Transition from CNA to LPN | How to Become a LPN When Already a CNA

Many choose to enter the field of nursing as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) so that they have the foundation to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) someday. Becoming a CNA before studying to become an LPN is one of the ways that many nursing professionals get a feel for the field of nursing. More and more professionals are choosing to enter the nursing field because of the great deal of promise the industry holds.

CNA Career Opportunity

The transition from Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a significant step in the nursing career ladder. It offers numerous benefits and opens up promising career opportunities in the healthcare field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for LPNs is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations (BLS, 2021). This growth is driven by factors such as an aging population, increased healthcare needs, and the expansion of healthcare facilities.

Increased Earning Potential: Transitioning from a CNA to an LPN often results in a significant increase in earning potential. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for LPNs was $48,820 in May 2020, higher than the median wage for CNAs (BLS).
Career Advancement Opportunities: Becoming an LPN can serve as a stepping stone for further career advancement in nursing. It can pave the way for pursuing a Registered Nurse degree, which offers even more opportunities for specialization and higher earning potential.
Job Stability and Demand: The healthcare industry continues to experience a high demand for qualified nurses. LPNs are in demand in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and home health agencies. The BLS projects steady growth in LPN job opportunities, providing job stability for those entering the field (BLS).

The Difference between a CNA and LPN

As an LPN, you will have a broader scope of practice compared to a CNA. LPNs have a more extensive range of responsibilities compared to CNAs, according to NCSBN. They can perform certain nursing tasks independently, while also working under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. While CNAs primarily assist with basic patient care, LPNs can:

administer medications
start intravenous (IV) drips
assist with minor procedures
perform more advanced patient assessments and care interventions
care for advanced wounds
collect samples for testing

It's important to note that the specific responsibilities and scope of practice can be influenced by state regulations, facility policies, and individual competency. Therefore, it is essential to refer to your state's nursing practice act and regulatory guidelines for accurate information.

Find a LPN Program

To transition from a CNA to a LPN, it is crucial to research and understand the specific educational and licensing requirements set by your state's nursing regulatory body. The requirements can vary slightly from state to state. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing is an authoritative resource for information on nursing licensure requirements across the United States.

When transitioning from a CNA to an LPN, enroll in an accredited LPN program. Accreditation ensures that the program meets quality standards and provides the necessary education and training. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are two recognized accrediting bodies for nursing programs.

You can find a LPN school near you by using our Free LPN School Finder tool and entering your zip code. There are also online classes and hybrid programs.

Start Your LPN School

The application and enrollment process for LPN programs may vary depending on the institution. Typically, it involves the following steps:

Research: Explore different LPN programs offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and nursing schools. Consider factors such as program length, cost, location, and curriculum.
Prerequisites: Check the specific prerequisites for the LPN program, which may include a high school diploma or GED, CPR certification, and certain academic requirements.
Application: Complete the application process, which typically includes applying form, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Entrance Exam: Some LPN programs require applicants to take an entrance exam, such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Prepare for the exam to showcase your academic readiness.
Interview: In some cases, applicants may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process. Prepare for the interview by researching the program and articulating your motivation for pursuing a LPN career.

Graduate from Your LPN Program

LPN programs typically offer a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. The coursework covers various nursing topics and skills necessary for competent practice. While the specific curriculum may vary between institutions, common subjects covered in LPN programs include:

Anatomy and Physiology
Pharmacology
Medical-Surgical Nursing
Maternal and Child Health
Pediatric Nursing
Geriatric Nursing
Mental Health Nursing
Nursing Ethics and Professionalism

The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in nursing knowledge and skills, preparing students for entry-level practice as LPNs.

The timeframe for completing an LPN program varies depending on the institution and program structure. LPN programs can range from approximately 9 months to 2 years in duration, including both classroom and clinical components. Some programs offer part-time or evening/weekend options to accommodate students who may have work or other commitments.

It's important to research different LPN programs to find one that aligns with your needs, including the program length and schedule options.

Get Hands-On Experience

Clinical emr programs training and hands-on experience are vital components of LPN programs. These experiences allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real healthcare settings, under the guidance of experienced nurses. Clinical training provides opportunities to develop essential skills such as medication administration, wound care, patient assessment, and communication.

Hands-on experience in clinical settings enhances students' ability to provide safe and competent patient care. It also helps develop critical thinking, decision-making, and teamwork skills necessary for successful practice as an LPN.

Prepare for the LPN Exam

The National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) is a standardized exam administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) to assess the competency of entry-level LPNs in the United States. It is an essential step in obtaining licensure as an LPN.

