Although registered nurses and licensed practical nurses are called nurses, their education, scope of practice and salaries are much different. States differ on what LPNs and RNs are allowed to do.
Education
Most, but not all, RNs have some college training. RNs might graduate with a bachelor of science in nursing, a four-year degree, a two-year associate's degree or a three-year diploma degree, which includes some college classwork but doesn't result in a college degree. LPNs graduate from a one-year program that might include some college credits.
Training
Both LPNs and RN train in a hospital setting, but RNs have more training in theory and disease processes and in developing a plan of care for the patient that addresses all the patient's needs.
Scope of Practice
States set their own scope of practice laws for LPNs and RNs. Typically, only RNs can do an initial patient assessment and diagnose the patient with nursing diagnoses, not medical diagnoses. LPNs in some states, such as New York state, cannot alter care plans, according to the New York State Education Department.
Workplaces
LPNs and RNs both work in hospitals, nursing homes and outpatient settings such as doctor's offices. In some states, LPNs cannot work in the operating room or function as nurse managers or team leaders.
Differences in Salary
RNs generally make between $25 to $40 per hour; LPNs salaries are $8 to $10 hour lower. RNs can go on to earn a master's degree or doctorate in nursing or become a certified practitioner. For LPNs, the only advancement is to become an RN.
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