LPN vs CNA
LPN refers to Licensed Practical Nurse and CNA refers to Certified Nursing Assistants, or Aides. Many students who are studying to be nurses, may find the difference between these two terms a bit confusing. Well, the definitions themselves indicate many differences. LPNs are licensed nurses, whereas CNAs are only certified nurses.
One of the major differences between a LPN and a CNA, is the mode of their services. Licensed Practical Nurses have more duties to perform than Certified Nursing Assistants.
A Certified Nursing Assistant usually takes care of the basic needs of a patient. Their basic responsibilities include serving food, bathing, dressing, tidying up beds and taking temperatures. A Licensed Practical Nurse administers medications, dresses wounds, takes pressure, monitors catheters, and fills out medical charts.
A LPN can perform the duties of a CNA. On the other hand, a CNA cannot perform the duties of a LPN. Well, LPNs have more direct contact with patients than CNAs.
There is also a difference in education between a LPA and a CNA. A person who wants to become a Licensed Practical Nurse will have to undergo a one-year learning process, that involves both theory and clinical practice. On the other hand, a person can become a CNA after only a few weeks of lessons. They have to just learn personal care skills, and nothing as complicated as a person who pursues a LPN exam.
In order to get a nursing license, a LPN has to pass a state licensing examination. On the other hand, a person qualifies for a CNA certification once he/she has completed the training.
Another difference that can be seen between a Licensed Practical Nurse and a Certified Nursing Assistant, is their salary. A LPN gets a better salary than a CNA.
Summary:
1. LPNs are licensed nurses, whereas the CNAs are only certified nurses.
2. Licensed Practical Nurses have more duties to perform than Certified Nursing Assistants.
3. A LPN can perform the duties of a CNA. On the other hand, a CNA cannot perform the duties of a LPN.
4. LPNs have more direct contact with patients than CNAs.
5. A person who wants to become a Licensed Practical Nurse will have to undergo a one-year learning process that involves both theory and clinical practice. On the other hand, a person can become a CNA after only a few weeks of lessons.
6. A LPN gets a better salary than a CNA.