Difference between CNA and LPN

 

An LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) and a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) holds an important position in the medical facilities. Many a times, students get confused in understanding these terms and they consider the profession of an LPN and a CNA as similar. But in fact, both of the professions are very different in terms of education, training, job responsibilities, scope of practice and pay scale. Continue reading this article, to know the difference between CNA and LPN.

CNA Vs LPN: A Quick Comparison Table

Parameter CNA LPN
 Training To become a certified nurse aide, students must take a training program, which usually lasts for 4 to 6 weeks and should be recognized by the concerned state. To become a licensed practical nurse, students must complete the state accredited training program of 1-year. As compared to CNA training programs, the duration of clinical practice is greater in LPN training programs.
Certification and License Certified nursing assistants do not require license for carrying out their job. But it is essential to obtain a certification. The state issues CNA certification to those students, who complete a CNA training program of specified time duration and qualify certification examination, conducted by the concerned state. To work as a licensed practical nurse, it is essential to acquire an LPN license. To obtain an LPN license, students must complete the training program and qualify NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination- Practical Nurse).
Validity and Renewal of the Certificate/License

 

 From the date of issue, nurse aide certification remains valid for 2-years. In some of the states, it is mandatory to work as a paid nurse for specific hours, to get the CNA certification renewed. Since issue date, LPN licensure remains valid for 2-years. To get their license renewed, LPNs have to continue their education for a particular time period and they have to work as a paid nursing employee also.
Scope of Practice Nursing assistants work under the supervision of LPNs. A nurse aide cannot discharge the duties and responsibilities of a licensed practical nurse. As compared to CNAs, the contact of LPNs with patients is more straight and direct. Licensed practical nurses can discharge the duties and responsibilities of a nurse aide.
Job Duties and Responsibilities Nurse aides discharge the following responsibilities and duties:

  • Measuring vital signs
  • Reporting patient’s condition
  • Controlling infection
  • Assisting patients in feeding, bathing, dressing,  moving and grooming
  • Collecting test samples
  • Assisting in ambulation
  • Fulfilling patient’s nutritional and hygiene needs.
  • Cleaning of patient’s room
  • Answering the call signals
  • Shifting patients from bed to wheelchair or from one room to another room.
  • Recording liquid and food output/intake.
  • Documentation
 As compared to certified nursing assistants, LPNs perform more duties.

  • Monitoring and cleaning medical instruments
  • Preparing and giving enemas and injections
  • Dressing wounds
  • Monitoring catheters
  • Giving massage
  • Keeping record of the history of patient’s condition and health
  • Performing laboratory tests.

Besides performing these duties, LPNs also supervise the work of CNAs and provide training to new CNAs.
Salary Certified nurse aides may earn an income of $7 to $16 per hour. The salary of an LPN is better than that of a CNA. Licensed practical nurse may earn $12 to $25 per hour.

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