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Comparison between LPN vs CNA

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

Comparison between LPN vs CNA

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) both occupy similar roles in the healthcare industry. Both are entry-level positions that play a key role in ensuring smooth operations and high-quality care. When you look further into the specifics, you will see that they differ in several key areas. What is the difference between LPNs and CNAs? What is the best option for an aspiring HCP looking to enter the industry? Read on to learn all this and more.

Roles and Responsibilities of LPN and CNA:

CNAs are primarily responsible for basic care duties, under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), LPN, or other HCP. Patients are often in no condition to take care of these tasks on their own, which is why CNA work is so important. This includes:

  • Assisting patients with eating, feeding, and bathing
  • Cleaning out their rooms and replacing bed linen
  • Moving them from room to room by carrying them and/or transferring them via wheelchair.
  • Monitoring patient vital signs and reporting any changes to their superiors.

By comparison, LPNs take on more advanced responsibilities. Like CNAs, they also need direct supervision from an RN before they carry out their duties such as:

  • Collecting biological samples such as blood, urine, and saliva.
  • Administering medications and vaccinations
  • Carrying out the care plan created by RNs.
  • Performing emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
  • Feeding patients through nasogastric and gastrostomy tubes,
  • Applying and maintaining medical tools such as tracheostomy tubes, ventilators, and urinary catheters.
  • Providing wound care.

In summary, LPNs provide more direct clinical patient care, while CNAs assist other HCPs (Including LPNs) and carry out a more limited scope of care services. Both are crucial for any healthcare facility to function.

Educational Requirements of LPN and CNA:

Compared to other HCP roles, both LPN and CNA have accessible educational requirements. Education and training for RN roles and beyond are a serious investment, both timewise and financially. By comparison, aspiring CNAs only need a General Educational Development (GED) or high school diploma to enroll in a state-approved training program that lasts around 4 to 12 weeks. Students can expect some supervised clinical work and coursework that covers anatomy, psychology, patient rights, and basic care practices. These classes can be found in most community colleges, vocational schools, Red Cross branches, and even some medical facilities. You can find some online classes, but even those will have a hands-on component.

The differences between LPNs and CNAs lie in the extent of their training. LPN training programs are more detailed and complex. These accredited certificate/diploma programs will take over 1 to 2 years to complete. Coursework will include more complex subjects such as pathophysiology, ethical issues in nursing, medication dosage, administration, and specialized care. Just like with CNA programs, however, you can find them in a lot of community colleges and vocational schools. These classes also emphasize hands-on clinical training, even if you enroll in an online course.

Certification

After you graduate from your respective training program, it is time to apply for certification. This ensures that you meet the state’s criteria for knowledge, training, and competence as an LPN or CNA. LPNs nationwide need to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Meanwhile, CNAs have to complete a state-specific competency exam. Pre-test requirements will vary from state to state, but they will generally ask for your high school diploma, proof of completion of an accredited CNA training program, a minimum number of CNA training hours, and sometimes even a criminal background check. As soon as you take and pass these tests, you will gain the certification needed to practice in your chosen role.

LPN Salary vs CNA Salary

For many nurses, income is the biggest deciding factor in which entry-level nursing career they ultimately choose. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), CNAs earn around $30,290 a year while LPNs earn $48,070 annually. Salaries will also depend on the experience, location, and facility you are working in, but LPNs will generally outearn CNAs in most contexts. Between their greater responsibilities and the increased difficulty of their tasks, it is no wonder why this is the case. Regardless, both will be expected to be in high demand for the years to come thanks to aging patient populations and increasing nurse turnover.

The best option

The differences between LPNs and CNAs are considerable, but they share much in common. Both HCPs are valued in the workplace and will allow you to build experience and capital for further education and training, down the line. Which one works best for you will depend on your circumstances. If you have limited resources or you want to start healthcare work as soon as possible, then CNA is the way to go. If you can invest in a longer training period and you prefer greater responsibilities and more intimacy, then LPN is the job for you. Regardless of what you pick, CNA and LPN are perfectly respectable entry-level career paths for aspiring nurses.

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The Best Tax Deductions for Per-Diem Nurses

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

The Best Tax Deductions for Per-Diem Nurses

The freedom of per-diem nursing work comes with increased financial responsibilities. Your employer does not automatically deduct taxes from your income, so you either handle your taxes on your own or with the help of an accountant. Navigating tax laws for travel nurses may seem daunting at first until you realize the benefits. Filing your taxes means that you get to select your write-offs. You would be surprised by just how many transactions can be filed under “work-related expenses.” Whether you are a 1099 nurse practitioner or a CNA, start writing off the following purchases to save on taxes in the incoming financial quarter.

Stipends

On long assignments away from home, travel nurses are sometimes provided stipends to make life easier. Stipends are provided periodically throughout your contract, to cover costs related to temporary housing, meals, and other related expenses. The entire stipend is tax deductible, though the costs that qualify for a stipend may vary from agency to agency. Once you know said costs, keep all your work-relevant receipts as you work through your travel contract. Nurses also need to present proof of a “tax home” before their stipends can be filed as tax-free.

For the uninitiated, your tax home is essentially your regular place of residence and work. The IRS formally defines a tax home as “the general area of your main place of business, employment, or post of duty, regardless of where you maintain your family home.” For example: if you normally pick up shifts in Los Angeles, then LA itself would be your “tax home.” In this case, stipends are only deductible if they are spent while you work outside LA. This is a common occurrence for travel nurses, who often accept contracts that take them away from their primary residences for months on end.

Proof of tax homes includes (but is not limited to) rental contracts, utility bills, and other relevant household expenses.

