When it comes to providing care for patients, there are various roles and positions within the healthcare industry. Two important roles are caregivers and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs). While both positions involve caring for individuals in need, there are significant differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore the roles and responsibilities of caregivers and LVNs, as well as the education and training required for each position. We will also discuss the career outlook and salary potential for caregivers and LVNs.

What is a Caregiver and Licensed Vocational Nurse?

Caregiver:

A caregiver is an individual who provides assistance and support to individuals who may have physical or mental disabilities, chronic illnesses, or are elderly. Caregivers typically work in a home setting, assisting clients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication reminders. They may also provide emotional support and companionship to their clients. Caregivers often work closely with family members and other healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of their clients.

Licensed Vocational Nurse:

A licensed vocational nurse (LVN), also known as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in some states, is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians. LVNs work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Their duties may include administering medications, taking vital signs, dressing wounds, collecting samples for laboratory testing, and providing basic patient care. LVNs also observe and report any changes in a patient's condition to the supervising RN or physician.

Difference between a Caregiver and Licensed Vocational Nurse

While both caregivers and LVNs provide care for individuals, there are several key differences between the two positions:

Scope of Practice:

• Caregivers primarily assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, and meal preparation. They may also provide companionship and emotional support to their clients.
• LVNs have a broader scope of practice and are responsible for providing basic nursing care. This includes administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and performing certain medical procedures under the supervision of an RN or physician.

Supervision:

• Caregivers typically work independently or under the supervision of their clients' family members. They may collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as nurses or therapists, but they do not require direct supervision in their daily tasks.
• LVNs work under the direct supervision of an RN or physician. They follow a care plan established by the supervising healthcare professional and report any changes in a patient's condition to them.

Education and Training:

• Caregivers do not require formal education or training, although some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a caregiver training program or have previous experience in a similar role. On-the-job training is often provided.
• LVNs must complete a state-approved vocational nursing program, which typically takes about one year to complete. After completing their education, LVNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed.

Responsibility and Liability:

• Caregivers are responsible for providing assistance and support to their clients but do not have the same level of responsibility and liability as LVNs. They do not perform medical procedures or administer medications.
• LVNs have a higher level of responsibility and liability in their role. They are accountable for providing safe and effective nursing care to their patients and must adhere to legal and ethical standards.

Caregiver vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Job Description

Caregiver:

• Assisting clients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
• Preparing meals and assisting with feeding if necessary.
• Administering medications as directed by the client's healthcare provider.
• Providing emotional support and companionship to clients.
• Assisting with light housekeeping and laundry.
• Monitoring and reporting any changes in the client's condition to family members or healthcare professionals.

Licensed Vocational Nurse:

• Administering medications and treatments as prescribed by the supervising RN or physician.
• Monitoring and recording vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate.
• Assisting with diagnostic tests and collecting samples for laboratory testing.
• Dressing wounds and changing bandages.
• Providing basic patient care, such as bathing and toileting.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement care plans.
• Educating patients and their families about their medical conditions and treatments.

Caregiver vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Education and Training

Caregiver:

• Caregivers do not require formal education or training, although some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a caregiver training program or have previous experience in a similar role.
• On-the-job training is often provided, where caregivers learn about the specific needs and preferences of their clients.

Licensed Vocational Nurse:

• To become an LVN, individuals must complete a state-approved vocational nursing program, which typically takes about one year to complete.
• These programs provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to provide basic nursing care.
• Coursework may include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, and pediatric nursing.
• After completing their education, LVNs must pass the NCLEX-PN to become licensed.

Caregiver vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Career Outlook and Salary

Caregiver:

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of home health aides and personal care aides, which includes caregivers, is projected to grow 34% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for home health aides was $27,080 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Licensed Vocational Nurse:

• The BLS projects that employment of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses will grow 9% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses was $48,820 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

While both caregivers and licensed vocational nurses play important roles in providing care for individuals in need, there are significant differences between the two positions. Caregivers primarily assist with activities of daily living and provide emotional support, while LVNs provide basic nursing care under the supervision of an RN or physician. LVNs require formal education and training, while caregivers typically receive on-the-job training. The career outlook for both positions is positive, with strong job growth projected for both caregivers and LVNs.

Dreambound's educational programs are available in diverse locations. Explore these recommended blogs for a comprehensive examination of the two vocations, including in-depth insights into their prerequisites and guidance on initiating your journey:

• Caregiver in North Carolina
• Licensed Vocational Nurse in North Carolina
• Caregiver classes near you