How much nursing training do I need?
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
* Education: Practical nursing program (typically one to two years)
* Licensure: Required in all states
* Scope of practice: LPNs can provide basic nursing care, such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and providing wound care. They may work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or private homes.
Registered Nurse (RN)
* Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) program
* Licensure: Required in all states
* Scope of practice: RNs can provide all levels of nursing care, including critical care, surgical care, and psychiatric care. They may work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or private homes.
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
* Education: Master's degree in nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program
* Licensure: Required in most states
* Scope of practice: APRNs can provide advanced nursing care, such as diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and ordering tests. They may work in hospitals, clinics, private practices, or universities.
The amount of nursing training you need depends on the type of nursing career you want to have. If you are interested in providing basic nursing care, you can become an LPN after completing a one to two-year program. If you want to provide more advanced nursing care, you can become an RN after completing a BSN or ADN program. And if you want to pursue a leadership role in nursing, you can become an APRN after completing an MSN or DNP program.