RN and LPN accountabilities and responsibilities

Although the scopes of practice of RNs and LPNs overlap, the main difference between the two scopes lies in the breadth and depth of the knowledge, and the clinical judgments of registered nurses. Changes in staff mix and introducing LPNs into organizations that were previously staffed only by RNs provide challenges for all care providers. Moving from all RN staffing to an RN-LPN mix requires redefining how care is delivered. Carefully planned, with an awareness of the scopes of practice and of the breadth and depth of nursing knowledge of RNs and LPNs, these changes can be accomplished with minimal conflict and disruption.