Trying to understand difference between LPN and RN practice....

[lovesunsets]

I've been wondering about this lately...

Just from reading on here, I've become aware of some of the differences between LPNs and RNs. Some of the things I've read were pushing IV meds and a few other things I can't recall them. But it doesn't seem like there is a whole lot of difference between the pn and rn. Am I wrong? Please fill me in...

I am not a nurse. I've applied to an LPN program...hoping & praying I get in.

Here's my question to the nurses- If there aren't THAT many differences between the 2, why is there such a difference in pay?

And if I am wrong, please inform me....

Thanks so much everyone:)

[LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN]

So just the two things? I was trying to find out the procedures that LPNs aren't allowed to do by searching on Google... May I ask, what is the pay per/hr you received as a hospital LPN?

Thanks :)

The scope of the practical nurse varies by state; also depending on the area whether LPNs are utilized in hospitals.

Pay will also vary; again, depending on the state, urban vs. rural, etc.

In my state, LPNs are able to be IV therapy certified, to the point of even accessing Central Lines.

The scope of practice expanded in LPNs hanging blood products.

The line of scope still entails that LPNs cannot do initial assessments and initial patient teaching; LPNs contribute to the POC.

I have been able to make polices and educate staff and do QA work as a LPN, on top of the bedside work that is a part of every nurses' role.

I became an RN for the ability to become certified in the specialities that I worked in, or choose to work in; plus having a full scope and the pay that goes along with it are a plus as well.

[LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN]

To add: research the areas you are interested in working, whether they hire LPNs, and make an informed decision.

Good Luck!

[athenaspell2]

LPNs are nurses who do not hold a degree. ( unless they attend college for another discipline and this can make a huge difference ).

RN classes are much more in depth than LPN. Im an LPN; ( 33 years worth) with two college degree's and also finishing my RN in 6 months ... The sciences are much advanced as is the pathophysiology and Micro B... It opens your eyes more...

My opinion is this... On the floor.. we do the same thing. Ive been doing case management for 7 years and I just took a DON position. BSN nursing can be learned on the job... administration and case management can be learned in other ways... Nurse leadership cannot come from just a text book... I do see it as important to define the things I may have missed. RN and LPN do the same job but LPNs are no longer allowed to function in higher acute care roles in general.

LPN are diploma functional RNs without the license. LPN- LOW PAID NURSE...lol.. I understand associate and Masters levels are probably needed in nursing.. but and AS nurse can be a BSN without college in my opinion. Ive learned it as an LPN... so my BA degree and PhD general eds are there.. The nursing cores I am testing out of. I learned it another way... No less legitimate. I am not knocking colleges. I am saying nurses can and do learn on the job.

[Fiona59]

I think Athena needs to stop playing with her spells.

What happens in her world isn't definitive to nursing.

LPNs in MY world function in ICU, NICU, ER, Dialysis and a cardiac facility with a world wide reputation.

We are educated at a two+ year diploma level and many of us hold degrees in other fields. So we are not as uneducated as she would have us appear.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

LPNs are nurses who do not hold a degree.

So I can safely conjecture that you have never heard of the associate of applied science (AAS) degree in practical nursing? It is offered at many community colleges and technical schools across the US.

In the US, not all LPNs are non-degree holders.

[muffylpn]

I hate these types of posts as you always get some nasty comments. I honestly try to avoid them. The answer is: What state are you talking about? The state matters. And YOU can find that answer on the website for your board of nursing