LPN vs RN: How to Choose the Right Nursing Path

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), and registered nurses (RNs) play important roles in patient care, but differ in education, responsibilities, licensure, and career pathways. While LPNs and LVNs provide basic nursing care, RNs have more clinical authority and responsibility. (1)

Students comparing RN vs. LPN courses need to consider the time required to complete educational requirements and how far they want to progress in their nursing career. Some nurses work as LPNs/LVNs before taking a nursing bridge program to earn their RN credentials.

What Is an LPN or LVN?

The terms licensed practical nurse and licensed vocational nurse describe the same role. LPN is the term used in most states, while Texas and California prefer LVN. LPNs/LVNs provide basic nursing care under the supervision of physicians or registered nurses. An LPN may monitor vital signs, administer basic medications, provide patient comfort, record patient health information, and report changes to RNs or doctors. (2)

What Is a Registered Nurse?

A registered nurse (RN) also provides patient care, but has a broader scope of practice and responsibilities than LPNs. RNs work closely with physicians and medical teams and often supervise LPNs. They may help set up patient care plans, perform diagnostic tests, and operate and monitor medical equipment. RNs have a wider range of job opportunities than LPNs/LVNs, and may specialize in critical care, oncology, cardiovascular, neonatal, and other medical specializations. (1)

Comparing LPN/LVN and RN Responsibilities

LPN/LVNs provide basic patient care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, their responsibilities include: (2)

• Monitoring patient blood pressure and other vital signs.
• Changing bandages.
• Providing comfort and care to patients.
• Helping patients bathe and dress.
• Discuss care plans with patients and listen to their concerns.
• Record patient status and concerns, reporting to RNs, advanced practice nurses, or physicians
• Document patient care.

RNs can perform an LPN’s duties, but have additional responsibilities, including: (1)

• Assessing patients’ conditions.
• Recording patients’ medical histories and symptoms.
• Observing and reporting on patient status.
• Administering medication and treatments.
• Arranging plans for patients’ care or contributing information to existing plans.
• Collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
• Operating and monitoring medical equipment.
• Helping perform diagnostic tests and analyzing the results.
• Educating patients and their families on condition management.
• Supervising LPNs/LVNs.

Can an LPN/LVN Become an RN?

Absolutely. To become an RN, an LPN/LVN must earn an associate degree in nursing and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). (3) Many nurses begin their careers as LPN/LVNs, gaining practical experience before completing their nursing degree.

An LPN/LVN-to-RN bridge program provides the vocational skills a practical or vocational nurse needs to become an RN. Students who have completed LPN/LVN programs can draw on their experience to help them succeed in an RN program. LPNs often enroll in bridge programs to expand their skill set, improve their career options, and take on additional responsibilities.

How to Determine if a Career as a Registered Nurse Is Right for You

Ultimately, you’re the only one who can determine if a career as an RN is right for you. Consider how much responsibility you want and where you see your career going. The time required to become an RN is also a consideration: you can complete an LPN to RN bridge program in as few as 8-12 months, often while working. If you have a passion for continuing education and improving your career prospects, registered nursing might be right for you.

Take the Next Step Towards Your Nursing Career at Carrington College

Carrington College offers the opportunity to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing in as few as 23 months. You’ll develop the real-world skills and knowledge that can help you prepare for the NCLEX-RN.* Carrington College offers small class sizes with hands-on learning in classroom labs and supervised clinical rotations.

Students who have already earned their practical nursing or vocational nursing credential can pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing through one of our nursing bridge programs, which partially includes online courses to make attending school easier for students working as LPNs.