Both CNA and LPN work under supervision of a doctor or RN (Registered Nurse). Still LPN has wider range of responsibilities and thereby LPNs salary is higher by approximately 30%. In numbers this is a rise from $30,432 to $42,821 annualy on average.
Hint. In California and Texas LPN is known as Licensed Vocational Nurse or LVN.
Educational requirements for CNA to become LPN vary from state to state.
Regular LPN program will require two years of study on average. But if you enroll for CNA to LPN bridge program – this can take as short as nine months (up to one year). Most of the time, you will be required to have set minimal experience as CNA before study for LPN. Some schools even offer a CNA to RN program that allows you to earn your RN without LPN. What is RN?
Price for CNA to LPN program can vary from $750 to $2,500 with overall average being around $2,000.
If you’re going to work in hospital setting you will have to pass NCLEX-PN exam.
But keep in mind that these days hospitals are tend to hire RNs and LPN are mostly required in nursing homes. Good news is that these facilities are expected to have increasing demand for LPN as percent of elderly is growing.
It is not possible to achieve LPN degree fully online without in-person sessions. But you can decrease amount of time on site by applying online program – you will be able to complete some fundamental nursing courses online. Still there will be in-person session for you to demonstrate your skills and techniques.