Scope of practice

[lorirn101]

I would just like to comment on the topic of the difference between a RN and a LPN. There are many differences between a RN and a LPN other than education requirements. For example, LPNs cannot legally give IVP medications. Also, LPNs must work under the direction of a RN. The "scope of practice" for a RN and a LPN differs greatly and is ruled by your state licensing board for nursing.

[LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN]

Is this related to a particular topic???

FYI, LPNs can work "under" a nurse or provider; LPNs have their own license, and their scope if practice varies by state and institution.

As a former LPN and now an RN; I learned about how to assess, ahem, data collect and care planning and the entire nursing process and leadership during PN school; the difference in the education was the broadening of how to effectively delegate; learning about management in regards to learning hospital and floor economics, research and more in depth about EBP/EBM. I learned in PN school what EVERYONE's role on the healthcare team was, in order to clearly identify my own scope of practice.

As a practicing LPN that worked alongside and precepted LPNs and RNs, so LPNs can educate as well, and have been known to be wonderful educators from LPNs and RNS as well. Just not initial teaching or assessments either...but I digress.

Differentials between ratio of pts and what patient population we can be assigned to is up to scope of state, as well as facilities; the only difference in some places I worked was the letters behind the name; and the fact that I couldn't become certified in particular specialities that I worked; the main reason I returned of school-I had great "expertise", but couldn't be recognized as an "expert" in my practice, due to scope and role.

Being an LPN served it's practice for me, for seven years, and many nurses over generations; for me enabled me to gain a vast knowledge and experience that served me well as a wonderful base for my RN knowledge.

Not sure what your experience is; according to your profile, you are a "pre-nursing student"; either way, you will encounter and/or be educated by a LPN or a former LPN....just sayin'...