When people talk about nursing, they often talk about nurses as if they are all at the same level. However, there are different levels of nursing, based on the type of nursing program you go through and the type of credentials you earn.

It is essential to understand the different levels of nursing, as they are associated with different tasks and different earning potentials. You can work your way up through the different nursing levels or pursue education to start your career at a higher level.

1. Certified Nursing Assistant

A certified nursing assistant, or CNA, is not considered a nurse, as they are nursing assistants. However, being a CNA is often the first role many people who want to become nurses hold. This is because nursing assistants work on the frontline with patients. They do things such as measuring vitals and writing down health concerns when someone comes to the doctor. A CNA can also do things such as help patients eat, use the bathroom, bathe, and dispense medication.

To become a CNA, one has to complete a short training program that takes between four to twelve weeks, depending on whether you take the course full or part-time. Becoming a CNA is a good way to figure out if you like working in the healthcare industry. 

2. Licensed Practical Nurse 

If you want to step up to being a nurse, the next level is a licensed practical nurse (LPN), often referred to as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs).

To become an LPN, one has to obtain a Practical Nursing Diploma. This type of program can usually be completed in one to two years, depending on the exact program you sign up for, and if you go full or part-time. Practical Nursing Diplomas are offered through community, career, and technical colleges. You have to pass a formal exam after you receive your Practical Nursing Diploma in order to receive your state license. 

As a licensed practical nurse, you can help with a variety of patient duties. For example, you can start IV drips, change bandages, insert catheters, and take blood pressure. As a result, you are more actively involved with more in-depth patient care and earn more money than you would as a CNA. 

3. Registered Nurse (RN)

Finally, you can become a registered nurse, which most people think about when they hear the term nurse. To become a registered near, you need to either earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or an Associate Degree in Nursing, pass an exam, and earn your license. It can take around 16 months to four years to complete the education requirements to become an RN. 

As a registered nurse, you can work in just about any healthcare setting. In addition, you can become a specialist in a specific nursing field, such as emergency nursing or pediatric nursing.

As an RN, you can record patient history, monitor medical equipment, administer medication, perform diagnostic tests, and establish care plans. This increased level of responsibility corresponds with increased salary potential. 

If you want to get your foot in the door in the medical field, starting as a certified nursing assistant is an excellent way to get started. However, if you want to earn a higher salary and take on more patient responsibility, you will want to pursue education to become a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.

Look into nursing programs in your area to get started.