Key Points:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants provide basic patient care; Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) have more advanced responsibilities.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistants typically earn less than LVNs, with the average pay being lower.
• Both roles are in high demand.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistants require less training, often completing a certificate program, while LVNs must complete a more extensive diploma or associate's degree program.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistant training is generally less expensive and shorter in duration compared to LVNs.

When it comes to pursuing a career in healthcare, there are many different paths to choose from. Two popular options are becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant (CNA) or a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). While both roles involve providing care to patients, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore the responsibilities, education and training requirements, career outlook, and salary potential for both Acute Care Nursing Assistants and Licensed Vocational Nurses.

What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and Licensed Vocational Nurse?

Acute Care Nursing Assistant (CNA)

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants, also known as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), provide basic nursing care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
• They assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding patients.
• CNAs also take vital signs, document patient information, and provide emotional support to patients and their families.

Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)

• Licensed Vocational Nurses, also known as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in some states, provide basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians.
• They administer medications, dress wounds, monitor patient progress, and assist with medical procedures.
• LVNs also collect patient data, including vital signs and medical history, and help educate patients and their families on healthcare topics.

Difference between an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and Licensed Vocational Nurse

1. Scope of Practice

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants primarily assist with activities of daily living and provide basic care to patients.
• Licensed Vocational Nurses have a broader scope of practice and are able to administer medications, perform wound care, and assist with medical procedures under the supervision of an RN or physician.

2. Supervision

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants work under the supervision of licensed nurses, such as RNs or LVNs, and report directly to them.
• Licensed Vocational Nurses work under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians, and they may also supervise CNAs and other unlicensed healthcare personnel.

3. Responsibilities

• While both CNAs and LVNs provide care to patients, LVNs have additional responsibilities such as medication administration and wound care.
• CNAs primarily focus on activities of daily living and providing emotional support to patients.

4. Decision-Making Authority

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants do not have decision-making authority and must follow the instructions of licensed nurses or physicians.
• Licensed Vocational Nurses have some decision-making authority, but they must still work within the guidelines set by their supervising RN or physician.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Job Description

Acute Care Nursing Assistant

• Assist patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.
• Take and record vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, and pulse.
• Assist with transferring and positioning patients.
• Provide emotional support to patients and their families.
• Document patient information and report any changes in patient condition to the supervising nurse.

Licensed Vocational Nurse

• Administer medications, including oral, topical, and injectable drugs.
• Monitor patient progress and report any changes in condition to the supervising RN or physician.
• Perform wound care, including dressing changes and wound assessment.
• Assist with medical procedures, such as catheter insertion and IV therapy.
• Educate patients and their families on healthcare topics, including medication instructions and disease management.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Education and Training

Acute Care Nursing Assistant

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants typically complete a state-approved nursing assistant program.
• These programs can be completed in a few weeks or months and include both classroom instruction and clinical training.
• After completing the program, CNAs must pass a state competency exam to become certified.
• Some states may also require CNAs to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Licensed Vocational Nurse

• Licensed Vocational Nurses must complete a state-approved practical nursing program, which typically takes about one year to complete.
• These programs include both classroom instruction and clinical training.
• After completing the program, LVNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed.
• Some states may also require LVNs to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Career Outlook and Salary

Career Outlook

• The demand for healthcare professionals, including Acute Care Nursing Assistants and Licensed Vocational Nurses, is expected to grow in the coming years.
• The aging population and advancements in medical technology contribute to this increased demand.
• CNAs and LVNs can find employment in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare agencies.

Salary

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Nursing Assistants was $30,830 as of May 2020.
• The median annual wage for Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses was $48,820 as of May 2020.
• Salary can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and level of education.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant or a Licensed Vocational Nurse requires careful consideration of the responsibilities, education and training requirements, and career outlook for each role. Both roles provide opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients, but they have different scopes of practice and levels of responsibility. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual interests, career goals, and personal preferences.

Ensuring accessibility for individuals seeking growth, Dreambound strategically places its educational programs in various locations. Delve into a more comprehensive understanding of the exciting opportunities within these two vocations by visiting:

• Licensed Vocational Nurse in Kansas