LPN vs CNA: Explaining the Difference for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Many individuals entering the healthcare field find themselves at a crossroads, perhaps mistakenly believing that the roles of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) are largely interchangeable. This misconception can lead to confusion and uncertainty when deciding which career path to pursue. In 2023, the U.S. health care sector employed over 17 million individuals, highlighting the vast opportunities available, yet underscoring the importance of making an informed career choice.

With over a decade of expertise in career planning, the Research.com team has compiled information from only credible sources to clearly explain the distinct responsibilities, educational paths, and career progression associated with LPNs and CNAs. By understanding these key differences, prospective students can confidently identify the role that best aligns with their skills, interests, and long-term professional aspirations.

Key Things You Should Know About the Difference Between LPN and CNA 

• LPNs have a broader scope of responsibilities, including patient monitoring, medication administration, and basic medical procedures, while CNAs focus on basic patient care like assisting with daily living activities and recording vital signs.
• Becoming an LPN requires about a 12-month accredited program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam, whereas CNA certification typically involves a 4 to 16-week state-approved training and a certification exam.
• LPNs generally earn a higher median salary of around $62,140 annually compared to CNAs, who earn about $41,734, reflecting the differences in education, responsibilities, and career advancement opportunities.

Table of Contents 

1. What are the core responsibilities of an LPN versus a CNA?
2. What are the key differences in the required skills and qualities for LPNs and CNAs?
3. What are the educational requirements to become an LPN compared to a CNA?
4. How long does it take to complete an LPN program versus a CNA certification course?
5. Are there online LPN programs or CNA courses available?
6. How do the job settings and work environments differ for LPNs and CNAs?
7. What is the typical salary and earning potential for an LPN versus a CNA in the United States?
8. What advanced education options can further elevate nursing careers?
9. How can online degree programs enhance career trajectories for LPNs and CNAs?
10. What are the career advancement opportunities for LPNs and CNAs?
11. What are the consequences for LPNs and CNAs if they exceed their legal boundaries?
12. What are the emotional demands of being an LPN versus a CNA?
13. What pathways exist for non-nurses to advance their careers?
14. Other Things You Should Know About the Difference Between LPN and CNA

What are the core responsibilities of an LPN versus a CNA?

Understanding the distinction between LPN vs CNA roles is crucial for anyone considering a career in nursing. Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants are both vital members of the healthcare team. However, their roles, responsibilities, and required training differ significantly.

Core Responsibilities of an LPN

• Patient Monitoring: LPNs check and record vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration rate.
• Medical Care: They administer medications (including injections and IVs, depending on state regulations), perform wound care, change bandages, insert catheters, and assist with other basic medical procedures.
• Patient Assessment: LPNs interview patients about symptoms, medical history, and allergies, and document this information in medical records.
• Reporting and Communication: LPNs report changes in patient condition to registered nurses (RNs) or physicians and communicate care plans to patients and families.
• Administrative Tasks: LPNs may help coordinate patient referrals, answer phones, and maintain supply inventories.
• Supervision: LPNs often supervise CNAs and ensure proper delegation of tasks. 

Core Responsibilities of a CNA

• Basic Patient Care: CNAs assist patients with ADLs, including bathing, grooming, toileting, dressing, eating, and mobility.
• Vital Signs: They may take and record vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature, and report findings to supervising nurses.
• Patient Comfort and Safety: CNAs help move and reposition patients, answer call lights, and ensure patient comfort and safety.
• Environmental Maintenance: They serve meals, make beds, clean patient rooms, and maintain sanitary conditions.
• Support Tasks: CNAs may set up medical equipment and stock supplies, and assist with some medical procedures if trained and allowed by state regulations.

• Observation and Reporting: CNAs observe patients for changes in condition or behavior and report these to LPNs or RNs.

You may also want to know the difference between a CNA and a medical assistant, especially in terms of their job descriptions. Questions like "Do medical assistants draw blood" and whether CNAs do, too, are very common. Both medical assistants and CNAs cannot draw blood unless they get the right certification for it and their state allows them to do it. Of course, there's also questions on "Can CNAs and can medical assistants give injections?" Read our separate articles on the topic.

What are the key differences in the required skills and qualities for LPNs and CNAs?

The required skills and qualities for Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants share some common ground, such as compassion, empathy, patience, and strong communication abilities, but differ significantly due to the scope of their responsibilities.

