What's the difference between an RN and a BSN?

What Is the Difference Between an LPN, RN & BSN?

• Answer:

  Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs) and those with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSNs) are all licensed professionals who care for patients. They differ in education requirements, earnings potential and tasks they are permitted to perform. Licensed Practical Nurses An LPN must complete an accredited nursing program of about one year and pass the NCLEX-PN test to receive a license. LPNs work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician and perform basic bedside care, taking vital signs, bathing and dressing patients, taking lab specimens and giving injections. Registered Nurses A registered nurse must complete at least two years of education to receive an associate's degree. RNs must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to receive a license. Their duties are broader in scope than an LPN's, and they administer treatments and medications, operate medical machinery and perform diagnostic testing. RNs may also specialize in a particular field, such as cardiac care, oncology or pediatrics. Bachelor of Science in Nursing A BSN must complete a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. BSNs are also registered nurses who must pass the NCLEX-RN test to receive a license. The BSN degree involves more training in areas such as communication, leadership and critical thinking. This degree is often necessary for nurses who are seeking administrative, research, consulting or teaching positions. Job Availability According to the U.S. Department of Labor, job prospects for LPNs, RNs and RNs with the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree are excellent. Employment of LPNs and RNs is expected to grow much faster than average through 2018. Nurses who have the BSN will have more opportunities for job advancement within the nursing field, however. Salaries The median yearly salary in 2008 for RNs was $62,450, according to the Department of Labor. On average, BSNs earn $8,400 more per year than RNs who have an associate's degree. For LPNs, the median yearly income was $39,030.