Many students, when first starting out on their career for nursing have a common question, "Should I become an CNA or an LPN?" This article will help you answer this question. CNAs are also sometimes known as orderlies, nurse aides, nurse attendants, etc.
First you have to understand a CNA is technically not a nurse, though a CNA will do a lot of nurse-like activities. A CNA helps other nurses do their jobs. A CNA will commonly feed, bathe, clean, dress, groom, or help move patients. CNAs may be involved in the administering of some medicines, depending on the laws of the state. A CNA works under the supervision of nurses and physicians. A CNA can expect a salary between $20,000 to $28,000.
An LPN on the other hand is officially a nurse. The job duties of an LPN include, taking blood pressure, administering intravenous medicines, monitor patient health, checking temperature, etc. LPNs usually work under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RN) and physicians. An LPN can expect a salary between $35,000 to $41,000.
From a training perspective, a high school graduate will have to go training school for about 6 weeks to become a CNA. To become an LPN, a high school graduate will have to go school for one year and pass a certification exam. Furthermore, the career prospects of an LPN are far greater than that of a CNA. An LPN can go on to get exemptions for doing a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) and becoming an RN, whereas a CNA cannot.
On the whole, if you are willing to put in the effort and you have the time and money to do an LPN program, then it is highly recommended that you do it. If you want something quick, but for the short term you can go for a CNA. If you are looking at a possible nursing career then becoming an LPN should be your choice for sure. Good luck