Key Skills and Qualities for LPNs

• Clinical and Technical Skills: LPNs must have a more advanced skill set, including medication administration, wound care, catheter insertion, and patient assessments. They are also expected to be proficient with medical technology and maintain accurate patient records. 
• Attention to Detail: LPNs need to be highly observant and detail-oriented. They are responsible for detecting subtle changes in patient conditions and ensuring accuracy in medication and care delivery.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: LPNs regularly make decisions in dynamic situations, often requiring quick thinking and the ability to prioritize care, especially during emergencies.
• Leadership and Supervision: LPNs may supervise CNAs and must be able to delegate tasks effectively and ensure quality care.
• Communication: They serve as a bridge between patients, families, and the healthcare team, requiring clear, concise communication and active listening skills.
• Stamina and Adaptability: LPNs often work long shifts and must be able to adapt quickly to changing patient needs and healthcare environments.
• Ethics and Confidentiality: Strong ethical standards and a commitment to patient confidentiality are essential.

Key Skills and Qualities for CNAs

• Basic Care Skills: CNAs are skilled in assisting patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, feeding, dressing, and mobility support.
• Observation and Reporting: While CNAs do not perform assessments, they must observe and report changes in patient condition to supervising nurses.
• Physical Endurance: The role is physically demanding, requiring the ability to lift, move, and reposition patients, often for extended periods.
• Empathy and Compassion: CNAs frequently interact with patients who need emotional support, making empathy and compassion vital qualities.
• Teamwork and Communication: Effective collaboration and communication with patients, families, and the healthcare team are essential for CNAs.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: CNAs must be able to adapt to varying patient needs and work environments. 

What are the educational requirements to become an LPN compared to a CNA?

The educational requirements for becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) versus a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) differ in both length and depth of training.

LPN Educational Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED: Required to enroll in an LPN program.
• Accredited Practical Nursing Program: Completion of a state-approved program, typically lasting about 12 months (can range from 7 months to 2 years).
• Coursework and Clinical Hours: Includes subjects like nursing, biology, pharmacology, and hands-on clinical training.

• Licensure Exam: Must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain a license and practice as an LPN.

CNA Educational Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED: Usually required, though some programs may allow concurrent enrollment for high school students.
• State-Approved CNA Training Program: Shorter in duration, typically 4–12 weeks, and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice.
• Certification Exam: After training, candidates must pass a state certification exam, which includes both written and practical (skills) components. 

The chart below shows the most common LPN and CNA degrees.

How long does it take to complete an LPN program versus a CNA certification course?

The time required to complete an LPN program versus a CNA certification course differs significantly:

LPN Program Duration

• Most LPN programs take about 12 months (1 year) to complete if attending full-time, though some can be as short as 7 months or as long as 2 years, depending on the school and whether the student attends part-time or full-time.
• Programs typically include both classroom instruction and clinical experience.

CNA Certification Course Duration

• CNA certification courses are much shorter, typically taking 4 to 16 weeks to complete, depending on the program and state requirements.
• Some programs may last up to 6 months, but most fall within the 1- to 4-month range.
• Courses include classroom learning and hands-on clinical training.

Are there online LPN programs or CNA courses available?

There are online LPN programs and CNA courses available, though both require some in-person clinical training to meet certification and licensure standards. Many accredited schools offer online or hybrid LPN programs where students can complete theoretical coursework virtually. When considering enrollment, a common question is, “What is the easiest LPN program to get into?” While admission requirements can vary between institutions, generally, LPN programs require a high school diploma or GED and may have specific prerequisite courses or entrance exams. On the other hand, hands-on lab sessions and clinical rotations must be done in person at affiliated healthcare facilities. These programs typically last about 12 months and prepare graduates to take the NCLEX-PN licensing exam.

Similarly, CNA certification courses are offered in online or hybrid formats. For CNAs looking to advance their careers, a key consideration is finding the best CNA to LPN bridge programs online. These programs are specifically designed to build upon a CNA's existing knowledge and experience, often offering a more streamlined path to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. These bridge programs allow students to complete much of the theoretical coursework online, while still requiring in-person attendance for lab skills practice and clinical training. Although much of the academic coursework for both LPN and CNA training can be completed online, all reputable programs include mandatory in-person clinical experiences to ensure students gain the practical skills needed for safe and effective patient care.

