The Different Education Levels of Nursing
Nursing education varies from state to state and even among institutions. Generally speaking, however, education progresses from basic training that prepares nursing assistants to work with patients within a few months to more advanced vocational programs and bachelor's and master's degrees. Some educational institutions have specialized programs designed to allow nurses to rise to the next level, such as from licensed practical nurse to registered nurse.
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Certified Nursing Assistant
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A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, receives classroom training for a few weeks and on-the-job training for one or two months. CNAs help patients with daily tasks such as bathing, going to the bathroom and getting in and out of wheelchairs. A CNA is not considered a nurse, but works under the direction of a nurse.
LPNs and LVNs
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Licensed practical nurses, or LPNs, and licensed vocational nurses, or LVNs, typically receive their license after one year of education. LPNs and LVNs take orders from higher-level nurses and perform tasks such as developing care plans for patients, administering some medications, performing CPR and inserting catheters. Some hospitals prefer not to employ LPNs or LVNs, but a shortage of nurses in has helped loosen this policy. Many LPNs and LVNs find employment in nursing homes.
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Registered Nurses
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The registered nurse, or RN, can receive a license after two years of study in a diploma or associate degree program, but many go through a four-year bachelor's program. RNs perform all the tasks performed by LPNs and LVNs. They also operate medical equipment, assist doctors during surgery, administer nearly all types of medications and injections and supervise other nurses.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
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An advanced practice registered nurse, or APRN, is a registered nurse with advanced training in a specialty area. To qualify as an APRN, a specialty license is required. Most APRN programs require some postgraduate study or even a master's degree. Fields of specialty include certified registered nurse anesthetist, certified nurse specialist for psychiatric/mental health and nurse practitioner.
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References
- Photo Credit nursing duties image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