The NCLEX-PN exam is computerized and adaptive, meaning that the difficulty of the questions adjusts based on the individual's responses. It covers various areas of nursing knowledge and skills, including:

Safe and Effective Care Environment
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Psychosocial Integrity
Physiological Integrity

Find a LPN Job

*Image Courtesy of Bureau of Labor Statistics*

When updating your resume after transitioning from a CNA to an LPN, it's important to highlight both your CNA experience and completion of the LPN program. This demonstrates your progression in the nursing field and showcases your commitment to professional growth.

Incorporate relevant skills, competencies, and expanded knowledge gained through your CNA experience and LPN program. Highlight areas such as:

Clinical skills: Include skills acquired during your CNA experience and further developed during your LPN program, such as medication administration, wound care, and patient assessment.
Medical knowledge: Showcase your understanding of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and other relevant healthcare concepts gained through your LPN program.
Critical thinking and problem-solving: Emphasize your ability to assess situations, make sound decisions, and adapt to changes in patient care settings.
Communication and teamwork: Highlight your effective communication skills and ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.

Convey your dedication to patient care and your commitment to advancing your career as an LPN. This can be accomplished through:

Patient-centered care: Illustrate your focus on providing compassionate and personalized care to patients, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
Commitment to professional development: Mention any continuing education courses, certifications, or professional memberships relevant to your LPN role. This showcases your commitment to staying current with advancements in the nursing field.
Career goals: Share your aspirations for continued growth, such as pursuing specialized certifications, further education, or leadership roles in nursing.

Ace Your Job Interview

Preparing for interviews is essential when transitioning from a CNA to an LPN. Familiarize yourself with common interview questions and practice thoughtful responses. While the specific questions may vary, some commonly asked interview questions for LPN positions include:

“Tell me about yourself." Highlight relevant experiences, your journey from CNA to LPN, and your passion for nursing.
"Why do you want to be an LPN?" Discuss your motivations, such as a desire to expand your skills, provide more comprehensive care, and take on greater responsibilities in patient care.
"How do you handle stressful situations?" Share examples of how you effectively manage stress, prioritize tasks, and maintain composure while delivering quality patient care.
"Describe a challenging situation you faced and how you resolved it." Demonstrate problem-solving skills and the ability to handle difficult situations, whether it's a patient care issue or a team dynamic challenge.
"How do you ensure patient safety?" Discuss your commitment to patient safety, adherence to protocols, and the importance of thorough communication and documentation.

When discussing the transition from CNA to LPN during interviews, highlight the valuable experiences gained as a CNA that contribute to your capabilities as an LPN. Emphasize:

Patient care experience: Discuss how your time as a CNA provided you with a strong foundation in direct patient care and the importance of fostering positive patient interactions.
Expanded scope of practice: Explain how transitioning to an LPN allows you to provide more comprehensive care, take on additional responsibilities, and contribute to better patient outcomes.
Professional growth: Discuss your commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and your drive to advance in the nursing field.

During interviews, it's important to articulate your passion for nursing and your commitment to furthering your career as an LPN. Some points to emphasize include:

Compassionate patient care: Express your genuine empathy for patients, your dedication to providing holistic care, and your belief in the importance of treating patients with dignity and respect.
Lifelong learning: Highlight your enthusiasm for staying updated with advancements in healthcare, pursuing additional certifications, and seeking opportunities for professional growth.
Teamwork and collaboration: Emphasize your ability to work effectively with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, recognizing the value of collaboration in delivering optimal patient care.
Long-term career goals: Discuss your aspirations for career advancement, such as pursuing higher education, specializing in a specific area of nursing, or taking on leadership roles in healthcare.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a CNA to an LPN involves specific steps that include researching requirements, enrolling in an LPN program, completing the program, preparing for the licensing exam, updating your resume, and interviewing for LPN positions. By following these steps, individuals can successfully advance their nursing career and expand their opportunities in the healthcare field.

For aspiring LPNs, the journey from CNA to LPN offers numerous benefits, including increased earning potential, expanded scope of practice, and opportunities for career advancement. The healthcare industry continues to demand qualified LPNs, providing job stability and a rewarding profession dedicated to patient care.

The transition from CNA to LPN is a rewarding journey of professional growth in nursing. It opens doors to enhanced responsibilities, greater knowledge, and a deeper impact on patient care. By taking the necessary steps, investing in education, and showcasing dedication, individuals can embark on a fulfilling career as an LPN, making a positive difference in the lives of patients and contributing to the healthcare industry.