What’s the difference between a CNA and a LPN?

A CNA is more like an orderly who offers non-medical assistance.  A person can train for a CNA with only a high school diploma – and training is usually offered in the doctor’s office or hospital which hires the CNA.  The pay is quite a bit lower than it would be for a LPN, but many people will begin as a CNA and work while they complete their additional year of post-secondary schooling for the LPN.

A LPN can offer medical services such as taking blood pressure, giving shots, and filling out medical charts.  After working as a LPN for a while, they can even supervise other LPNs and CNAs.  Working as a LPN can also be a step along the way to becoming an RN (which takes another year of specialized training).  LPNs make more than CNAs but less than registered nurses.