Travel

Under current tax laws for travel nurses, contractors can deduct travel expenses. This is especially relevant now with gas prices surging by the day. As you drive between new assignments, be sure to keep track of the miles traveled in order. Parking fees and toll fees also fall under this category. Hang on to relevant receipts to make things easier on yourself. Some travel agencies will even provide travel reimbursement once you are finished with your travel nursing contract. This is also deductible, provided you show proof of a tax home.

Travel costs are only tax-deductible if they are incurred outside your tax home. The money spent going from your primary residence to your regular place or area of work cannot be written off in tax returns. You also cannot deduct taxes from non-work-related travel expenses. If you take a Grab from your workplace to a local strip mall, then the cost of the Grab is not tax-deductible.

Uniform

1099 nurse practitioners can write off money spent on scrubs and lab costs, provided that they are not reimbursed by their facilities. Sometimes, you can also deduct expenditures for shoes you only use at work. If a hospital requires you to wear certain shoes, then your work shoes may also be considered tax deductible. Be sure to keep track of how much you spend on your work uniforms throughout the year.

Telecommunications

Whether you are booking shifts through the VitaWerks app or communicating with patients through the phone as a tele-health nurse, nurses are using their internet and phones more often when they work. They can write off part of their internet and phone bills as long as they only list the portion used for work. To calculate this, estimate or keep track of how long you use the internet or phone services as you carry out your nursing duties. If you have a phone subscription entirely dedicated to work, you can deduct 100% of the bill.

Continuing Education

In most states, nurses are required to fulfil continuing education requirements to maintain their licenses. As a result, CE course costs count as a tax break for healthcare workers in 2021 and beyond. However, any education that “prepares you for new employment” is not tax-deductible. This means that nursing students cannot file tuition costs on their tax returns.

Housing Costs

Nurses who take longer-term stints in far-off places will typically spend a lot on short-term housing. Whether it is a hotel, Airbnb, or housing provided by your employer, housing and utility costs can pile up if you are not careful. Thankfully, these costs can be filed as tax write-offs for 1099 employees. This is especially true for those already paying for their primary residences, whether it is a mortgage or rent costs.

Leaving no stone unturned

Keeping track of all these expenses and receipts can be a major headache. Despite this, it is ultimately worth it considering just how much you can save on tax deductions. Some financial apps and accountants can help you navigate through the most difficult parts of the process. Provided that you report your income and expenses accurately, meticulously document relevant transactions and brush up on your area’s tax laws for travel nurses, you will dramatically maximize your earning potential.

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5 incredible winter destinations for travel nurses

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

5 incredible winter destinations for travel nurses

Winter is an exciting time for travel nurses. At this time of year, each area grows rich with seasonal recreational activities, picturesque scenic views, and climates of all kinds. Whether you prefer warmer climates or you live for a White Christmas, there is something for everyone. The variety is such that it may be hard to choose where you will sign your next travel nurse contract. To help you choose the right place for you, this article will go over the best travel nurse winter destinations.

Arizona

The Grand Canyon state is a sight to behold, this time of year. Though notorious for its scorching temperatures, Arizona temperatures reach around 55°F in the wintertime. Between the striking red rock formations of Sedona, the mountainous cacti-laden tracks of Saguaro National Park, and the stunning view of the winter-dusted Grand Canyon, at this time of year, travel nurses will find no shortage of challenging scenic biking trails. If you do not care for long walks along rugged trails, then simply book yourself in some of the best resort spas in the country. There are even cold weather areas where you can partake in classic winter activities like skiing. However, there is no doubt that Arizona is the perfect place for an active nurse who prefers the weather on the warmer side. There is also no shortage of world-class facilities, primarily in the city of Phoenix. Mayo Clinic stands out as the top-ranked facility in the state, while two and three can also be found in Phoenix.

New York

New York is the perfect place for HCPs who live for a White Christmas. Across the entire state, temperatures drop as low as 7°F to 40°F, depending on where you go. Most people are well aware of the bright lights and stunning sights of places like Manhattan and Broadway. There are plenty of worthwhile sites outside the Big Apple, however. Sports fans may want to drop by Cooperstown to visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame. The Adirondacks, Catskills, and Chautauqua County are also fabulous winter getaway destinations. Enjoy seasonal sports like skiing, ice skating, and snowboarding, cozy bed and breakfast inns, and stunning winter mountainside views. NYC also provides a host of unique professional opportunities, as its top 5 facilities are nationally ranked in numerous categories. While you are working, gain experience and knowledge with some of the brightest minds and highest-end facilities in the country.

Colorado

CO’s mile-high altitude and mountainous terrain provide the perfect backdrop for classic winter activities. Despite the winter weather, daily high temperatures during this season regularly hover below 53°F. It drops below -7°F at night, but the winter Colorado experience in the day is a wonderful mix of sunny skies and snow-capped peaks. This proves to be the perfect weather for activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Between Viceroy Snowmass, Sonnelap Hotel, and Park Hyatt Beaver Creek, you will not be at a loss for world-class winter resorts. For nurses who want to immerse themselves in the culture, Denver alone is rich with fascinating exhibits hosted in sites like the Denver Art Museum and History Colorado Center, a rich local brewery scene, and a passionate sports culture that is raucous at this time of year. Colorado is not lacking in world-class facilities, either. In particular, UC Health University of Colorado Hospital ranks number one in the state and is nationally ranked in at least 5 specialties and 16 procedures/conditions, according to USNews.

