What's the difference between a Licensed Practical Nurse and a Registered Nurse?

Becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse requires a 1 year course of study from a vocational school or junior college. A LPN works under the supervision of a physician or RN but can perform fewer tasks than a registered nurse. Most people who become a LPN are gaining the experience and knowledge that is necessary to become a Registered Nurse. LPNs are generally paid less than RNs.There are three different educational paths to becoming a Registered Nurse - a bachelor's of science degree in nursing (BSN), an associate degree in nursing (ADN), or a hospital-based diploma. Students must graduate from one of these 3 programs and pass a national licensing examination, known as the NCLEX-RN, in order to obtain a nursing license and achieve their RN qualifications. RN's have a significantly expanded scope of practice, education and clinical training compared to that of LPNs and generally earn more than LPNs.

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