Difference between LPNs and RNs 

Stable/Predictable vs Unstable/Unpredictable Care 

In our long-term care communities, the care our nurses provide can differ between the needs of residents. The type of medical care residents require will determine whether a Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse will be the one to primarily provide them with their care.

Typically, our Licensed Practical Nurses will focus on supporting residents that’s care is stable and predictable. They will provide residents with their daily medications such as in the morning, midday and evening. LPNs also support seniors with their wound treatments.

Registered Nurses often support residents that’s medical needs are unstable and unpredictable. Their expertise helps provide additional medical care for those that need it most.

Difference in Leadership Responsibilities 

Both RNs and LPNs provide leadership to their care team, however, the level of leadership they provide can differ from one another.

A Licensed Practical Nurse supervises the personal care and assistance with daily living activities that CCAs and PSWs provide to residents. The LPN’s responsibility when supporting CCAs and PSWs is to foster and promote best practices for care. LPNs are there to help educate and give them learning opportunities as they evaluate their care.

The role of a Registered Nurse is to direct the whole care team. They support their team through providing ongoing training and education for team members. This helps the team continue their growth as they keep their experience and knowledge up to date when caring for residents.

Wondering what else does a Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse do? Understanding their impact is easy when looking at A Day in the Life of an LPN and RN.