LVN vs. LPN

What's the Difference Between LPN and LVN?

Hospitals and medical facilities are places of healing and recuperation. In these specialized environments, illnesses and injuries are treated, new life is brought into the world, and existing lives are saved. Serving the needs of patients of all ages requires the efforts of a large cadre of medical experts, with nurses forming the front line of patient care and recovery. If you've been interested in a future in the medical field, particularly one involving practical or vocational nursing, you may be confused by the difference between LPN (Licensed Practical Nurses) and LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurses). 

The major difference between LPN and LVN is the name and the geographical location where one term is used in favor of the other. In California and Texas, the state nurse licensing board refers to the position as licensed vocational nurse. In all other states, the position is called licensed practical nurse.

For example, if an LVN in California or Texas moves to another state, the new licensing of the state will refer to the same person as an LPN. An LPN who moves to and becomes licensed in California or Texas will be referred to as an LVN.

LPNs and LVNs perform essentially the same duties in all states. They are responsible for the most basic care provided to patients. This type of fundamental care contributes significantly to patient comfort, aids in recovery and recuperation, and helps patients maintain a positive outlook through the compassionate aid and attention of a nursing professional.

What Exactly Do LPNs and LVNs Do?

LPNs and LVNs usually work under the supervision of registered nurses or medical doctors. They must have the physical strength and stamina to be on their feet for extended periods, to move around frequently, and to help move patients and medical equipment. They must have the cognitive ability to quickly and accurately:

  • Assess basic patient needs
  • Call upon their knowledge and training when necessary
  • Communicate accurately with both patients and other members of the medical staff
  • Use and read medical equipment and testing devices, such as blood pressure monitors, oxygen monitors, and other important equipment

Common duties of LPNs and LVNs include:

  • Monitoring basic health issues and functions, such as patient blood pressure
  • Providing basic nursing care with issues such as changing bandages, caring for wounds, or inserting catheters
  • Providing assistance with personal care, such as bathing or dressing
  • Helping patients safely stand up, sit down, or walk from place to place
  • Communicating with patients about their condition and their health care, providing a caring and compassionate source for listening and understanding
  • Maintaining records of patient interactions and important health data
  • Communicating observations, vital signs, and other important information to doctors, registered nurses, senior nurses, and other health care professionals

More experienced LPNs and LVNs may attain a supervisory role over newer or less experienced LPNs and LVNs and over some members of the non-licensed medical staff.

What are the Educational & Licensure Requirements for LVNs and LPNs?

Persons who are interested in becoming a LPN or LVN can do so by pursing a degree, certificate, or diploma in the field, which typically take about a year to complete. Most LPNs and LVNs enter the field with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).

LPNs and LVNs must also be licensed by the state in which they will practice. Licensing requires passing a certification exam, most commonly the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, or NCLEX-PN, developed and administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Nurses are not able to practice without this licensure, regardless of the state in which they practice.

Ready to Start Life as a Nurse?

Does a future in nursing appeal to you? Is your sense of duty and compassion activated by the thought of being able to bring comfort and relief to the sick and the injured? Can you see yourself helping to promote healing in one of the country's most vulnerable populations? If so, life as a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse might be for you. ECPI University's Practical Nursing Diploma program could prepare you for the challenges and satisfactions as an LPN or LVN in a hospital, clinic, doctor's office, nursing home, or other medical facility. Contact ECPI University’s College of Nursing today to find out more. It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

Learn more about ECPI's College of Nursing TODAY!

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