LV Vs. RN: Scope Of Practices

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Medical Surgical
October 20, 2011

LVN vs. RN: Scope of Practices
Many nursing professionals begin their careers as LVNs (License Vocational Nurse) and later complete the requirements as a bridge to the RN. The role of the LVN has always been to provide direct care to patients in the medical setting. They usually work under the supervision of a physician or RN and perform lesser tasks than a registered nurse. The role of the RN (Registered Nurse) was specifically assigned to be a supervisory position.
Educationally, RN’s must attend about 2 years of nursing school to obtain an Associate’s Degree. The Associate of Science in nursing programs lets a student to become a RN and earn more money quickly than a 4 years BSN program, which
In some sates, an LVN never starts an intravenous line (IV), while in other states; they may be able to get an IV certification to perform this procedure. Most LVN’s can take blood or administer injections in areas where they cannot start IVs.
To take on more challenging work or to increase their salary, many LVN’s make the decision to achieve their RN after a few years of work. Some LVN’s are content with their license, positions and pay, and LVN’s can specialize in a field of medicine that they find most interesting. LVN’s are frequently paid more and are in very high demand in some positions such as in long-term care facilities or nursing homes. LVN’s who specialize in geriatrics can find a job more easily.
Because of the cost difference in salary, many facilities prefer hiring an LVN to an RN. An LVN can almost do all tasks performed by an RN in a facility or in a doctor’s office. An LVN can take vital signs, measure blood pressure, give injections, take medical history, and LVN’s are required to take CPR classes in case of emergency. Supervision is under the practicing RN’s or
Trade or medical schools and community colleges offer LVN programs. Community colleges are usually least expensive while trade schools are most likely to be more expensive. An LVN must keep his or her license through continue education like with most medical professionals. Because it is so competitive getting into the RN programs, many LVN programs are now more available than ever before. The LVN also gain an advantage above the rest should he or she wants to be an RN. Many of the RN programs are offered to those with experience in the field.
RN’s are greatly needed solely for the reason is that they provide the greatest level of care for many patients. An RN not only provides all types of care, but they also gives advice and helps coordinate other health services for their patients. An RN may be in charge of other nursing personnel such as interns, volunteers and techs. They may be also responsible for a patient’s overall case management, working together in conjunction with everyone from the patient to the primary care physician, as well as other