The Role Differences between an LPN and an RN

When differentiating the role differences between an LPN and an RN the analytical level of competence acquire by an RN is the first to come to mind. Harrington & Terry (2009) state that “more emphasis in now being placed on the higher analysis level. This reflects the increased complexity inherent in the scope of practice and job analysis study for registered nursing (Harrington & Terry, 2009, p. 204)”. In contrast, the primary role of an LPN is stated “to provide nursing care for clients who are experiencing common, well defined health problems in structured health care settings (Harrington & Terry, 2009, p. 201)”. RNs are taught to investigate the symptomatic cause of a disorder (labs, symptoms, history, imaging etc. ) which allows the registered nurse to use critical thinking skills to create a care plan for the patient. The LPNs are taught to identify a disorder report their findings to the RN. The registered nurse role is that of self-governing nursing and licensed practical nurses role is supervised nursing. Another difference in the role of LPNs and RNs is the immense opportunities available to registered nurses.

Renfrow identifies case management, forensic medicine, Parish nursing, teaching as well as, specializing in areas interest as a few of the numerous areas a registered nurse may partake in. LPNs “are limited to giving medications, administering direct patient care in a hospital, nursing home or home health agency, or working in a physician’s office (Renfrow, MSN,RN C, APN, 2007, para. 2)”. Clearly RNs have the advantage of broader practice as appose to the limitations placed on LPNs.

Finally, the financial gain of an RN is substantial compared to that of an LPN. RNs make on the average of $ 20,670 more than LPNs according to Renfrow’s article the national Tennessee average in 2005 was $36,210 for an LPN and $56,880 for an RN. Ultimately the role differences between the LPN and RN are the registered nurse shoulders the responsibility of the LPN as well as her/his own duties. RNs serve as the primary service-nursing provider for the patient. References