Florida

If winter is not for you, then you may want to consider taking your nursing talents to South Beach. Through the winter season, Florida’s temperatures hover more at the 70°F and 80°F range. If you want summer fun at Christmas time, it does not get better than this. The state is rich with gorgeous beaches where you can swim, soak and tan to your heart’s content. Amusement parks like Disneyland are open all year round, but there is rarely a better time to go enjoy a depth-defying ride through Space Mountain. If you want to be more deliberate about your time, take a trip down the diverse pieces of the Lowe Museum or the diverse aquatic wildlife found at Key West Aquarium. Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville currently ranks as the best in the state, as it is nationally ranked in 7 different specialties.

Texas

Down south, Texas is rich with several personal and professional opportunities. Like Florida, it is perfect for the warm-weather nurse who can do without the winter activities. Do note, however, that while daily high temperatures range around 59°F, it is common for the temperature to drop below freezing temperatures at night. As long as you are prepared for that, Lone Star State has much to offer you. Between its rich music and nightlife scene, Austin is the perfect getaway for the modern working adult. Both the San Antonio River Walk and Corpus Christi Beach come alive on Christmas nights, with bright and intricate decorations that illuminate their paths. For a different experience, Texas Hill Country offers the orange and auburn shades of fall well into the winter season. This but scratches the surface as to what you can do in Texas, at this time of year. Working in Texas is also a lucrative experience, as it is one of the bigger markets for travel nurses. Depending on your contract, you may earn up to $4,364 per week if you take the right shifts.

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Alarm Fatigue is Way Too Real (and Scary) For Nurses

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

Alarm Fatigue is Way Too Real (and Scary) For Nurses

As an HCP, it is impossible to escape alarms. They follow you everywhere you go, especially when you are working in the intensive care unit (ICU). In theory, they notify you about patient condition changes and equipment failures immediately, so that medical personnel can tend to them. The reality is often more complicated than that, however. Research has found that 85 to 99% of all medical alarms are false or “clinically insignificant.”  That may not seem significant, but the noise eventually piles up. Alarm fatigue in nursing is a major problem. If you do not think it is, you are sorely mistaken. 

Nurses are still expected to stay alert throughout the whole shift, and respond immediately to these calls. The advancement of medical technology has also led to alarms being attached to more and more medical devices. To put things into perspective, hospitals will generate 150 to 400 alarms per patient. Just 40 years ago, this number was as low as 6. With all this in mind, it is no surprise that 35% percent of a nurse’s working time is spent answering these largely false alarms.

Nursing is already a very demanding profession. Staying on high alert for mostly false alarms piles on a significant amount of stress, on top of everything else. Nurses find themselves frantically scrambling between different large alarm devices, while they tend to their base duties for the day. This often causes nurse alarm fatigue, where nurses grow increasingly numb to alarms, thanks to the huge sensory overload. Either their responses are delayed or they stop answering them altogether. If left unchecked, alarm fatigue can directly lead to patient deaths. Tired nurses could leave serious patient alarms unanswered because they have grown desensitized by all the false positives. That is why alarm fatigue for nurses is a terrifying condition, for every party involved. 

What can be done to answer hospital alarm fatigue successfully? There are a number of avenues available to hospitals willing to invest in their patient safety. Reducing the number of false alarms should be the top priority of any organization. More thorough staff education, proper equipment upkeep, and examining what causes false alarms are just a couple examples of the kind of measures that hospitals must resort to. Though effective, these short term solutions can be rendered moot without longer term answers. Facilities owe it to their nurses to create a culture of continuous improvement and patient safety, as well as the right safeguard policies in place. Systemic and cultural changes will be the most effective way to combat this issue in the future. Until then, nurses and alarm fatigue will continue to be connected. 

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How to Renew Your RN license by State

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

How to Renew Your RN license by State

To keep their licenses active, nurses are typically required to renew them once in a while. Because states have their own nursing laws, there is no set of universal renewal guidelines. The requirements you will be asked to submit will depend entirely on the state you live or work in. To make life easier for you, we have compiled a list of RN license renewal requirements by state, as of 2022. Keep in mind that these are always subject to change.For more detailed information, refer to the official State Board of Nursing websites linked in the states below. 

Alabama: 24 Continuing Education (CE) contact hours from a state-approved provider. This can include 12 hours of independent study through your Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Must be fulfilled every two years, on even years. The only exception is if you applied between August 31 and December 31. 

Alaska: Nurses must complete two of the following: 320 hours of nursing employment, 60 hours of unpaid professional nursing or 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Must be fulfilled every November 30th, in even years only. 

Arizona: Nurses must complete one of the following: 960 hours of nursing practice in the last 5 years, completion of a board-accredited refresher course, graduation from a nursing program in the last 5 years or obtaining an advanced practice nursing degree over the last 5 years. Requirements must be fulfilled every 4 years. 

Arkansas: Nurses must complete one of the following: 15 contact hours from accredited activities with an emphasis on practice, one college credit hour in nursing with at least a grade of C or better, or a nationally-recognized certification/recertification. This must be fulfilled every two years. If you are born in an odd-numbered year, you renew in even years and vice-versa. 

California: To renew an RN license in California, you must fulfill 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. If you are unsure of your license’s status, the state offers online RN license verification for CA nurses. RN license verification in California can be found here. 

RN license renewal in California must be fulfilled every two years on your birthday.

Colorado: Renew every two years by September 30. There are no additional requirements. 

Connecticut: Renew every year, on the first day of a nurse’s birth month. There are no additional requirements.

District of Columbia: Every two years, RNs must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. 3 hours are devoted to HIV/Aids while 2 will concern cultural sensitivity training for handling patients who identify as LGBTQ+. 

