If you are considering nursing, you may wonder if becoming an LPN or LVN is a better career choice. While there are many similarities in these titles, a few key differences that could aid you in your decision. In today’s post, we will cover both of these positions including the benefits, salary, and educational requirements.
What is an LPN versus an LVN?
LPN stands for Licensed Practical Nurse. LVN means Licensed Vocational Nurse. Both these terms could be used to describe the same role, but California and Tennessee are the only two states that issue LVN licenses. LVNs can practice in any state of residence. Similarly, LPNs can also administer care in any state except this licensure is offered in every state (except CA and TN). Ultimately, as the roles are the same, the job description is as well.
What do LPNs and LVNs do?
According to Herzing University, LPNs and LVNs may perform any of the following duties:
- Monitoring patients
- Taking patient vital signs and histories
- Performing routine assessments, such as checking blood pressure
- Changing bandages
- Inserting IVs or catheters
- Listening to a patient’s concerns and reporting back to RNs and doctors
- Ensuring patients are comfortable
- Helping patients bathe or dress
LPNs and LVNs may work in various settings including military healthcare centers, doctor’s offices, hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and at someone’s home as a hired nurse, and more.
Training
LPNs and LVNs must first obtain a high school degree. After that, there are 12 months of coursework with a supervised residency. Many community colleges offer programs that allow you to complete all of this. For the coursework, interested students may even take classes online. There is also plenty of room for growth within the nursing field as LPNs and LVNs can pursue becoming an RN (Registered Nurse) by passing an exam and through additional training. The demand for LPNs is expected to increase from 2021 to 2031 by 6%.
Salary
According to Indeed.com, LPNs make an average annual salary of $49,127 and LVNs make an average of $67,720. Of course, either of those numbers could be affected by the years of experience. Some companies also further adjust for the cost of living depending on location. Nurses are paid for working overtime which can happen often depending on the setting. All Allied Health Schools list the average LVN salary in CA as $66,090.
Interested in Job Opportunities?
SVS Group recently launched a healthcare division to help you find the perfect position! We are excited to partner with premiere providers to ensure that you are placed in a role that meets your needs and professional goals. If you are becoming an LVN or transferring an LPN to LPN with a move to California, we’d love to help you find the right career path. Contact our office today for more information!