When it comes to healthcare careers, there are many different paths to choose from. Two common options are becoming a First Aid provider 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 what it means to work in First Aid and as an LVN, as well as the distinctions between the two roles.

Introduction

First Aid and Licensed Vocational Nursing are both essential components of the healthcare industry. However, they serve different purposes and require different levels of education and training. Understanding the differences between these two roles can help individuals make informed decisions about their career paths.

What is First Aid and Licensed Vocational Nurse?

First Aid

First Aid refers to the initial care given to a person who has been injured or is experiencing a medical emergency. First Aid providers are trained to assess the situation, provide immediate care, and stabilize the patient until professional medical help arrives. They are often the first responders in emergency situations and play a crucial role in saving lives.

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 or physicians. They are responsible for monitoring patients' health, administering medications, assisting with activities of daily living, and providing emotional support to patients and their families. LVNs work in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

Difference between First Aid and Licensed Vocational Nurse

While both First Aid providers and LVNs work in the healthcare field, there are several key differences between the two roles:

• Scope of practice: First Aid providers focus on providing immediate care in emergency situations, such as administering CPR, controlling bleeding, and stabilizing fractures. LVNs, on the other hand, have a broader scope of practice and are trained to perform a wider range of nursing tasks, including medication administration, wound care, and monitoring patients' vital signs.

• Level of training: First Aid training typically involves a short course, ranging from a few hours to a few days, depending on the level of certification desired. This training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to provide immediate care in emergency situations. LVNs, on the other hand, must complete a state-approved vocational nursing program, which typically takes about one year to complete. They must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed.

• Supervision: First Aid providers often work as part of a team or under the guidance of emergency medical services personnel. They may provide care on the scene of an accident or in a pre-hospital setting. LVNs, on the other hand, work under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians. They are an integral part of the healthcare team and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to patients.

First Aid vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Job Description

First Aid Provider

• Assessing the situation and providing immediate care in emergency situations
• Administering CPR and other life-saving techniques
• Controlling bleeding and stabilizing fractures
• Assisting with the transportation of injured individuals to medical facilities
• Communicating with emergency medical services personnel and relaying important information

Licensed Vocational Nurse

• Monitoring patients' health and vital signs
• Administering medications and injections as prescribed by healthcare providers
• Assisting with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding
• Providing wound care and dressing changes
• Collaborating with registered nurses and physicians to develop and implement care plans
• Educating patients and their families about medical conditions and treatments

First Aid vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Education and Training

First Aid Provider

• First Aid training courses are typically offered by organizations such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
• Courses range from basic First Aid and CPR to more advanced certifications, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
• Training can be completed in a few hours to a few days, depending on the desired level of certification.

Licensed Vocational Nurse

• LVNs must complete a state-approved vocational nursing program, which typically takes about one year to complete.
• Programs are offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and some hospitals.
• Coursework includes subjects such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, and medical-surgical nursing.
• Clinical rotations provide hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
• After completing the program, LVNs must pass the NCLEX-PN to become licensed.

First Aid vs Licensed Vocational Nurse: Career Outlook and Salary

First Aid Provider

• First Aid providers often work in emergency medical services, fire departments, or other first responder organizations.
• Job opportunities for First Aid providers can vary depending on location and demand for emergency medical services.
• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for emergency medical technicians and paramedics was $35,400 in May 2020.

Licensed Vocational Nurse

• LVNs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies.
• Job opportunities for LVNs are expected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses was $48,820 in May 2020.

Final Thoughts

Both First Aid providers and Licensed Vocational Nurses play vital roles in the healthcare industry. While First Aid providers provide immediate care in emergency situations, LVNs have a broader scope of practice and provide nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians. The decision to pursue a career in First Aid or as an LVN depends on individual interests, career goals, and the level of education and training one is willing to undertake.

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:

• First Aid in Georgia
• Licensed Vocational Nurse in Georgia
• First Aid classes near you