CNA
Patient Care
Providing assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, eating, using the restroom, grooming, and positioning. This may entail assisting patients in and out of bed, repositioning immobile patients, and moving patients from wheelchairs to beds. CNAs also assist patients with personal hygiene tasks such as tooth brushing, hair care, and shaving.
Monitoring
CNAs monitor patients' vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, and report any changes to nursing staff. They also monitor patients' food, water, and medication intake, and ensure patients receive appropriate diets.
Documentation
CNAs document care provided to patients, including vital signs, ADLs, patient observations, and changes in patient condition. They may also record patient information, such as dietary restrictions and food allergies.
LPN
Patient care
Performs the same patient care duties as a CNA. LPNs may also insert and care for urinary tubes, and care for patients on ventilators.
Patient monitoring
Taking and recording vital signs like blood pressure, temperature, and pulse, and monitoring patients' condition, including fluid intake and output. LPNs may also observe patients under treatment to identify progress and side effects of medications.
Patient records
Maintaining accurate patient records, including medical histories and allergen information. LPNs may also compose patient charts.
Patient care planning
Participating in patient care planning and following healthcare plans developed by doctors or RNs. LPNs may also prepare patients for discharge or transfers.
Patient care tasks
Administering medications, injections, and enemas according to a physician's instructions, and changing wound dressings. LPNs may also collect blood and urine samples for lab testing.
Communication
Communicating with patients and their families about the patient's condition and progress, and reporting patient status to nurses and doctors. LPNs may also provide emotional and psychological support when needed.
Other tasks
Assisting doctors and nurses with medical procedures, and overseeing Certified Nursing Assistants and training