Duration: LPN training courses typically take one to two years to complete, while RN programs typically take two to four years to complete.
Curriculum: LPN programs cover basic nursing skills, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and providing wound care. RN programs cover a broader range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and nursing research.
Clinical experience: LPN programs include clinical experience, where students work under the supervision of a registered nurse. RN programs typically include more clinical experience than LPN programs, and students may work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Licensing: LPNs are licensed by the state in which they practice. To obtain a license, LPNs must pass the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses) exam. RNs are also licensed by the state in which they practice, but they must pass the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) exam.
Employment opportunities: LPNs can work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare. RNs have more opportunities for advancement and can work in a wider range of settings, including critical care units, operating rooms, and administration.
Salary: The median annual salary for LPNs was $48,820 in May 2020, while the median annual salary for RNs was $75,330.
Overall, LPN training courses are a good option for individuals who want to work as a nurse in a short period of time and are interested in basic nursing skills. RN programs are a better choice for individuals who want a more comprehensive education that prepares them for a wider range of nursing roles and responsibilities.