Becoming an RN or LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) means you’re in a position to ensure job security, grow in your chosen field and help countless people in the process. There are key differences in these positions and both jobs carry many advantages. Let’s have a look at how these two extremely necessary jobs in the medical field differ and what advantages they share.
Key Differences of Becoming and RN or LPN in 2024
RNs spend a much longer time in school in order to obtain their degree and licensure. RNs, in most cases, complete a Bachelor of Science degree and then must pass a licensure exam (NCLEX). LPNs typically attend a one-year Practical Nurse program and then must pass their licensure exam (NCLEX for Practical Nurse).
LPNs work under the supervision of RNs and doctors. As an LPN you’ll perform many tasks including recording a health history of your patient, taking vitals, collecting samples for testing, administering some medications and providing for your patients’ overall comfort.
As an RN you do invest more time in your education, however, your degree opens more doors. RNs work in doctors offices, hospitals and care facilities. LPNs can work in those environments as well but are more often employed in care facilities like rehabilitation centers, nursing homes and long term care. LPNs are also suited for home health and private duty.
The Advantages of Becoming an RN or LPN in 2024
There are several advantages to both careers. Some are similar and some are different. Here we take a look and compare both careers to help you determine the best pat for you.
Advantages of Becoming an LPN
- Less Time to Start Your Career: If you don’t have a lot of time to invest, the path to LPN is much shorter. You can begin working in a matter of months.
- Less Financial Investment: Because you’re not in school as long your educational expense is quite a bit less.
- In Demand: As the aging population grows the demand for quality LPNs in care facilities, nursing homes and assisted living centers is high.
- Career Growth Opportunities: You’ve already set a foundation in your nursing career thanks to your experience as an LPN. You can easily further your education and become an RN.
Advantages of Becoming an RN
- High Earning Potential: With the current demand for quality RNs at an all-time high (and expected to get higher) RNs have the upper hand in negotiating salary.
- Broader Scope of Practice: RNs are licensed to perform many different medical tasks such as certain procedures, diagnostic tests, administering medication and developing care pans for their patients.
- Career Growth: RNs have a greater opportunity to advance and specialize in their career. Many RNs pursue the required certifications for such specializations as oncology, surgical emergency and pediatric nurse.
- Job Security: The need for quality nurses will never go away. In fact the demand for nurses is predicted to increase significantly over the next decade.
Advantages of Becoming an RN or LPN in 2024
- Job Satisfaction: Because of the meaningful type of work both nursing positions perform there is a considerable amount of job satisfaction felt by RNs and LPNs.
- Ability to Choose Where You Want to Work: While RNs have more opportunities, both RNs and LPNs can work in various healthcare organizations and find the job meets their needs.
- Respect and Presence Within the Community: As essential workers within their communities both nurses have the trust and respect of their neighbors. Also, both RNs and LPNs are in a unique position to educate and inform people within their own communities regarding health and wellness.
- Opportunity for Professional Development: Becoming an RN or LPN in 2024 means you can choose to advance your career for yourself. As an LPN you can pursue more education and better opportunities by earning certifications or getting into a bridge program to become an RN. And RNs are in a great spot to pursue career growth through certification for specialties or advancing to a higher level of nursing such as NP or PA.
Find Out More
Whatever path you choose, a career in nursing holds so many advantages for you both personally and professionally. Find out the right path for you and opportunities that await when you contact BOS Medical Staffing.
