What is the difference between LPN and CNA?

LPN is the short form for Licensed practical nurses, and CAN is the short form for Certified Nursing Assistant. They are professional level in nursing. These two terms have many differences in education requirements, job responsibilities, and certifications needed.

In CNA, an aspiring nurse needs a high school diploma or GED certificate before they can enroll in the CNA training program. The program spans from 4- 12 weeks, which include classroom hours and clinical practice.

An aspiring nurse that would like to go for the LPN certification needs an in-depth formal training program; this training takes about 12 months to complete. The LPN program is more detailed than the CNA program, and the LPN is required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination. LPN makes more than the CNA.

To know the various differences between LPN or Licensed Practical Nurse and CNA or Certified Nurse Assistant, you will need to understand their responsibilities. Although, you might easily figure out that certified nurse assistants are not in the same rank as the LPNs since it is evident through their name that they are meant to be assisting the licensed nurses.

One of the major differences between the two is their mode of service. Licensed practical nurses are saddled with more responsibilities than certified nurse assistants. The basic needs of a patient are usually addressed by certified nurse assistants. This includes taking temperature, cleaning the bed, serving food, etc.

On the other hand, a licensed practical nurse does more than taking care of the basic needs of the patients. Their duties include dressing wounds, administering medications, etc. A licensed practical nurse can also prepare a medical chart.

Another difference is that an individual can become a certified nurse assistant just by undergoing some training, which usually lasts for weeks. In contrast, you will need to undergo a year training program before you can become a licensed practical nurse.