What is the difference between a LPN, and a medical assistant?

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPNs), or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) care for the sick, injured, convalescent, and disabled under the direction of physicians and registered nurses. Most LPNs provide basic bedside care. They take vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration. Among their duties are: treating bedsores, preparing and giving injections and enemas, applying dressings, giving alcohol rubs and massages, applying ice packs and hot water bottles, monitoring catheters. LPNs are observing patients and reporting adverse reactions to medications or treatments. They have to collect samples for testing; perform routine laboratory tests, feed patients, and record food and fluid intake and output. They help patients with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene, keep them comfortable, and care for their emotional needs. In States where the law allows, they may administer prescribed medicines or start intravenous fluids. Some LPNs help deliver, care for, and feed infants. Experienced LPNs may supervise nursing assistants and aides. A Medical Assistant (MA) is a multi-competent health care professional involving administrative and clinical task to keep the offices, clinics, and laboratories of physicians running smoothly. The duties vary from on office location, size, and specialty. In small practices, Medical Assistants usually are "generalists," handling both administrative and clinical duties and reporting directly to an office manager, or physician. Those in large practices tend to specialize in a particular area under the supervision of department administrators.

In response to Treys answer WTF???? LPN is Licensed Practical Nurse and can work in hospitals and care facilities and other facilities whereas a Medical Assistant Can only work in a Dr's office or medical office working in the back office with patients and are not really a licensed profession.