The Difference Between LPN and RN

You begin to hear people throw around terms in a specialized field, such as LPN and RN, and things can quickly get confusing. You think you have a general idea about what they are discussing, but things can get puzzling if you aren't quite sure. Luckily for you, we have the answers that you are looking for so you can better educate yourself about what each role does and how it operates.

Key Differences Between LPN and RN 

There are some practical differences that you ought to know about when comparing an LPN to an RN. Let's take a look at a few of the key areas where these two career paths diverge.

Education and Training

The educational requirements to become an LPN are a somewhat lower bar to cross than those for an RN. This is not to say that the educational requirements are easy, but it is fair to say that one can work on becoming an LPN more quickly than an RN. For example, you can enroll in the LPN certification program at Durham Tech to begin your journey into this field. We help plenty of people take their first few steps into the field. Durham Tech also offers a more intensive RN program to help those looking to enter that field.

Supervision and Autonomy 

Those who have earned their LPN license still require a degree of supervision. They are newer and have less training and experience than others. While they are still figuring things out, it is necessary to have those in a supervision role keep an eye on their work and ensure that everything is being done to the expected standards of the practice. That said, those who work as RNs have more autonomy over their work and might not require as much supervision.

Salary and Advancement

The good news for those who pursue a career as either an LPN or an RN is that there is plenty of room for career advancement for both. The medical field grows stronger with each passing year, and both types of individuals can rely on this trend to continue. The salaries that can be commanded as an LPN or an RN are also impressive.

You should check where you wish to practice to get the latest figures regarding what you can expect to make, as it can vary regionally. That said, you should expect to earn a respectable salary almost no matter where you decide to practice in this career.

Start Your Nursing Journey Today 

There is no sense in waiting any longer to begin your nursing journey. Many people need the skills you can bring as an RN or an LPN. At Durham Tech, we will offer you the skills and training you need to make a difference in people's lives. You will be surprised by how quickly your talents will be used.

The educational and hands-on training experience you will receive at Durham Tech is second to none. If you have ever had any desire to join a field where you know that your skills will be put to use helping others, it is time to consider this. Not only will you be rewarded with a challenging and fulfilling work environment, but you will also have the opportunity to earn significant money from your hard work. Put it all together, and you can see why now is the time to consider enrolling at Durham Tech.