How do the job settings and work environments differ for LPNs and CNAs?

Certified Nursing Assistants and Licensed Practical Nurses play vital roles in patient care. However, their job settings and work environments differ due to differences in training, responsibilities, and scope of practice.

CNA Work Settings

CNAs are most commonly employed in:

• Nursing homes and long-term care facilities: This is often the starting point for many CNAs, who assist with daily living activities for residents who require ongoing care.
• Hospitals: CNAs may work in various departments, providing basic care and support under the supervision of nurses. Hospital positions are competitive and often require prior experience.
• Assisted living facilities: Here, CNAs help residents who are generally more independent but need assistance with some daily tasks.
• Home healthcare: CNAs may visit patients in their homes, providing personal care and support. The patient load is typically lighter, but assignments can be less consistent.
• Hospice care: CNAs provide palliative support to terminally ill patients, either in facilities or at home.
• Correctional institutions: Some CNAs work in prisons, assisting with the basic care needs of inmates.

Work environment characteristics for CNAs:

• High level of direct patient interaction and physical contact
• Physically demanding, often requiring lifting and repositioning patients
• Work as part of a team, usually under the supervision of LPNs or RNs
• May work day, night, weekend, or holiday shifts, often with set schedules

LPN Work Settings

LPNs have a broader scope of practice and are employed in:

• Hospitals: LPNs assist with medical tasks such as administering medications, wound care, and monitoring patient status. They work closely with RNs and physicians.
• Long-term care facilities and nursing homes: LPNs oversee patient care, manage medications, and may supervise CNAs.
• Clinics and doctors' offices: LPNs perform routine assessments, assist with procedures, and provide patient education.
• Home healthcare: LPNs deliver more advanced care in patients' homes, including health maintenance and recovery support.
• Rehabilitation centers: LPNs assist with patient recovery and rehabilitation plans.

Work environment characteristics for LPNs:

• Greater autonomy and responsibility than CNAs
• May supervise CNAs and other support staff
• Involved in both direct patient care and medical procedures
• Work in a variety of settings, often with more opportunities for specialized roles.

In 2023, there were approximately 1.4 million nursing assistant jobs and about 657,800 licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse jobs in the United States. The chart below shows the job outlook of nursing assistants and LPNs:

What is the typical salary and earning potential for an LPN versus a CNA in the United States?

In the United States, the salary and earning potential for LPNs are significantly higher than those of CNAs. A common question for those considering a career in nursing is, "How much do nurses make?", and the answer varies depending on the role.  On average, LPNs earn a national median salary of about $62,140 per year, or roughly $30 per hour. Meanwhile, CNAs earn a median annual salary of $41,734. 

Even in the best-paying settings, CNA salaries do not approach those of LPNs. While both roles are essential in healthcare, the salary gap reflects the differences in education requirements, job responsibilities, and scope of practice. LPNs also have more opportunities for career advancement, which can further increase their earning potential. The chart below shows the top six highest-paying LPN jobs in 2025. 

What advanced education options can further elevate nursing careers?

For healthcare professionals, pursuing advanced education creates pathways for leadership and specialized practice that extend beyond the standard care framework. Structured programs—ranging from accelerated bachelor’s degrees to master's and doctoral studies—offer enhanced curricula in clinical management, health informatics, and policy development without duplicating existing content on basic career advancement. These programs are designed to refine critical decision-making skills and foster evidence-based practice while accommodating the demands of active professionals. Flexible online formats, such as the shortest DNP programs online, allow working nurses to integrate advanced training seamlessly into their schedules, ensuring continual growth in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

How can online degree programs enhance career trajectories for LPNs and CNAs?

Online education is increasingly becoming a strategic tool for healthcare professionals seeking to expand their scope of practice without interrupting their current roles. By enrolling in accredited online programs, LPNs and CNAs can transition to advanced positions, updating clinical and managerial skills with practical, evidence-based coursework. Flexible program schedules, asynchronous learning modules, and virtual hands-on simulations empower students to balance work responsibilities with career progression. For example, many industry professionals take advantage of easy online RN to BSN programs, which provide a streamlined path to Registered Nurse credentials while emphasizing contemporary practices in patient care and leadership.

What are the career advancement opportunities for LPNs and CNAs?

Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants both have opportunities for career advancement, but the paths differ in scope and potential.

