make a decision on which would best fit your needs.

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