Delaware: You must fulfill one of the following requirements for renewal: 1,000 practice hours over the last 5 years, 400 practice hours over 2 years, or a refresher course within the past 2 years AND 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider (which includes 3 on substance abuse.) Nurses have to meet these requirements every two years in odd-numbered years. Depending on when they got their certification, they must submit them on either February 28, September 30 or May 31. 

Florida: 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, which includes 2 hours on Florida’s nursing laws and 2 hours on human trafficking. RN license renewal in Florida is fulfilled every two years. This is waived for the first two years of first-time licensees who passed the exam. 

Georgia: RNs must finish 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Georgia’s other renewal requirements are extensive and listed on the official website. Depending on when you got certified, you will have to renew your license in every even or odd numbered year. No matter what, you have to meet your requirements every two years. 

Hawaii: Nurses must fulfill one of the following: 

  • National certification/recertification for nursing
  • 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider
  • At least two semester credits of post-licensure lessons related to nursing practice. Must come from an accredited school of nursing. 
  • 120 hours working as a preceptor for one student or employee moving to a new clinical practice area, in an organized preceptorship program. 
  • Completing a state-approved refresher course.
  • Completing a state-approved nurse residency program. 
  • Completing a nursing research project as a principal or co-principal investigator. This should either be an evidence-based undertaking pre approved by the State Board of Nursing or an institutional review board project. 
  • Writing or co-writing a peer-reviewed published nursing writing. This can be a book, article or book chapter. 
  • Five contact hours of developing and carrying out nursing education presentations. To count as continuing education, this must be for an organized institution. Other learning activities can be approved, provided they are approved by the State Board of Nursing.

Regardless of what you choose, your requirements must be fulfilled every June 30th in odd years. 

Idaho: Nurses are expected to complete the following:

  • Certification for your current nursing specialization or at least 100 hours of practice/simulated practice. 
  • Either acknowledgement as a contributor to a published article connected to nursing, or participating in related professional activities. 
  • Either 15 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, at least 1 semester credit of post-licensure education, teaching/developing nursing-related instructional courses, or participation/presentation of a conference/seminar/workshop.

These requirements must be submitted every two years on August 31. 

Illinois: 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Must be fulfilled every even year on May 21. Interestingly, fees for rn license renewal have been reduced to $0. 

Indiana: Renew every two years on odd years, on October 31. There are no additional requirements for RN license renewal in Indiana.

Iowa: Nurses must complete 36 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, 2 of which are devoted to child abuse training. RNs licensed for less than 3 years only need to complete 24 contact hours. Requirements must be completed every 3 years. 

Kansas: Nurses must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years. RNs can do as much independent study as they please, to meet the CE quota.

Kentucky: Nurses must complete one of the following, every year (this requirement is waived for your first renewal:) 

  • National certification/recertification
  • Completing a research project as principal/co-principal investigator or director.
  • 14 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider
  • 120 preceptor hours
  • Carrying out a professional-level presentation on nurse education 
  • Publishing an article related to nursing
  • 7 contact hours and a satisfactory employment evaluation
  • (One Time Only) 3 CE contact hours on domestic violence and 2 hours of AIDS/HIV classes from a state-approved provider. 

RNs must renew their license every year, on October 31. 

Louisiana: Full time nurses must fulfill 5 CEUs from a state-approved provider, part-time nurses need to finish 10 while inactive nurses have to do 15. RNs have to renew every year, on a date between October 31 and January 31. 

Maine: Renew every two years on your birthday. There are no additional requirements.

Maryland: Every two years, RNs have to complete one of the following:

  • A refresher course approved by the State Board of Nursing within the last 5 years
  • 1000 practice-related hours within the last 5 years 
  • 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider within the last 2 years. 

Massachusetts: 15 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Must be fulfilled every two years, on even years and on the nurse’s birthday. RN license renewal in Massachusetts is waived for the first two years of first-time licensees who passed the exam. 

Michigan: Nurses must complete 25 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years.

Minnesota: Nurses must complete 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years.

Mississippi: Nurses must complete 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every even year, between October 1 and December 31.

Missouri:  Renew every two years, before March 30 on even years. There are no additional requirements

Montana: Nurses must complete 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years, before December 31 in even years

Nebraska: Renewal requirements are waived in your first two years as a licensed RN. Otherwise, you must fulfill one of the following: 

  • 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider within the last two years and 500 combined practice hours across the last five years.  
  • Current/new certification for your nursing specialization
  • Completing a refresher course approved by the State Board of Nursing over the last five years
  • Graduated two to five years ago and 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider.
  • Portfolio outlining professional goals and proof of professional activity completed to meet said goals. 

Requirements must be submitted for renewal on October 31, in odd years. 

Nevada: Nurses must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, which includes a 2 hour cultural competency course. RNs must also finish a one time 4 hour bioterrorism class. Requirements must be met every two years. 

New Hampshire: Nurses must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, every year. 

New Jersey: 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. RNs will also be asked to take a 1 hour course on tissue organ donation. RN license renewal in NJ must be fulfilled every two years. 

New Mexico: Nurses must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, every two years.

New York: RNs have to complete 2 CEUs on child abuse recognition and 3 CEUs on infection control. While the latter has to be fulfilled every 4 years, the license renewal period is every three years. 

North Carolina: Nurses must submit one of the following: 

  • 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider
  • Completing a refresher course approved by the State Board of Nursing
  • At least two semester hours of post-licensure lessons related to nursing practice OR
  • 15 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, along with one of the following
    • Writing or co-writing a peer-reviewed published nursing writing. This can be a book, article or book chapter
    • Completing a research project as principal/co-principal investigator or director. Must include statement of problem, objectives, a summary of findings, completion date and methods 
    • 640 hours of nursing practice over the last two years
    • Five contact hours of developing and carrying out nursing education presentations. Syllabus, program brochure, goals, time/place of presentation and number of attendants must be included. 

