| Aspect | Registered Nurse | Licensed Practical Nurse |
|---|
| Credentials | Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), RN license | Diploma or certificate from a practical nursing program, LPN license |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, clinics, community health, long-term care | Long-term care facilities, clinics, hospitals, home health |
| Job Responsibilities | Assess patients, develop care plans, administer medications, coordinate care | Provide basic patient care, monitor vital signs, assist with activities of daily living |
Registered Nurses typically have more advanced training and responsibilities compared to Licensed Practical Nurses. RNs perform comprehensive assessments, develop care plans, and handle complex medical tasks, while LPNs focus on basic patient care and support under supervision. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings, but RNs generally have greater autonomy and scope of practice.