| Aspect | Entry Level Registered Nurse | Licensed Practical Nurse |
|---|
| Credentials | RN license, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | LPN/LVN license, diploma or certificate program |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, clinics, long-term care, community health | Long-term care facilities, clinics, hospitals, home health |
| Job Responsibilities | Patient assessments, care planning, administering medications, collaborating with healthcare team | Basic patient care, vital signs, medication administration, assisting RNs and doctors |
Entry Level Registered Nurses typically hold an RN license and have a broader scope of practice, including patient assessments and care planning. Licensed Practical Nurses usually have an LPN/LVN license, focusing on basic patient care and assisting RNs. Both roles work in similar healthcare settings, but RNs generally have more responsibilities and higher earning potential.