What is the difference between certified nurse and registered nurse

They are responsible for recording patient medical history, monitoring symptoms and medical equipment, administering medicine, establishing or contributing to a plan of care, performing diagnostic tests and collaborating with doctors.

There are also opportunities for RNs to limit their work to caring for specific patient populations, such as pediatric nursing , emergency nursing , neonatal nursing , psychiatric nursing and more. RNs also have a plethora of choices outside of direct patient care.

The BLS notes that RNs might also work to promote public health, run health screenings or blood drives, or staff the health clinics in schools. An ADN program can be completed in as few as 18 months. Additional requirements may also exist depending on your state, so be sure to look into statewide RN qualifications as well. These nurses have all sorts of options when it comes to career choices. They can work independently as well as in collaboration with physicians, according to the BLS.

For a better idea of how these nurses fit in the healthcare system, see this handy breakdown the American Nurses Association offers to highlight the four types of APRNs: nurse anesthetists , nurse midwives, certified nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists. One option is to become a nurse educator and help train the next generation of nurses. Another possibility is to advance into leadership positions, like becoming a director of nursing. The next step is to gain acceptance into an accredited MSN program and earn your degree.

Depending on the specialty you wish to pursue, there might be further requirements, including clinical experience or additional certification. Some advanced practice certifications will also need to be renewed after a certain number of years to remain valid. This simple breakdown of the different levels of nursing should help you have a better understanding of your options in the field.

Even so, these only scratch the surface of the career options available within each level. Regardless of which level of nursing credential you choose, completing the TEAS test is a common education requirement you'll likely encounter.

Data represents national averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. Ranges do not represent starting salaries and employment conditions in your area may vary. It has since been updated to include information relevant to There are some errors in the form.

Please correct the errors and submit again. By selecting "Submit," I authorize Rasmussen University to contact me by email, phone or text message at the number provided. There is no obligation to enroll. CNAs are the most direct caretakers for patients in facilities such as retirement homes and often see their patients multiple times each day. They work as part of a medical team and directly with patients. Both are in high demand, and their roles are growing faster than average.

While they may seem similar, RNs and CNAs can work in different environments, have different educational paths, and earn different salaries. RN programs typically take two or four years to complete, while CNA programs often take less than one year.

RN programs offer specializations in a particular type of nursing, such as neonatology or rehabilitation nursing. CNA programs tend to be more general, do not require any college education, and focus more on direct clinical experience than on coursework. While both careers require a license, RNs pursue regular continuing education opportunities to keep their licenses active. According to the U. The remaining RNs work in residential facilities, education, or government. CNA graduates may work in more diverse settings.

Other CNAs find careers in home healthcare services or with the government. In both cases, salaries vary based on experience, geographic location, and industry. The BLS expects both fields to expand as the need for more healthcare practitioners continues to grow. An RN program might offer the perfect fit if you want a solid foundation of coursework in the science field before beginning your career.

Learn more and step into your future in nursing. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurse. News and World Report , Registered Nurse. Skip to main content. Online Degrees Blog RN vs. Your primary duties will consist of cleaning, bathing and helping patients with toilet duties. As a registered nurse, you have the widest array of responsibilities that can include providing doctor-ordered treatments, operating and monitoring medical equipment, observe and record patient symptoms and oversee a staff of licensed practical nurses and CNAs.

Linda Ray is an award-winning journalist with more than 20 years reporting experience. By Linda Ray. Credentials Certified nursing assistants must register on a state registry after passing the CNA exam. Duties The majority of CNAs work in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, although with a certificate, you can find work in hospitals, clinics and rehab facilities.