Job differences between LPN's and RN's?

[luckymichelle]

In your area?

I'm in my first year of a 3-yr RN program. I can stop after 2 years and be an LPN, or continue on for 3 and become an RN. I understand the differences in pay, etc... but I'm not completely understanding the difference of the job function. I haven't had the opportunity to speak with any LPN's or shadow them, so I'm just not sure... Financially, it would be easier on me and my husband if I could start working again asap, but my dream is to work in a women's health clinic and make a decent living. Can I do that as an LPN? Thoughts?

I always appreciate any info or opinions that y'all have! Thank you!

Michelle

[IamRN]

I am sure there are some posts about this already in the archives, but briefly...I work in an ICU w/a few LPN's. LPN's do most everything "physical" that the RN does (save administer blood and other higher level therapeutic equipment), the paper work and legal responsabilities are a bit different. I am always happy to hear when an LVN pursuits her RN. They already do the work why not get the pay?

[missmercy]

CHeck out the nurse practice acts for your state. Can't say exactly what differences there are -- something about the differences b/w assessing and evaluating vs. observing and reproting.

[mattsmom81]

Lotsa threads here on this issue if you search the archives. Depends on the state, the institution, and the job description whether there are differences in the job expectation.

I went on to RN school because of constraints on the LPN role in Minnesota. In Texas there are few restraints on practice, but RN's still incur more workplace liability. We get a bit more $$$ for that.