Requirements must be submitted every two years. 

North Dakota: Nurses must complete 12 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider and 400 practice hours. Additional requirements can be found on the site. The renewal period is every year. 

Ohio: 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every two years. For RN license renewal in Ohio, 1 contact hour must be dedicated to Ohio nursing law. 

Oklahoma: Every two years, nurses can complete one of two requirements:

  • 520 annual employed practice hours
  • Current certification in nursing speciality
  • Completion of a board-approved refresher course
  • 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, every two years
  • 6 credits of academic coursework at your current licensure level or higher

Oregon: Nurses must complete a one time 7 CE contact hour course on pain management. One of these hours must be the Oregon Pain Management Commission module. New renewals will require 2 CE contact hours on cultural competence. Your regular renewal requirements last two years and can be one of the following:

  • 400 practice hours
  • 20 CE contact hours if you accrued less than 600 practice hours in the past 3 years.
  • 30 CE contact hours if you accrued less than 800 practice hours in the past 4 years.
  • Practice re-entry if you accrued less than 960 practice hours in the past 4 years.

Pennsylvania: 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. For RN license renewal in PA, 3 contact hours must be spent on a DPW-approved course on child abuse recognition and reporting requirements. Must be fulfilled every two years in April or October. 

Rhode Island: 10 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. 3 contact hours must be spent on substance abuse education. Must be fulfilled every two years.

South Carolina: Every two years, nurses must fulfill must fulfill one of the following:

  • Number of practice hours + certification of competency from employer.
  • Nationally-recognized certification/recertification.
  • 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider.
  • Finishing a nursing-related academic program

South Dakota: Every two years, nurses must fulfill must fulfill one of the following:

  • 140 practice hours over a 12 month period, within the last 6 years.
  • 480 total practice hours over the last 6 years
  • Completion of a board-accredited refresher course

Tennessee: RN license renewal in TN requires submission of proof of practice every two years. This must be accomplished on the final day of a nurse’s birth month.

Texas: 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Must be fulfilled every two years. Additionally, RN license renewal in Texas includes a one time, 2 contact hour course on bioterrorism.

Utah: Nurses must complete one of the following:

  • 400 practice hours or 15 CE contact hours
  • 200 practice hours or 30 CE contact hours. 

. Requirements must be fulfilled every two years. 

Vermont: Every two years, nurses must complete one of the following:

  • Completion of re-entry program within the last 5 years 
  • 400 practice hours accrued within the last 2 years
  • 960 practice hours accrued within the last 5 years

Virginia: Every two years, nurses must complete one of the following:

  • 640 nursing practice hours and 15 CE contact hours of workshops, seminars, courses relevant to nursing practice and conferences.
  • 30 CE contact hours of workshops, seminars, courses relevant to nursing practice and conferences.
  • Completion of a board-accredited refresher course
  • Teaching 30 contact hours of nursing-related CE lessons
  • Finishing an evidence-based practice project or research study related to nursing. 
  • Certification for your nursing specialization from a nationally-recognized organization.
  • Teaching a minimum of 3 semester hours of speciality certification or college credit. 
  • At least 3 credit hours of post-licensure lessons related to nursing practice
  • Writing or co-writing a published piece within the renewal period. 

Washington: Every 3 years, nurses must complete 45 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider and 531 nursing practice hours.

West Virginia: Every year on October 31, nurses must complete 12CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Two hours will be spent on mental health while one will be devoted to drug diversion training and best practices for prescribing controlled substances.  

Wisconsin: On the last day of February in even years, nurses have to apply for renewal. There are no additional requirements. 

Wyoming: Every two years, RNs have to submit one of the following requirements: 

  • 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider completed within the last 2 years
  • 500 practice hours accrued within the last 2 years
  • 1,600 practice hours accrued within the last 5 years
  • Completion of a reentry program or a refresher course approved by the State Board of Nursing within the last 5 years. 
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How to Renew Your LPN License by State

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

How to Renew Your LPN License by State

Licensed Practice Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) license renewal differs from state to state. Whether you are taking your LVN certification online or in-person, and no matter where you live, you want to stay on top of your licensing requirements whenever you can. That is why we have gathered a list of LVN license renewal requirements by state as of 2022. Keep in mind that these are always subject to change. For more detailed information, refer to the official State Board of Nursing websites linked in the states below. 

Alabama: 24 Continuing Education (CE) contact hours from a state-approved provider. This can include 12 hours of independent study through your Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Must be fulfilled every two years. 

Alaska: Nurses must complete two of the following: 320 hours of nursing employment, 60 hours of unpaid professional nursing or 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Must be fulfilled every November 30th, in even years only. 

Arizona: Nurses must complete one of the following: 960 hours of nursing practice in the last 5 years, completion of a board-accredited refresher course, graduation from a nursing program in the last 5 years or obtaining an advanced practice nursing degree over the last 5 years. Requirements must be fulfilled every 4 years. 

Arkansas: Every two years, nurses must complete one of the following: 

  • 15 contact hours from accredited activities with an emphasis on practice
  • Completion of a nursing-related academic course
  • Nationally-recognized certification/recertification

California: 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. LVN license renewal in California must be fulfilled every two years.

Colorado: Renew every two years. There are no additional requirements. 

Connecticut: Renew every year. There are no additional requirements.

Delaware: Every two years, LVNs must complete 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider.

District of Columbia: Every two years, nurses can complete one of the following: 

  • Completion of graduate or undergraduate courses relevant to nursing practice.
  • 15 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider
  • Developing or carrying out CE courses or an educational course approved by the State Board of Nursing or a Board-affiliated body. 
  • Writing or co-writing a peer-reviewed published nursing writing. This can be a book, article, periodical or book chapter.

