Should lpn try to keep cna license?

smmctowelie69 · Nov 10, 2015

I have the same dilima I have my cna 2. I want to keep it but I think there are certain rules by state

LPNtoRNin2016OH, LPN · Nov 10, 2015

I could be wrong on this but I feel like I have read that since CNA scope falls underneath your LPN scope, you no longer need an active an license if you wish to practice as one. The con is that even if you are working in a STNA capacity, your still held to the scope of your LPN practice or something of that nature...try google and your state, it may differ.

Jensmom7, BSN, RN · Nov 10, 2015

CNA is a certificate, not a license. See if you're still eligible to be on the Registry.

Just remember, even if you work as a CNA, you will be held to the higher standard of your LPN license.

Which is why it generally isn't recommended.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Nov 10, 2015

In many states you can simultaneously maintain CNA certification and LPN licensure.

However, doing so is nonsensical. As previously mentioned, the LPN license encompasses the CNA scope of practice and much more. LPNs who work as CNAs are held to the highest level of licensure they possess.

In addition, why in the world would an LPN want to bust one's butt as a CNA when LPN work is less backbreaking and pays more?

quiltynurse56, LPN, LVN · Nov 11, 2015

In my state, you need to be active as a CNA or you have to recertify. Since I am working as a LPN, my CNA will lapse. I would rather work as a LPN and fill in as a CNA. On my job, when I fill in as a CNA, I get paid my LPN wage.

kbrn2002, ADN, RN · Nov 18, 2015

The CNA certification [not license] scope of practice is generally encompassed within the the scope of practice for an LPN so I imagine keeping your certification active is probably not necessary.

That being said, I say "generally" and "probably" because every state can have different rules and requirements, so if you intend to continue working as a CNA while you hold an LPN license it is best to check the rules and regulations for your state.

Just curious, why would you want to continue working as a CNA if you are an LPN?

OnlinePersona, LPN · Nov 23, 2015

I don't understand. My CNA card says "license "

Also whenever referred to, CNA's are encompassed as apart of the licensed personnel staff.

Anyhow, I'm keeping my license active

BuckyBadgerRN, ASN, RN · Nov 23, 2015

What state is this? Nowhere that I've heard of considers CNA's licensed nursing staff. :no:

I don't understand. My CNA card says "license "
Also whenever referred to, CNA's are encompassed as apart of the licensed personnel staff.
Anyhow, I'm keeping my license active

TheAnguishedNurse, LPN, RN · Nov 23, 2015

As far as I know like the other commenters have said the scope of a CNA is covered under nursing practice. I've known LPN's and RN's that both worked as CNA when we short. As far as know neither kept the certification up. If you want to get paid nurse pay then don't worry about it. Otherwise, having a separate job as a CNA will not benefit you financially.

OnlinePersona, LPN · Nov 23, 2015

What state is this? Nowhere that I've heard of considers CNA's licensed nursing staff.

Florida.

vintagemother, BSN, CNA, LVN, RN · Nov 29, 2015

I did not renew my CNA license after graduation from LVN school.