March 31, 2025

Registered Nurse vs Licensed Practical Nurse

Registered Nurse verses Licensed Practical Nurse

Introduction - Nursing is a profession within the health care sector focused on the care of individuals, families, and communities so they may attain, maintain, or recover optimal health and quality of life. It is health care profession that "integrates the art and science of caring and focuses on the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and human functioning; prevention of illness and injury; facilitation of healing; and alleviation of suffering through compassionate presence".

Nursing –

The word Nursing comes from the latin word "nutrix" meaning to "nourish or cherish.

Definition –

"Nursing is a dynamic, caring, helping relationship in which the nurse assists me client to achieve and obtain optimal health’’

According to Canadian Nurses Association (CNA)

OR

"The unique function of the nurse is to assist the wide dual, sick or well, in the performance of those activities contributing to health or its recovery for to peaceful death’’

According to Verginia Henderson

Registered Nurse –

A registered nurse (RN) is a licensed medical professional who provides hands-on care in different medical and community settings. This includes: Hospitals, Nursing homes, clinics etc.

Registered nurses help with many health-related tasks. They also see patients every day. Most RNs: Manage care, Control safety and infection, Promote and maintain health, Provide basic care and comfort. Registered nurse plays an active role in conceptualizing patient treatment plans, LPNs tend to be much more task-driven in their work and are typically responsible for actually carrying out those treatments.

Licensed Practical Nurse-

A licensed practical nurse, also known as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) in some states, works under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. The duties of an LPN include taking vitals, collecting samples, administering medications, and ensuring patient comfort.

LPNs main focus of their days is providing care to their patients and less about management. LPNs tend to work in environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, long-care facilities, and other medical facilities.

Difference between Registered Nurse Licensed Practical Nurse.

Comparison of Registered Nurse and Licensed Practical Nurse

Elements of Comparison	Registered Nurse (RN)	Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Education and Training	Typically complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree (about four years). Covers nursing theory, clinical skills, and research. Training includes critical thinking, leadership, and advanced nursing concepts.	Complete a diploma program (about two years). Focuses on practical nursing skills and basic nursing care. Emphasizes hands-on clinical experience.
Scope of Practice	Broader scope of practice in various healthcare settings. Responsibilities include assessing patients, creating care plans, administering medications, providing direct patient care, and performing advanced nursing procedures. Can specialize and take leadership roles.	More focused scope of practice under supervision of RNs or healthcare professionals. Responsibilities include monitoring vital signs, administering medications, assisting with personal care, and collecting patient data.
Autonomy and Responsibility	Higher level of autonomy and responsibility. Involved in decision-making, developing care plans, and initiating interventions. Conduct independent nursing assessments and may hold leadership positions.	Work within a healthcare team following established care plans. Less autonomy in decision-making but essential in implementing nursing interventions.
Career Opportunities and Advancement	Wider career opportunities, including specializations in pediatrics, critical care, oncology, or mental health. Can pursue advanced education (master’s or doctoral degrees) for roles like nurse practitioner, educator, manager, or clinical specialist.	Opportunities within the practical nursing framework. Can specialize in areas like obstetrics, geriatrics, or community health. May take on leadership roles within their scope or gain additional certifications.