| Aspect | RN Nurse RN | LPN Nurse LPN |
|---|
| Required Credentials | Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Nursing, NCLEX-RN certification | Diploma or Certificate in Practical Nursing, NCLEX-PN certification |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, clinics, long-term care, community health | Long-term care facilities, clinics, hospitals (supervised roles) |
| Scope of Practice | Comprehensive patient care, assessments, care planning | Basic patient care, monitoring, assisting with procedures |
RN Nurse RNs typically have a broader scope of practice, higher education, and more responsibilities than LPN Nurse LPNs. RNs often work independently in various healthcare settings, while LPNs usually assist RNs and work under supervision. Both roles are essential in patient care, but RNs generally handle more complex tasks and decision-making.