Florida: Every two years, LVNs have to finish 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, which includes 2 hours on prevention of medical errors. Applicants must complete a one time, 1 hour AIDS/HIV course before their first renewal and a 2 contact hour domestic violence lesson every third renewal. At least 1 contact hour must be finished, each month of the renewal period.  

Georgia:  Every two years, LVNs must finish 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Georgia’s other renewal requirements are listed on the official website.

Hawaii:  Every two years, nurses must fulfill  one of the following: 

  • Completing a state-approved refresher course.
  • 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider
  • At least two semester credits of post-licensure lessons related to nursing practice. Must come from an accredited school of nursing. 

Idaho: Every two years, nurses must fulfill two of the following:

  • Certification for your current nursing specialization or at least 100 hours of practice/simulated practice. 
  • Either acknowledgement as a contributor to a published article connected to nursing, or participating in related professional activities. 
  • Either 15 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, at least 1 semester credit of post-licensure education, teaching/developing nursing-related instructional courses, or participation/presentation of a conference/seminar/workshop.

These requirements must be submitted every two years. 

Illinois: Every two years, LVNs must complete 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. 1 contact hour should cover sexual harassment and how to handle it as a nurse. 

Indiana: Renew every two years. There are no additional requirements

Iowa: Nurses must complete 36 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, 2 of which are devoted to child abuse training. LVNs licensed for less than 3 years only need to complete 24 contact hours. Requirements must be completed every 3 years. 

Kansas: Nurses must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years. LVNs can do as much independent study as they please, to meet the CE quota. 

Kentucky: Nurses must complete 14 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, within two years. The Kentucky Board of Nursing’s official site also lists alternative requirements. 

Louisiana: Full time nurses must fulfill 5 CEUs from a state-approved provider, part-time nurses need to finish 10 while inactive nurses have to do 15. LPN license renewal in Louisiana takes place every year. 

Maine: Renew every two years on your birthday. There are no additional requirements.

Maryland: Every two years, LPNs have to complete one of the following:

  • A refresher course approved by the State Board of Nursing within the last 5 years
  • 1000 practice-related hours within the last 5 years 
  • 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider within the last 2 years. 

Massachusetts: 15 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Must be fulfilled every two years, on odd years and on the nurse’s birthday. 

Michigan: Nurses must complete 25 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years.

Minnesota: Nurses must complete 12 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years to fulfill LVN license renewal requirements.

Mississippi: Nurses must complete 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years every odd year, between October 1 and December 31.

Missouri:  Renew every two years, before March 30 on even years. There are no additional requirements

Montana: Nurses must complete 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every 2 years, before December 31 in even years

Nebraska: Renewal requirements are waived in your first two years as a licensed LPN. Otherwise, you must fulfill one of the following: 

  • 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider within the last two years and 500 combined practice hours across the last five years.  
  • Current/new certification for your nursing specialization
  • Completing a refresher course approved by the State Board of Nursing over the last five years
  • Graduated two to five years ago and 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider.
  • Portfolio outlining professional goals and proof of professional activity completed to meet said goals. 

Requirements must be submitted for renewal on October 31, in odd years. 

Nevada: Nurses must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, which includes a 2 hour cultural competency course. LPNs must also finish a one time 4 hour bioterrorism class. Requirements must be met every two years. 

New Hampshire: Nurses must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, every year. 

New Jersey: 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. You will also be asked to take a 1 hour course on tissue organ donation. LPN license renewal in NJ must be fulfilled every two years. 

New Mexico: LPNs must complete 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, every two years.

New York: RNs have to complete 3 CE contact hours from an accredited provider. LPN license renewal in NY must be accomplished every 4 years. 

North Carolina: Nurses must submit one of the following: 

  • 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider
  • Completing a refresher course approved by the State Board of Nursing
  • At least 2 credit hours of post-licensure lessons related to nursing practice
  • 15 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, along with one of the following
    • Writing or co-writing a peer-reviewed published nursing writing. This can be a book, article or book chapter
    • Completing a research project as principal/co-principal investigator or director. Must include statement of problem, objectives, a summary of findings, completion date and methods 
    • 5 contact hours of developing and carrying out nursing education presentations. Syllabus, program brochure, goals, time/place of presentation and number of attendants must be included.
    • 640 hours of nursing practice over the last two years

Requirements must be submitted every two years. 

North Dakota: Nurses must complete 12 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Additional requirements can be found on the site. The renewal period is every year. 

Ohio: 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider every two years. For LPN license renewal in Ohio, 1 contact hour must be dedicated to Ohio nursing law. 

Oklahoma: Every two years, nurses can complete one of two requirements:

  • 520 annual employed practice hours
  • Current certification in nursing speciality
  • Completion of a board-approved refresher course
  • 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider, every two years
  • 6 credits of academic coursework at your current licensure level or higher

Oregon: Nurses must complete a one time 7 CE contact hour course on pain management. One of these hours must be the Oregon Pain Management Commission module. New renewals will require 2 CE contact hours on cultural competence. Your regular renewal requirements last two years and can be one of the following:

  • 400 practice hours
  • 20 CE contact hours if you accrued less than 600 practice hours in the past 3 years.
  • 30 CE contact hours if you accrued less than 800 practice hours in the past 4 years.
  • Practice re-entry if you accrued less than 960 practice hours in the past 4 years.

Pennsylvania: For LPN license renewal in PA, 2 contact hours must be spent on a DPW-approved course on child abuse recognition and reporting requirements on every renewal.

