Whats the difference between ADN and PN?

ADN is an abbreviation for associate's degree in nursing. This is a 2 year (or so) degree that is either an associate's in science (AS) or associate's in applied science (AAS) in professional nursing from a community (2-year) college. This is an entry to practice degree that is eligible from the state board of nursing for initial licensing as a registered professional nurse upon meeting all requirements and passing the NCLEX-RN national exam. Candidates complete course work in co-requisites such as English, humanitites, microbiology, nutrition, anatomy & physiology, chemistry, psychology, sociology, statistics and nursing classes such as fundamentals, adult medical-surgical, mental health, obstetrics/maternity, pediatrics, geriatrics, nursing process, and pharmacology. Generally associates degree students do not take advanced nursing management or public health classes but they may. Registered Nurses may supervise and delegate to LPNs and unlicensed assistive personnel such as patient care techs, nursing assistants, medication aides, and home health aides.

PN is short for practical nursing. (also called vocational nursing in California and Texas). This is a shorter program that is generally more hands on but takes any where from 10-18 months full time (longer if a part time class). It is often considered a vocational class so there are usually not college credits involved, but there are associates degree programs in practical nursing available in the US this is not common though. This is also an entry to practice program but with less collegiate emphasis. A&P, basic microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, pediatrics, obstetrics/maternity, geriatrics, mental health, med-surg, fundamentals, nursing process are all covered but usually with more practical skills and less emphasis on delegation. Successful completion of a practical nursing program whether certificate, diploma or associates degree as well as meeting the requirements of the state board of nursing and passing of the NCLEX-PN will give one the privilege of a license as an LPN (licensed practical nurse). Scope of practice varies throughout the states. Some are more limited than others.