America needs nurses, of all kinds. As our population ages, and the pressure on hospitals, nursing homes, and other clinics increases, nursing professionals will only become more in demand. But what kind of nurse should you be? Here are some important clarifications and information you need to help you make your decision.
First, you may have heard about CNAs – Certified Nursing Assistants. While these individuals definitely make a difference in the quality of patient care, they are not exactly medical professionals. They go through a short training program (between 6 and 12 weeks depending on the state) to prepare themselves for the state certifying exam. CNAs perform tasks related to patient grooming and comfort, like bedmaking, bathing, and feeding. While their work is often described as the “grunt” work of nursing – and this is true, to some degree – most CNAs find their work to be quite rewarding. CNA salaries vary widely according to state, region, and institution. In Los Angeles, California, an average beginning CNA can expect to make around $30,000.
Now, LPNs (Licensed Practical Nurses) and RNs (Registered Nurses) go through much of the same preparation, at least initially, and can often be found performing the same kinds of tasks. An LPN goes to school for about a year, while RN programs average two years. Both will take classes on anatomy, physicology, medications, terminology, charting, developing care plans, etc. However, RNs must atake additional courses, often having to do with administrative functions and more complex theoretical knowledge (like biological chemistry).
While LPNs can be found as head nurses on floors in nursing homes, usually the head nurse on a floor in a hospital will be an RN. Head nurses sometimes feel like they have sacrificed some of their direct contact with patients in exchange for administrative duties, but also enjoy being able to develop overall care plans in cooperation with physicians.
The difference in salary between LPNs and RNs is significant. LPNs in the Los Angeles are average around $45,000 and RNs average $71,000. Keep in mind, though, that the initial educational investment to become an RN is significantly higher. If you don’t think you can afford to get the associate’s or bachelor’s degree necessary to become an RN, you can consider beginning as an LPN and then acquiring additional training.
But remember, no matter what you decide to do, you will likely have no problems finding work. Patient loads are ever-increasing, and with it rates of infection. It’s simple math – the more rushed a nurse is, the more likely it will be that he or she will make mistakes in handwashing or other procedures designed to minimize infection. So, by becoming a nurse, you will not only help patients regain their health under the guidance of a physician, but you will immediately make an impact on their chances of survival – just by being there.