RN vs LPN: The Advantages of Being a Registered Nurse

Are you a licensed practical nurse (LPN) thinking of becoming a registered nurse (RN)? Although both LPNs and RNs play critical roles in delivering patient care, their professional responsibilities, career prospects and earning potential differ considerably. Many LPNs decide to become an RN given the higher salary benefits, increased autonomy and greater job security offered. 

With the growing demand for RNs, it may be one of the smartest career moves you can make. In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between RN vs LPN, the advantages of becoming an RN and how you can fast-track your education more easily and affordably. Deciding between RN vs LPN requires serious consideration but we’re here to make sure it’s the best fit for you. So let’s begin.

RN vs LPN – Which Career Path is Right for You?

Making this big career decision impacts your job responsibilities, career outlook and earning prospects. Understanding the key differences between RN vs LPN in duties, training and job prospects can better ensure your decision is well aligned with your career goals.

Education, Licensing, and Career Growth

The nursing path an LPN or RN takes varies considerably when it comes to their education, licensing and career opportunities. RN-prepared nurses must undergo extensive education and training which offers them greater autonomy, job security and specialized skills. 

Furthermore, the NCLEX exam differs considerably between RN vs LPN, with the Next Gen NCLEX-RN being more rigorous in assessing clinical judgment. Finally, RNs have greater specialization and leadership opportunities than LPNs. The table below identifies the key differences in terms of these factors:

Role and Responsibilities

The fundamental difference between RNs vs LPNs is the type of role each undertakes. Their scope of practice, autonomy and typical work settings distinguish RNs from LPNs in the healthcare workforce. Each delivers patient care based on these predefined responsibilities. The below table breaks down the key differences between RN vs LPN in the healthcare workplace.

The Changing Healthcare Landscape

As the nursing profession is evolving, healthcare facilities are preferring RNs because of their advanced education and ability to handle more complex patient care. Many hospitals and states are setting BSN-prepared RNs as the hiring and promotion standard for nursing practice. 

This shift is powered by stricter healthcare regulations, the aging population and the increased need for specialized patient care. As such, the demand for RNs is surging, while LPNs do not have this kind of job security. The table below highlights the key trends in the evolving healthcare landscape and its impact on both RNs vs LPNs.

The Advantages of Becoming a Registered Nurse

Becoming an RN comes with many advantages that LPNs do not have. Among them is greater autonomy, expanded scope of practice, a higher earning potential and greater job security. Furthermore, RNs also enjoy increased career and specialization opportunities. These advantages promise greater job satisfaction and long-term success in healthcare. In this section, we’ll explore why being an RN is a smart career choice. 

Expanded Scope of Practice and Autonomy

RNs play a crucial role in effective patient care, managing complex cases and providing sound clinical judgment for the safety and care of each patient. Alongside doctors, they assess patient conditions, develop care plans and collaborate with care teams to ensure optimal patient recovery. 

Unlike supervised LPNs, RNs independently have authority to advance treatment plans, review diagnostic tests and respond capably to emergencies. Because of this, ICU, ER and surgical departments trust RNs to handle high-pressure situations. As such, RNs are more professionally fulfilled and enjoy greater career options. 

Higher Salary and Job Security

One of the biggest benefits of being an RN is the higher salary potential and greater job security compared to LPNs. The national RN salary is $94,480 annually, $34,750 more than the average LPN salary of $59,730. This reflects the greater level of responsibility, expertise and autonomy an RN commands. Also, the demand for skilled RNs is on the rise. With a projected job growth of 6% by 2033, this demand is higher than the national average given the aging population and expanding healthcare needs. In sum, becoming an RN is a rewarding career prospect compared to being an LPN given the job stability and earning potential. 

More Career Advancement and Specialization Options

RNs enjoy greater opportunities for career growth, be it through specializations, leadership positions or with advanced education. Many RNs choose to become nurse practitioners, healthcare administrators or educators. This not only boosts their earning potential but it also solidifies their job security and professional influence. 

They can also choose to obtain a BSN, MSN or DNP degree which opens doors to specialized roles in anesthesiology, pediatrics and surgical nursing. Finally, unlike LPNs, RNs enjoy the flexibility of working in various settings like hospitals, private practices and research institutions. This degree of career mobility provides RNs opportunities for professional growth not available to LPNs.   

Bonus: How to Become an RN as an LPN (Hint: It’s Faster and Easier Than You Think)

Making the switch from LPN to RN doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process. With the right program, you can make the transition quickly, more affordably and on your own terms. Advance your career with confidence so you can enjoy all of the advantages of becoming an RN for yourself. 

Achieve Test Prep’s Fast-Track RN Bridge Program

Achieve Test Prep can fast-track your LPN to RN bridge program so that it saves you time and money. Our flexible, accelerated program is designed for busy, working LPNs. With our credit-by-exam approach, you can test out of general education and prerequisite courses, so you can avoid college busywork and focus on getting ahead. With flexible, expert-led, online instruction, you can trust Achieve to help you take your career to the next level. 

 Ready to Fast-Track Your LPN to RN Pathway Today?

Join the thousands of LPNs who have already successfully become RNs with Achieve Test Prep’s bridge program. Increase your earning potential and boost your career with our easy, affordable pathway to becoming an RN. Aiming up your LPN to RN career is one of the smartest choices you can make!