LPNs can advance by becoming Registered Nurses (RNs) through LPN-to-RN bridge programs, which lead to higher pay and more responsibility. For LPNs seeking flexible options, exploring LPN to RN online programs can be a viable route, allowing them to complete much of the coursework remotely while still fulfilling in-person clinical requirements. They can also earn specialty certifications (such as in IV therapy or gerontology), move into supervisory roles, or transition into related fields like healthcare administration, case management, or health education.

CNAs can advance by obtaining additional certifications (such as becoming a CNA II, medication aide, or patient care technician), which allow them to perform more complex tasks and may increase pay. The most significant advancement for CNAs is to pursue further education to become an LPN or RN, which greatly expands their career options and earning potential.

Once LPNs and CNAs have advanced into becoming RNs, they can move further up the nursing hierarchy by pursuing a master's degree in nursing (MSN) or a doctorate so they could become nurse practitioners (NPs) or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Learn more about the Doctor of Nursing Practice or DNP roles and responsibilities to understand how they differ from that of an MSN.

LPNs and CNAs who are more interested in doing research, becoming an expert in pharmacology, and working to discover, develop, and test new drugs and new therapies can also pursue a degree in pharmaceutical science. Given the scope of their responsibilities, pharmaceutical scientist salary is very rewarding.

What are the consequences for LPNs and CNAs if they exceed their legal boundaries?

Exceeding legal boundaries can have serious consequences for both LPNs and CNAs, affecting their professional status, employment, and legal standing.

For LPNs, crossing professional boundaries such as performing tasks beyond their scope, engaging in inappropriate relationships with patients, or violating patient confidentiality can lead to disciplinary actions ranging from warnings and fines to suspension or permanent revocation of their nursing license. More severe violations, especially those involving abuse or sexual misconduct, often result in immediate license cancellation with no opportunity for reinstatement. LPNs are legally responsible for maintaining professional boundaries and ensuring therapeutic nurse-client relationships; failure to do so can also expose them to allegations of neglect or abuse, legal liability, and damage to their professional reputation.

CNAs, while not licensed nurses, also face consequences if they exceed their legal scope of practice. Performing unauthorized clinical tasks or neglecting assigned duties can lead to termination of employment, loss of certification, and potential legal action. Since CNAs work under the supervision of licensed nurses, violations may also trigger investigations by employers and regulatory bodies. Malpractice or negligence by CNAs can result in lawsuits against the individual and the employing facility.

What are the emotional demands of being an LPN versus a CNA?

Working in nursing, whether as an LPN or a CNA, is emotionally demanding because both roles involve close, daily contact with patients who may be suffering, anxious, or at the end of life. While 91.1% of nurses experience high levels of burnout, the specific emotional demands vary due to differences in responsibilities, patient relationships, and scope of practice.

Emotional Demands of Being an LPN

LPNs are responsible for various medical tasks. This broader scope of practice means LPNs often face the emotional challenge of making critical decisions and dealing with the outcomes, both positive and negative. They must balance the need for clinical detachment with compassion, providing emotional support to patients and families while managing their reactions to suffering, trauma, and sometimes death.

LPNs can experience compassion fatigue, an emotional exhaustion resulting from caring for distressed people. The pressure of handling multiple patients, complex care plans, and sometimes difficult family interactions can also contribute to stress and burnout. LPNs need strong emotional intelligence (EI) and coping strategies to maintain their well-being and continue providing high-quality care.

Emotional Demands of Being a CNA

CNAs focus on direct, hands-on care, such as bathing, feeding, and assisting patients with daily living activities. This close, personal interaction often leads to strong emotional bonds with patients. CNAs are present for some of the most vulnerable moments in a patient’s life, which can be deeply rewarding but also emotionally taxing.

The emotional strain for CNAs often comes from witnessing patient decline, suffering, or death up close. Because they spend so much time with patients, losses can feel very personal. The physical demands of the job, combined with the emotional labor of providing comfort and support, can lead to burnout-especially if CNAs feel undervalued or unsupported by their workplace. Developing healthy coping mechanisms, such as peer support and self-care, is essential for managing these emotional challenges.

What pathways exist for non-nurses to advance their careers?

