Differences Between A CNA and A LPN

Both CNA and LPN are abbreviation used to refer to people in the nursing world. However, the two abbreviations have completely different meanings and applications. CNA stands for Certified Nursing Assistant whereas LPN stands for Licensed Practical Nurse. Although the functions of the two are mostly similar, there are some key differences that one must note. LPNs undergo more training than their CNA counterparts. As a result of more training, they have resultantly more responsibilities in the workplace than CNAs.


So you might be considering a career in nursing and you are not sure which of the two would suit you best. You need not worry though. You could do a little experimentation. You could begin by becoming a CNA with minimal training so that you can acquire first-hand skills in the nursing field. If you end up finding it fascinating, you can then enrol in college for a bridging program to turn yourself into a LPN. The program will take all the experience that you have learned in the field plus your credentials and use them into furthering your education.

Differences 

LPNs generally have more roles in the nursing world than CNAs. The CNAs are more centered on aiding the patients with all their daily requirements whereas the LPNs are more centered on the health of the same patients. However, LPNs can do any task that a CNA can do as they are more qualified. LPNs work under the supervision of a registered nurse.


A CNA performs the following roles:

• Cleaning the rooms of patients
• Re-positioning the patients
• Maintaining of a medical report on behalf to the nurse
• Give medical instructions to the friends and family of the sick patient
• Collecting samples from patients
• Oral care of patients
• Bathing and dressing the patients



An LPN on the other hand is assigned tasks like:

• Collecting patient data and inputting the same into digital medical records.
• Cleaning and preparation of the medical apparatus
• Giving of actual medicine and injections to patients
• Recording of the patients vitals
• Monitoring of food intake of patients
• Scheduling patients
• Immunization
• Management of IV drips.


The salaries of CNAs and LPNs are quite different as well. The average salary of an LPN is $42,490 per annum whereas the salary of their counterparts is $25,100 per annum.


The training of the two types of nurses is also quite different. As a CNA, no formal education is required. The only form of education that is needed is completion of the CNA training program so you can be licensed by the state to perform your duties. For an LPN, you require to complete an LPN program in an accredited institution. The program generally lasts about a year.



The prospects for the job are also quite positive. The demand for medicine related jobs in America has grown quite rapidly. The CNA demand is also quite high. In 2013 there were 25,403 job openings for certified nursing assistants. The demand for registered nurses also stood at 109,201.

Conclusion 

The advantage of all this is that you require no formal education as a nursing assistant. Once you complete the program you can work as you bridge to higher qualifications. This means you can get money as you work for your promotion. And with such a high demand for workers, the medical field is definitely the place to be. Enrolling for CNA classes is definitely the best way forward.