Key Points:

• Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) provide basic nursing care; PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) providers focus on emergency care for children.
• LVNs typically earn less than PALS providers, as PALS requires more advanced training and certification.
• LVN jobs are more widely available, while PALS providers are in demand in specific healthcare settings.
• LVN training is primarily in-person, whereas PALS training can be done online or in-person.
• LVN training is generally less expensive and takes less time than PALS training.

When it comes to choosing a career in the healthcare field, there are many options to consider. Two popular choices are becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) or a Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) provider. While both professions involve caring for patients, they have different job descriptions, education requirements, and career outlooks. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between a Licensed Vocational Nurse and PALS, and help you determine which path may be the best fit for you.

What is a Licensed Vocational Nurse and PALS?

• Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN): A Licensed Vocational Nurse, also known as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in some states, is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. LVNs perform tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medication, and assisting with daily activities.
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) provider: PALS is a specialized certification for healthcare professionals who work with pediatric patients. PALS providers are trained in advanced life support techniques specifically designed for infants and children. They learn how to recognize and respond to pediatric emergencies, including cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, and shock. PALS providers work in settings such as hospitals, pediatric clinics, and emergency departments.

Difference between a Licensed Vocational Nurse and PALS

While both Licensed Vocational Nurses and PALS providers work in the healthcare field and care for patients, there are some key differences between the two professions:

• Scope of practice: Licensed Vocational Nurses have a broader scope of practice and can provide care to patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. PALS providers, on the other hand, specialize in pediatric care and focus solely on treating infants and children.
• Certification: Licensed Vocational Nurses must complete a state-approved nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed. PALS providers must complete a PALS certification course, which includes both online and hands-on training, and pass an exam to become certified.
• Job responsibilities: Licensed Vocational Nurses perform a wide range of nursing tasks, including taking patient histories, administering medication, and providing wound care. PALS providers focus on emergency care and are trained in advanced life support techniques specific to pediatric patients.
• Supervision: Licensed Vocational Nurses work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician, while PALS providers often work as part of a team alongside other healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses.
• Work settings: Licensed Vocational Nurses can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. PALS providers typically work in hospitals, pediatric clinics, and emergency departments.

Licensed Vocational Nurse vs PALS: Job Description

• Licensed Vocational Nurse job description:

  • Assisting patients with daily activities, such as bathing and dressing
  • Monitoring patients' vital signs and reporting any changes to the healthcare team
  • Administering medication and treatments as prescribed by a healthcare provider
  • Providing emotional support to patients and their families
  • Documenting patient care and maintaining accurate medical records
  • Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans

• PALS provider job description:

  • Recognizing and responding to pediatric emergencies, such as cardiac arrest and respiratory distress
  • Performing life-saving interventions, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation
  • Administering medications and fluids to stabilize pediatric patients
  • Communicating with other healthcare professionals to coordinate care for pediatric patients
  • Providing emotional support to pediatric patients and their families during medical emergencies
  • Documenting patient care and maintaining accurate medical records

Licensed Vocational Nurse vs PALS: Education and Training

• Licensed Vocational Nurse education and training:

  • Complete a state-approved nursing program, which typically takes about one year to complete
  • Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed
  • Continuing education may be required to maintain licensure

• PALS provider education and training:

  • Complete a PALS certification course, which includes both online and hands-on training
  • Pass an exam to become certified as a PALS provider
  • Continuing education may be required to maintain certification

Licensed Vocational Nurse vs PALS: Career Outlook and Salary

• Licensed Vocational Nurse career outlook:

  • According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses is projected to grow 9 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for healthcare services is expected to increase as the population ages.
  • The median annual wage for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses was $48,820 in May 2020.

• PALS provider career outlook:

  • The career outlook for PALS providers is tied to the overall demand for healthcare professionals. As the need for pediatric healthcare services continues to grow, the demand for PALS providers is also expected to increase.
  • The salary for PALS providers can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and work setting. According to salary.com, the average salary for a PALS provider is around $78,000 per year.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a career as a Licensed Vocational Nurse or a PALS provider is a personal decision that depends on your interests, skills, and career goals. Both professions offer rewarding opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients, but they have different focuses and educational requirements.

If you enjoy providing care to patients of all ages and want a broader scope of practice, becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you have a passion for pediatric care and want to specialize in treating infants and children, pursuing a career as a PALS provider could be a fulfilling path.

Consider your strengths, interests, and long-term career goals when making your decision. Research the educational requirements, job responsibilities, and career outlook for each profession to determine which one aligns best with your aspirations. Whichever path you choose, a career in healthcare can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

Dreambound has strategically placed its educational programs in various locations, making it easy for aspiring individuals to access valuable opportunities. For a thorough insight into the dynamic realms of these two vocations, we encourage you to delve into more detailed information by visiting:

• Licensed Vocational Nurse in Alabama
• PALS in Alabama
• Licensed Vocational Nurse classes near you
• PALS classes near you