Are you considering a career in nursing? If so, it’s important to understand the difference between a CMA and an LPN. This can help you decide which route is best for you. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between these two roles. Let’s get started!
What is a CMA?
- A CMA is a Certified Medical Assistant. A CMA works in a medical office or clinic and is responsible for patient care, clerical work, and other office duties. The duties of a CMA vary depending on the size of the medical practice and the number of patients seen each day.
- In a small medical office, a CMA may be responsible for greeting patients, scheduling appointments, and taking patient medical histories. In a larger clinic or hospital, a CMA may also have additional responsibilities such as checking vital signs, giving injections, or performing laboratory tests.
- CMAs must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and be able to work well under pressure. They must also be able to multitask and handle a variety of tasks simultaneously. In order to become a CMA, one must complete an accredited training program and pass the national certification exam.
What is an LPN?
- A licensed practical nurse, or LPN, is a health care professional who provides direct patient care. LPNs typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities, but they may also work in clinics and doctor’s offices.
- The scope of practice for an LPN varies by state, but generally includes tasks such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and dressing wounds. LPNs must complete a state-approved education program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) before they can be licensed to practice.
- In some states, LPNs may also be certified in one or more specialized areas of practice, such as gerontology or pediatrics. Licensed practical nurses often play a critical role on the health care team, providing direct patient care and offering support to patients and their families.
Difference between a CMA and an LPN
- There are a few key differences between CMAs and LPNs. Perhaps the most obvious is that LPNs must complete an accredited nursing program, while CMAs are not required to do so.
- In addition, LPNs are able to administer medication, while CMAs are not. Another key difference is that LPNs are able to work in more diverse settings than CMAs, who are typically limited to working in doctor’s offices, clinics, and hospitals.
- Finally, LPNs generally earn higher salaries than CMAs. While both positions provide important care to patients, these differences should be taken into consideration when choosing a career path.
Conclusion
The difference between a CMA and an LPN is important to understand if you are considering a career in nursing. A certified medical assistant has more training than an LPN, and can provide patients with basic care. An LPN has more training than a medical assistant, and can provide patients with medication and other treatments. If you are interested in becoming a nurse, it is important to understand the difference between these two positions so that you can choose the right path for you.
