Nursing: RNs Versus LPNs and Beyond |
|
 Ever wonder about the difference between a registered nurse (RN) and an licensed practical nurse (LPN)?
In short, RN is the more advanced qualification of the two. Let's compare on a few basic characteristics:
Training
LPN programs take about a year to complete and typically don't require a degree. They usually involve a year of training at a hospital, vocational school or community college. RN programs take two to three years to complete. Both positions require you to pass a certification exam — the NCLEX-PN to become a certified practical nurse, and the NCLEX-RN to become a certified registered nurse. Earning a nursing degree online first will teach you much of what you must learn in order to pass those exams.
Where You'll Work
About 60 percent of RNs work in hospitals, while only 25 percent of LPNs work in hospital settings. Twelve percent of LPNs and eight percent of RNs work in doctors' offices. Managerial positions in nursing usually require RN certification and sometimes an advanced degree.
Salary/Earnings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008, the average LPN made $39,030, while the average RN earned $62,450 — 60 percent more!
Outlook
Projected job growth for LPNs and RNs is similar. For LPNs, 21 percent job growth is expected through the year 2018. For RNs, expected growth is 22 percent
Parting Words
One — an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing will provide great preparation for passing the NCLEX-PN or NCLEX-RN, but you will need to complete a physical residency to truly become a certified nurse. And two — completing a RN to BSN program is a hugely popular way to boost your credentials and earn more in nursing if you're an RN without a bachelor's.
|
 |
Guide to a Degree in Health Services |
|
 Studying health services gives students a comprehensive background in general health, related policies and management principles, as well as applied science. Our
Guide to Health Services Degrees Online contains helpful info about studying health services online, such as:
|
|
Project Working Mom Scholarships |
|
Project Working Mom is on and awarding 285 full-tuition scholarships worth an amazing $5 million for online study at any of eight accredited, quality schools.
Visit the Project Working Mom site to apply, learn more about PWM, and get great information about being a working parent, earning a degree, funding your education, and improving your time management skills.
|
|
Meet Molly! |
|
 Master's of Extension Education
NC State University
For one busy mom living in North Carolina, graduation day is finally around the corner. Says 35-year-old Molly, "If I hadn't switched to online, it would have been much more stressful on my family, job and myself."
|
|
Weekly Highlights |
This week's highlight from the Online Education Blogs:
A new question from our
Distance Learning Discussion Forums:
|
|
|