Professionals from diverse backgrounds now have opportunities to enter advanced practice roles through innovative educational pathways. Direct entry programs offer a streamlined transition by integrating foundational clinical training with advanced theoretical coursework, enabling candidates without traditional nursing experience to secure leading roles in patient care. For instance, enrolling in an accelerated master's nurse practitioner program for non-nurses equips applicants with the competencies required for effective clinical decision-making and specialized practice. These programs emphasize mentorship, evidence-based practice, and skill development to facilitate a smooth integration into healthcare settings, ultimately broadening the talent pool and enhancing care outcomes.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Working as an LPN or CNA 

Becoming a CNA allowed me to directly support individuals in their daily lives, offering comfort and practical assistance. Knowing I make a tangible difference in someone's well-being, even in small ways, brings a unique sense of fulfillment to my work. - Sabrina 

As an LPN, I appreciate the balance of patient care and the opportunity to utilize my medical knowledge in a hands-on setting. It's rewarding to build connections with patients and their families while contributing to their overall health journey. - Ryan 

The healthcare field, whether through my work as a CNA initially or now pursuing further education, offers continuous learning and varied experiences. Witnessing the resilience of patients and being part of their recovery process is a deeply meaningful aspect of this career path. - Taylor 

Key Findings 

• In 2023, the U.S. healthcare sector employed over 17 million individuals.
• LPNs in Washington state have the highest average annual salary at approximately $70,380.
• The highest-paying CNA job is a Nurse Aide Evaluator, with an annual salary of $106,000.
• Approximately 91.1% of nurses experience high levels of burnout.
• CNA certification courses can take up to 16 weeks to complete.

Other Things You Should Know About the Difference Between LPN and CNA 

Where do LPNs get paid the most?

LPNs get paid the most in Washington state, where the average annual salary is approximately $70,380. The high wage in this state reflects the demand for healthcare workers and the higher cost of living in this region. 

What is the highest-paying CNA job?

The highest-paying CNA job is a Nurse Aide Evaluator, with an annual salary of $106,000. Despite similar pay across different skill levels, locations, and experience, the U.S. job market for Nurse Aide Evaluators is currently very active, with numerous open positions.

What is equivalent to a CNA?

The roles most equivalent to a Certified Nursing Assistant include Patient Care Technician, Nurse Aide, Nursing Assistant, Patient Care Assistant, and Home Health Aide. These positions share similar core duties, such as assisting patients with daily living activities, monitoring vital signs, and providing basic care under the supervision of nursing staff. Some titles, like Patient Care Technician and Nurse Technician, may involve slightly more advanced tasks but are often used interchangeably with CNA in many healthcare settings. 

What strategies can CNAs use to manage burnout? 

CNAs can manage burnout by prioritizing self-care-getting enough rest, eating well, and engaging in relaxing activities. Setting boundaries, such as limiting overtime and saying no to extra shifts, helps prevent overload. Seeking support from colleagues, friends, or professionals is crucial for emotional well-being. Practicing stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, or brief meditation can lower stress levels. Finally, pursuing professional development or new opportunities can reignite passion and provide a renewed sense of purpose in their work. 

References: 

• BLS. (2025, April 18). Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/licensed-practical-and-licensed-vocational-nurses.htm
• BLS. (2025, April 18). Nursing assistants and orderlies. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nursing-assistants.htm
• Bureau of Health Workforce. (2024). State of the U.S. healthcare workforce [PDF]. Health Resources and Services Administration. https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/state-of-the-health-workforce-report-2024.pdf
• Galanis, P., Moisoglou, I., Katsiroumpa, A., Vraka, I., Siskou, O., Konstantakopoulou, O., Meimeti, E., & Kaitelidou, D. (2023). Increased Job Burnout and Reduced Job Satisfaction for Nurses Compared to Other Healthcare Workers after the COVID-19 Pandemic. Nursing reports (Pavia, Italy), 13(3), 1090–1100. https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep13030095
• Zippia. (2025, January 8). What is a certified nursing assistant and how to become one. https://www.zippia.com/certified-nursing-assistant-jobs
• Zippia. (2025, January 8). What is a licensed practical nurse and how to become one. https://www.zippia.com/licensed-practical-nurse-jobs
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). CNA salary. Retrieved April 29, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cna-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Licensed practical nurse salary. Retrieved April 29, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Licensed-Practical-Nurse-Salary#Yearly
• ZipRecruiter. (2025). What is the average LPN salary by state. Retrieved April 29, 2025, from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/What-Is-the-Average-LPN-Salary-by-State