The Registered Nurse LPN Debate – Which Path to Choose?

There are two main types of nursing qualifications to choose from, the RN and the LPN. RN stands for registered nurse and LPN stands for licensed practical nurse. However it is common to see the acronym LVN which stands for Licensed Vocational Nurse, it is the same thing as LPN. One thing you should know right off is that the training and education required to become a registered nurse is extremely demanding. It can take two or more years to complete RN nursing school. The hands-on training is much more demanding and the exam more challenging because RN is a position above LPN.

The career choice as a licensed practical nurse or LPN is much more practical for the new student who wants to pursue nursing more slowly and in a more accessible way. There is on the job training for LPNs, and programs that can be completed in about a year. Then once you are able to gain employment as a licensed vocational nurse it is possible your employer offers educational reimbursement if you want to go further and get your RN certification. Before you can start practicing as an LPN, you must pass the state Practical Nurse exam. Every nurse, both RN and LPN, must pass their respective state nursing exams.

There are many different duties performed by an LPN. They can include but are not limited to injections, administering blood tests, taking blood pressure readings, taking temperatures, changing bandages and much more. Your duties depend highly on where you work and the type of patients you work with. There are so many places where good LPNs are needed to perform their duties. While hospitals and doctor's offices are certainly two of the biggest LPN employers, there are other places for licensed practical nurses to find employment.

As an example, as a licensed practical nurse not only can you work for a doctor's office or hospital, you can work for other facilities as well. Schools, corporations, assisted living homes, industrial factories, mental health facilities, daycare centers and more need LPNs. So when it comes to the registered nurse LPN decision, you may want to start off as an LPN so you can gain job experience more quickly and work your way up to the position of RN through continuing education and training if you wish to do so.






 

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