Rhode Island: 10 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. 3 contact hours must be spent on substance abuse education. Must be fulfilled every two years.

South Carolina: Every two years, nurses must fulfill must fulfill one of the following:

  • Number of practice hours + certification of competency from employer.
  • Nationally-recognized certification/recertification.
  • 30 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider.
  • Finishing a nursing-related academic program

South Dakota: Every two years, nurses must fulfill must fulfill one of the following:

  • 140 practice hours over a 12 month period, within the last 6 years.
  • 480 total practice hours over the last 6 years
  • Completion of a board-accredited refresher course

Tennessee: LPN renewal requires submission of proof of practice every two years.

Texas: To maintain your LVN license in Texas, you must fulfill 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider. Must be fulfilled every two years. Additionally, LVN license renewal in Texas includes a one time, 2 contact hour course on bioterrorism.

Utah: Nurses must complete one of the following: 

  • 400 practice hours or 15 CE contact hours
  • 200 practice hours and 30 CE contact hours. 

Requirements must be fulfilled every two years. 

Vermont: Every two years, nurses must complete one of the following:

  • Completion of re-entry program within the last 5 years 
  • 400 practice hours accrued within the last 2 years
  • 960 practice hours accrued within the last 5 years

Virginia: Every two years, nurses must complete one of the following:

  • 640 nursing practice hours and 15 CE contact hours of workshops, seminars, courses relevant to nursing practice and conferences.
  • 30 CE contact hours of workshops, seminars, courses relevant to nursing practice and conferences.
  • Completion of a board-accredited refresher course
  • Teaching 30 contact hours of nursing-related CE lessons
  • Finishing an evidence-based practice project or research study related to nursing. 
  • Certification for your nursing specialization from a nationally-recognized organization.
  • Teaching a minimum of 3 semester hours of speciality certification or college credit. 
  • At least 3 credit hours of post-licensure lessons related to nursing practice
  • Writing or co-writing a published piece within the renewal period. 

Washington: Every 3 years, nurses must complete 45 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider and 531 nursing practice hours.

West Virginia: Every even year, nurses must complete 24 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider and 400 LPN practice hours. There is also a one time, 2 CE Contact hour course that will cover end-of-life care. 

Wisconsin: Every two years, LVNs must reply for LVN license renewal. There are no additional requirements. 

Wyoming: Every two years, LVNs have to submit one of the following requirements: 

  • 20 CE contact hours from a state-approved provider completed within the last 2 years
  • 500 practice hours accrued within the last 2 years
  • 1,600 practice hours accrued within the last 5 years
  • Completion of a reentry program or a refresher course approved by the State Board of Nursing within the last 5 years.
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Nursing and Healthcare Trends for 2023

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

Nursing and Healthcare Trends for 2023

The healthcare industry is continuously shifting, as we speak. The pandemic had already accelerated the adoption of cutting-edge healthcare technologies, which was already well underway. Nurse-patient dynamics and hospital operations are not what they were even three years ago. Nevertheless, nurses owe it to themselves to keep track of all the changing trends and shifts in the market. HCPs have to stay updated and on-their-toes if they want to stay in this line of work. Lucky for you, this article is here to break down a couple of the most important US healthcare trends heading into 2023. 

Telehealth will continue to surge

At the height of pandemic restrictions, it was a natural solution for patients who needed health consultation but could not go outside. Telehealth allows patients to get examinations, diagnosis results or prescriptions through video chat, text or email. Even with pandemic restrictions dying down, telehealth will continue to be one of the major trends in the healthcare industry. Not only is the telehealth industry valued at around 83.5 billion USD, it also has a 24% projected compound annual growth rate between 2020 and 2030. Autoimmune, incapacitated, or otherwise busy patients will ensure that demand remains high in the coming years.

Hospitals will scramble to retain staff 

It is estimated that hospitals will need 200,000 new nurses every year until 2030. Clearly, the current nursing shortage will not go away anytime soon. Burnout and overwork are driving nurses away by the thousands, as they leave the industry to seek work in less stressful environments. In response, initiatives like mental health seminars will be among the biggest US healthcare trends in 2023. The discussion surrounding burnout has placed nursing mental health into the forefront, and many facilities are taking note. With nursing leaders proposing “creative and innovative solutions” to current issues, HCPs will want to examine how hospitals go about improving their staff retention. 

Per diem nursing is here to stay

Per diem nursing solutions such as travel nurse agencies are one of the biggest current healthcare trends, as a response to the nursing shortage. It allowed nurses to scale their operations and bring in as many qualified HCPs as possible, for the current level of demand. Nurses also benefit from the ability to choose shifts at their own discretion, which gives them career flexibility and diverse experiences that are not afforded in full time slots. If they use VitaWerks, they can even maximize their earning potential even further with AI-based matchmaking that instantly pairs them with the highest-paying facilities in their area .With the way the market stands now, it is clear that per diem nursing is here to stay. Market evaluations project that the per diem nursing industry will reach 11.1 billion USD by 2028. 

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How to CNA License Transfer from State to State

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

How to CNA License Transfer from State to State

Traveling nursing is the best way for Certified Nursing Assistants to find lucrative, high-paying temporary gigs. It also lets them build a varied work portfolio while taking in sights and experiences unique to the states they temporarily reside in. All this is true and a huge benefit, but licensing can be an issue. Your CNA practice license is specific to the state you acquired it in. You may need to jump a few hoops in order to transfer your license and practice cross-state. If your heart is set on travel CNA nursing, this guide will teach you all you need to know about CNA license transfer.

