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Roles Of A Registered Nurse

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It takes a lot to let go of what is known, familiar and comfortable. Letting go of the LPN role and transitioning into an RN role is difficult for many. Nurses have a vast amount of opportunity for growth and change in the healthcare field. Many LPNs are choosing to expand their careers and obtain their RN license. While the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) performs a lot of the same skills, the student nurse must improve his or her skills in clinical judgment, collaboration, leadership, and delegation to effectively care for their patients as a professional nurse. There are many comparisons and differences to the role of a Registered Nurse (RN) to an LPN and can vary by their experience. However, there are differences in pay, education,…show more content…
LPNs must always be working under the supervision of an RN and are expected to report any changes in health status to their supervisor. LPN’s are also responsible for supervising nursing assistants. LPNs are not able to diagnose or treat illnesses without the approval and supervision of a doctor or an RN. They usually work at hospitals, private physician offices, nursing care facilities, and private residences. In order to become an LPN, one must complete a training program approved by the state. After completing an approved program, students must pass the state boards to obtain their license and begin practicing nursing (Noa A. 2010). It takes most students 1 year from start to finish to obtain their license in Practical Nursing and begin to work as an LPN. Once an LPN becomes an RN, their role will change in many ways. An RN graduates from a nursing program that is at least 2 years long and usually has a higher level of knowledge as compared to an LPN. RNs earn a professional degree and LPN’s earn a practical nursing degree. RNs and LPNs have similar duties when directly caring for their patients. The major role changes are based on the level of education, licensure and training they received. RNs are more independent and can come to more conclusions on their own, while LPNs work under RNs due to differences in education and
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