There exists a huge difference between CNAs and LPNs in terms of the job responsibilities, education and training, scope of practice as well as the pay scale. LPNs have a broader scope of job duties and responsibilities in comparison to CNAs. The LPNs also are more independent as compared to CNAs. LPNs also earn much higher than the CNAs.
The training program for LPNs lasts for about nine months to a year. On the other hand, the training program for CNAs is for a shorter duration ranging from 120 hours to a couple of weeks. However, CNAs can acquire the necessary amount of skills, experience and knowledge to progress their career as LPN.
LPNs generally have a greater amount of responsibility as compared to CNAs. LPNS can administer medication or IV meds that are previously selected by MD or RN. CNAs are not permitted to administer medications.
LPNs are trained in basic anatomy as well as physiology and they can differentiate abnormal from normal in the body. LPNs are also familiar with the disease process. This training is not part of CNA curriculum. Pharmacology is another aspect which is part of the LPN training but not part of the CNA training.
It is always recommended to go in for CNA training before applying for an LPN course. CNAs receive higher priority in terms of being considered for becoming LPNs. CNAs get exposure in terms of the clinical setting, and hence the chances of them succeeding in becoming LPNs is more as well as the chances of them handling their job responsibilities are more in comparison to first time LPNs who do not carry any clinical experience.
Difference between CNA and LPN
Training
For becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant, candidates need to undergo the CNA training that generally lasts from 4-6 weeks. The training needs to be approved by the state. For becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse, the candidates have to undergo the LPN training that lasts for one year. The clinical training lasts for a longer period in case of LPN training as compared to the CNA training.
Certification and License
CNAs do not need license for doing their jobs. However, it is mandatory for CNAs for obtaining the CNA certification. The CNA certification is issued by the concerned state to candidates who complete the required CNA training course and qualify for the CNA certification examination.
For working as a LPN, it is necessary to get the license for LPN. To get the LPN license, candidates should finish the training course and qualify for the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination- Practical Nurse).
Validity of License
From the issue date, the Certified Nursing Assistant certification stays valid for a period of 2 years. In certain states, there is a mandatory requirement to work as a paid nursing assistant for a certain period of time for getting the renewal of CNA certification.
From the date of issue, LPN licensure also stays valid for a period of 2 years. For getting the license renewed, LPNs need to continue educating themselves for a certain duration and also need to continue working as a paid employee in the nursing field.
Scope of Work
CNAs work under the guidance of LPNs. LPNs also supervise the work of CNAs. CNAs cannot perform the tasks and responsibilities of LPN.
In comparison to CNAs, LPNs come more directly in contact with patients. LPNS can carry out the duties of CNAs.
Job Duties
CNAs carry out the following job duties:
- Measuring patients' vitals
- Controlling infection
- Reporting the health condition of patients
- Helping patients in dressing, bathing, moving as well as grooming
- Helping the patients in ambulation
- Taking care of the patient’s hygiene needs as well as nutritional requirements
- Collecting test samples
- Cleaning the room of patients
- Answering all call signals
- Recording the food as well as food output and intake of the patients
- Taking care of the necessary documentation
- Cleaning medical equipments or instruments
- Dressing wounds
- Monitoring catheters
- Preparing as well as giving injections
- Giving massage
- Performing laboratory tests
- Recording of the patient's health condition and history
CNAs may earn a salary of around $7 to $16 every hour. The salary of LPNs is much better in comparison to CNAs. LPNs may earn $12-$25 every hour.
Thus, there are several differences between CNA and LPN. However, CNA is like a stepping stone for career advancement in the medical or nursing field.
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