what is the advantage of registered nurses versus licensed nurse

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Apr 5, 2016

Both are licensed. A registered nurse has a broader scope of practice. A licensed practical nurse must work under the direction of an RN, APN, MD, DO, DMD or DDS. The scope depends on the state may not be able to do IV push medications, place central lines or initiate blood transfusions.

allnurses Guide · Apr 5, 2016

A few thoughts on that . . .first I would ignore what the people tells you to do and ask yourself whether or not you really want to continue school.

I would then think specifically what it is in your job that makes you unhappy and dissatisfied. That's important I think, because some or all of those factors will be a part of your potential nursing job.

All else being equal, though, a registered nurse will have (generally speaking as exceptions do exist)

Higher pay, more responsibility, more options to specialize and/or move into management, and, owing to the end of the nursing shortage, an RN (who also holds a license) is more likely to get hired in more places, which also widens your opportunities.

Another way you might get some good info is to check out your state board of nursing websites, they generally contain basic information and FAQs specific to your state. Best wishes to you!

mylene777 · Apr 5, 2016

Thank you for everyone's input. I'm glad that you all are very nice and understanding people who cares about new LPN's like me. It is my first job as nurse in assisted living facility and I worked hard as Certified nursing assistant and Home health aide. I appreciate it

allnurses Guide · Apr 5, 2016

In your situation the biggest benefit of being an RN versus an LVN is simply in having far far FAR more opportunities to work somewhere else.

puppywubby · Apr 12, 2016

As a LPN I am employed as a clinic nurse at a middle school. I love it. My hours are convenient 9:30 am - 3:30pm and I perform first aid, vitals and give medication such as eye drops, inhalers, epi pen and insulin. I also have children who need prn meds such as Motrin, Tylenol etc. However I find it rewarding. I have my own office and with the help of my nurse manager, I have support when needed. As a new LPN I didn't feel comfortable doing home care or assisted living, so I started off slowly. If you find an agency that works with the school board great for you. I say all this to say this as a LPN there are many ways to have a job within different fields just ind one that works for you and shine! However, I do plan to attain my BSN degree because it has always been a goal of mine. But honestly, I am very satisfied as a LPN and if you are that is great.

Stay encouraged.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Apr 12, 2016

The title of this thread is 'what is the advantage of registered nurses versus licensed nurses'...for me, the advantage of having my RN license is the ability to earn more money for doing virtually the same job, in addition to qualifying for 'nicer' jobs.

I busted my butt as an LVN for the privilege of earning less money than my RN counterparts. Now I earn almost twice as much money as I did during my LVN days for working in a more pleasant role away from the floor.

Been there,done that, ASN, RN · Apr 12, 2016

You need to think outside the box. I have a friend that is an LPN. She is doing informatics, adjunct facility at a for profit college, and rounding with a physician in the hospital.

MANY things you can do with your licensure.