Whether receiving healthcare or considering a future career, it is important to know the differences between a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Though individuals in both of these professions function as integral members of the nursing team, their job descriptions and qualifications are distinctly different.
The main difference in these two professions is in the scope of practice. A Licensed Practical Nurse is authorized to administer medication prescribed by a registered nurse or a physician, while a Certified Nursing Assistant cannot. An LPN is trained in anatomy and physiology and taught how to differentiate abnormal from normal. This skill is not part of the training received by CNAs.
The education of an LPN takes places over a period of nine months to two years, usually through a community college or teaching hospital. This education includes instruction on pharmacology, functions of the body, and clinical practice. Licensed Practical Nurses must participate in varied clinical setting to receive vital hands-on training.
CNAs on the other hand, usually complete their training in a four to weigh week period completed online or in person. Certified Nursing Assistants receive training specifically focused on best safety practices while conducting patient care and observing patients and how to report the observations. The emphasis of the training CNAs receive is typically based on settings in long-term care facilities.
LPNs work with the physician or managing RN in developing and implementing a care plan for patients. They are comfortable and familiar with pharmacology and it is regularly their job to administer medications. In the nursing hierarchy, LPNs are below RNs and above CNAs.
One of the responsibilities of a Licensed Practical Nurse is to make sure that CNAs are informed of their daily duties in an accurate and timely manner. They must also ensure the appropriate resources are available for the CNA to carry them out.
Like LPNs, CNAs can also work in different settings. Most commonly though, they work in long term care facilities, hospitals or as home health aides. Though they may receive additional training, CNAs generally have limited education in pharmacology and so it is not in their job description to administer medications. Certified Nursing Assistants focus on effective communication between the patient and staff. Due to their regular and close interaction with patients, they are vital in noticing important changes in patients. CNAs are responsible for most of the patient’s basic needs.
The higher educational requirement and scope of responsibilities justify the higher pay LPNs receive. CNAs though, receive respectable remuneration and enjoy a wide market for their skills.
Though there are
distinct differences in CNA and LPN roles and responsibilities, they are
both very important and necessary in providing patients with quality
care.
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