Differences Between LPN and CNA: Salaries and Key Details
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) both play important roles in healthcare. They have many similarities, but there are also significant differences between them. LPNs and CNAs both provide essential care for patients. The main difference between them is the type of care they offer. CNAs assist patients with everyday tasks like eating and bathing. LPNs perform more advanced nursing duties such as giving medication, updating patient records, and supporting nurses. While both LPNs and CNAs need to pass certification exams, only LPNs are licensed nurses.
This guide helps you understand the differences between LPNs and CNAs, including their salaries and key distinctions.
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Salary Differences between LPNs and CNAs
Due to their more extensive education and training, LPNs typically earn higher salaries compared to CNAs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for CNAs is lower than the U.S. median salary of $41,950. On the other hand, LPNs earn a higher median salary. Salaries can vary based on factors like experience, work environment, location, and demand.
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Here’s a comparison of their median annual and hourly wages:
– LPN: Median Annual Wage: $48,820, Median Hourly Wage: $23.00
– CNA: Median Annual Wage: $32,050, Median Hourly Wage: $15.00
(Source: BLS)
Key Differences between LPNs and CNAs
The main differences between LPNs and CNAs involve their training, scope of practice, and the tasks they are qualified to perform.
While both LPNs and CNAs commonly work in nursing homes and hospitals, LPNs may also work in physician offices, unlike CNAs. Here are some core differences between LPNs and CNAs:
– LPN: Requires a minimum of one year of training, NCLEX-PN licensure exam, limited and directed scope of practice, including medical tasks like taking vital signs, administering medication, and updating medical records. They work in various healthcare settings.
– CNA: Requires a minimum of four weeks of training, state certification exam, assisting with daily living activities like eating, dressing, and bathing. They primarily help patients with their daily needs and can work in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, home healthcare, and government facilities.
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Please note that specific requirements can vary by state, and some states use different terms. In Texas and California, LPNs are referred to as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), although their duties remain the same.
Frequently Asked Questions about LPN and CNA Salaries
1. Who earns more, LPNs or CNAs?
LPNs typically earn more than CNAs. The median annual salary for LPNs is $48,820, while for CNAs, it’s $32,050. Factors like experience, demand in the local area, workplace type, and location can affect salaries. Some highly experienced CNAs may earn more than certain LPNs, but generally, LPNs have higher salaries.
2. Are LPNs similar to CNAs?
LPNs and CNAs both work in healthcare settings and homes and perform basic healthcare tasks. However, LPNs have a focus on assisting nurses and physicians, and much of their work involves medical duties. CNAs, on the other hand, primarily assist patients with daily activities like eating, bathing, and dressing.
3. What is the hourly wage for LPNs?
The median hourly wage for LPNs is $23.00. The exact wage can vary based on factors such as experience, local cost of living, and the specific workplace.
4. Are CNAs considered nurses?
While CNAs play an important role in healthcare, they are not officially considered nurses. The title “nurse” typically refers to individuals with nursing licenses, such as registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). However, many CNAs choose to become nurses by undergoing additional training, passing certification exams, and obtaining licenses.
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