What is the difference between an LPN and a RN?
Asked by a143shane
See I'll be in the 11th grade next year and I can start college to and I need to know if I want to be an RN or LPN? I want to be the one that interacts more with the patient.

Best Answer:
RN has a degree, more schooling than LPN.As to the interaction part, I have worked with both, whether they are an LPN or RN does not matter, it is what kind of compassion and heart you have for you're patients. I have seen good and bad interaction in Rn's and LP N's. It is in you to be the most compassionate and caring person you can be, especially as the health profession carries a lot of stress. You might also consider social work, there is much one on one interaction.No matter what you choose to do, It is good you are looking and asking questions before you go where you might not want to be later.Traveling nurse is something else to look at,Physical therapist, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy,all honorable professions. Good Luck and continue your education... p.s. you might consider volunteering at a nearby hospital or nursing home for experience and inside knowledge. :)

the letters are different
Answered by carmaker33

RNs can dispense medicine. LPN can not dispense medicines
Answered by barbjs45

I don't know what state you are in but take a look at this link. Although it is specific to Connecticut it will give you general information in answer to your question.
Answered by Alex

Actually, LPNs can distribute medicine. The difference is that LPNs can't do anything with IV's but RNs can. RN's have more schooling and can do more things than LPNs can.
Answered by karieaddy

about two years of school. LPN stands for licensed practition nurse and RN is for registerd nurse
Answered by cavebyrd

The LPN does some patient care and can give some medications. The RN gives all sorts of medications and does stacks of paper work. All the dirty work falls to the Assistants who could be LPNs if they just took pharmacology and stood the bar.
Answered by greylady

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Licensed_Practical_Nurse http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Registered_nurse
Answered by Shara S

Legally, RN's are able to do more for patients than LPN. Take for example in the state of Massachusetts RN's are are able to administer IV medication, but LPN's cannot. With an RN license you would have more opportunities job wise. As far as patient interaction it would depend on the setting your working in.
Answered by ♥Nickleby

The differences between an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) vs. and RN (Registered Nurse) lie in the job responsibilities and level of training, with the LPN being below the RN in both respect. However, some LPN's do ultimately go on to become RN's later on in their careers. And both can be rewarding and enjoyable.
Answered by msoexpert