Nurses are the backbone of patient-centered care, but there are many different kinds. Certified nursing assistants (CNA), licensed practical nurses (LPN), registered nurses (RN), and other advanced practice nurses all bring value to both healthcare entities and patients’ experiences in healthcare facilities.
Some people start out their career as a CNA and take classes slowly to earn more advanced credentials. Others pursue RN status immediately. No matter your journey, you can pursue more advanced degrees to propel your career forward—you just have to figure out what your goals are and which program you’d like to participate in!
Differences Between RN vs LPN vs CNA
Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants all have highly demanded skills, but their privileges and abilities differ. Here are the main differences between RNs, LPNs, and CNAs.
Certified nurses assistant
LPNs and RNs rely on CNAs to help bridge gaps in patient care when they’re busy with clinical needs that require licensure. CNAs often help patients complete activities of daily living, like attending to hygiene needs. They can also change dressings, feed patients, maintain clean patient rooms, and help patients who lack mobility.
A CNA can’t perform any job duties without direct supervision, usually by a LPN or RN.
Licensed practical nurse
The next level up from a CNA is a LPN. They can perform all of the same duties as a CNA, as well as several more advanced clinical responsibilities. LPNs can clean wounds, change dressings, place catheters, and more. Different states allow different privileges for LPNs, so you may also be permitted to start IVs, administer medication, or help with other advanced clinical duties.
RNs usually provide direct supervision for LPNs, but MDs, and other advanced clinical staff can, too.
Registered nurse
While RNs aren’t the highest level nurse, they are the most well-known and provide most necessary clinical care to their patients. They can’t order medications or procedures, but they can administer medication and assist during select procedures. RNs are fully trained to draw blood, place IVs, and perform a wide variety of diagnostic tests.
MDs, nurse practitioners, and other advanced clinical personnel supervise RNs in the healthcare setting.
How to become a LPN from CNA
Transitioning from an CNA to a LPN doesn’t have to be difficult. There are many different CNA to LPN programs that bridge the gap in skills between these two essential healthcare roles.
The program that’s best for you depends on your individual circumstances. Choose an accredited program in the state where you plan to practice. This is important because each state has its own board of nursing, and each board has slightly different requirements for nursing licenses.
After you complete an appropriate program, you’ll need to take the NCLEX-PN, which is the licensing exam specifically for practical nurses. If you pass, you’ll be fully licensed and able to practice nursing in your state.
You don’t have to stop there. There are several more advanced nursing licenses that might interest you, aside from CNA, LPN, and RN. In order of seniority, you may also pursue:
- Associate of science in nursing
- Bachelor of science in nursing
- Master of science in nursing
- Nurse practitioner
In addition to increased clinical duties, these more advanced nursing licenses also provide higher wages and autonomy. The median CNA salary is $32,050. The median LPN salary is $48,820. If you’re interested in advancing your nursing career with these programs, search for nursing programs that help bridge the gap between your current license and the one you’d like to earn.
Moreover, embracing a travel role with Advantis opens up an avenue for even greater financial benefits. For example, our current listings include travel LPN jobs offering impressive weekly earnings of $2,332. This rate significantly exceeds the standard median LPN salary, highlighting the lucrative opportunities available through travel nursing. Our commitment at Advantis is to not only provide a white glove, stress-free experience but also to ensure our nurses have access to high-paying jobs across the US. By choosing a travel nursing role with us, you’re not just advancing your career; you’re also stepping into a role that recognizes and rewards your valuable skills and dedication.
A Travel Nurse Agency That Truly Cares
We take great pride in supporting travel nurses with more than just top travel nursing jobs—we’re building trusted, long-term partnerships that make your journey smoother, more rewarding, and stress-free. With over 700 5-star reviews and dozens of real nurse testimonials sharing their experiences, we’ve earned our reputation as the #1 travel nurse agency.
Our Advantis Gold Standard ensures you receive personalized support, exclusive travel job opportunities, and a level of care designed to put you first. Whether you want one-on-one guidance from a Pro Recruiter or prefer to explore travel jobs on your own, we’re here to make it easy. Start your next adventure today—explore high-paying travel nurse jobs and discover what’s possible!