Misconceptions about the NLC and “multi-state CNA licenses”

You may have heard about the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC). This is a cross-state agreement that allows nurses to practice across different states, with minimum hassle or paperwork. You may be asking yourself: Does your CNA license transfer between states, under this legislation? Sadly, the NLC only applies to Registered Nurses (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurses(LPN)/Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN). Other HCPs, like Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) must hold licenses in individual states.

 If you wanted to know how to get a multi state cna license, you are asking yourself the wrong question. Luckily, obtaining cross-state licensure does not necessarily mean starting from scratch. 

Reciprocity and you

If your home state has a reciprocity agreement with your target work state, life will be far easier for you. For the uninitiated, nurse reciprocity between states allows nurses to transfer their licenses without having to start from scratch. More often than not, you will simply be asked to fill in some paperwork and pay a fine after you apply. It is that simple. Reciprocity requirements will vary depending on the state, but you typically want to have active CNA certification and a clean reputation with your home state (which usually means a clean criminal record, among other things.) 

Before anything else, you will want to contact your State Board of Nursing to ask whether or not they have nurse license reciprocity with your target state. If the answer is yes, you may ask them for a reciprocity form that you will fill out and fulfill as soon as possible. Most states will provide you with a reciprocity form that will contain every task and requirement you will need to complete, in order to transfer your licensure. For example: CNA license transfer to California will require you to submit the following: 

  • CNA Reciprocity Application
  • Fingerprints obtained from a Live Scan Agency and a properly completed Request for Live Scan Service (BCIA8016) form
  • Copy of your out-of-state CNA license
  • Proof of paid nursing or nursing-related work over the last two years.
  • Verification of Current Nurse Assistant Certification (CDPH 931) 

Even if they do not have a reciprocity form, you can rely on your State Board of Nursing to fill you in on what you need to do, and who you need to talk to to transfer your license.

What if there is no reciprocity? 

Not every state is a nurse reciprocity state. If this is the case, then you have no choice but you have to start from the beginning of the certification process. You have to take their exams, go through the mandated classes and fulfill the state’s various unique requirements. 

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5 Common Career Changes for Nurses

Pretty smiling lady doctor with stethoscope holding laptop computer and looking aside isolated
  • Hello • February 8, 2023

5 Common Career Changes for Nurses

By nature, nursing is a stressful and demanding line of work. In recent times, the long hours and immense workloads have led to widespread burnout across the industry.

Luckily, your options are not constrained in the slightest. A background in nursing work is a desirable trait in several different industries. 

If you are second-guessing your future in clinical work or you simply want a change in scenery, you have come to the right place. This article will go over a handful of good jobs for ex-nurses. 

Medical Writer

Your nursing knowledge will be highly sought after, in content marketing spaces. Medical content writers are tasked with writing informed and well-researched healthcare pieces of varying types. This makes it a great career change option for nurses. 

From research papers to clinical trial reports, to medical equipment manuals and more, you will be dealing with various assignments and duties. With the BLS projecting a 6% growth rate in the technical writing space in 2021-31, and a median salary of $78,060, the future of medical content writing is bright.

Nurse Educator

As a nurse educator, you will be in charge of assisting HCPs with their Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and developing/updating nurse training programs for facilities. Outside of hospitals, you can even find work in educational institutions, nursing facilities, laboratory settings and more. 

You will need a bachelor’s degree in health education or nursing and a valid RN license at the bare minimum. Depending on where you apply, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) may increase your hiring ability.

In the wake of the ongoing nursing shortages, facilities are looking to fill vacancies as quickly as possible. Since training and onboarding is a vital part of that process, nurse educators are expected to surge in demand over the coming years. 

The BLS currently estimates a median annual salary of $79,640 and a staggering 22% growth rate from 2021-31. This is undoubtedly one of the most promising new nursing careers. 

Clinical Informatics Specialist

Hospitals handle all kinds of sensitive, classified data regularly. As a Clinical Informatics Specialist (CIS), you will be in charge of managing these digital databases, maintaining their security and integrity, and proposing and implementing plans to improve the pre-existing data framework.

CIS nurses are also in charge of creating user-friendly interfaces and teaching HCPs how to navigate them, to access the needed information. At the bare minimum, you will need a couple of years of nursing experience and a background in IT. 

As the healthcare world continues to digitize, CIS will remain hotly demanded. The BLS predicts that the profession will grow up to 7% over the next decade, while Payscale estimates a median salary of $78,234. 

Director of Care Management 

Understandably, several hospital administrators have a base of nursing experience. As Director of Care Management, you are tasked with ensuring that your hospital’s care meets a certain standard of quality. This involved developing hospital policies and staff procedures while considering feedback on all levels. 

On paper, you need a bachelor’s degree at the bare minimum. Master’s degrees are also common, and undoubtedly provide an advantage to your application. 5 years of clinical or administrative experience in hospital settings is highly recommended.

With regards to median salary, directors top the list at $101,340 annually. The profession is also set to grow by 28%, from 2021-31. 

Social Worker

Social workers are a perfect fit for nurses looking to “make a difference” with their labor. You will be in charge of providing care and much-needed guidance to the underprivileged and marginalized. This includes (but is not limited to) low-income families, incarcerated individuals, and people afflicted with crippling disabilities. 

Though regular social workers just need a bachelor’s degree, clinical social workers need at least a master’s. Compared to other professions, the median annual salary sits at a modest $50,390, with a 9% projected employment growth rate. If this is a concern, keep in mind that a background in social work can serve as an avenue to higher-paying positions in the future. 

Go out There! 

This just scratches the surface of career change options for nurses. For HCPs looking for different scenery, the options are vast and numerous.

It may seem daunting initially but fret not. With enough time, patience and dedication, you will find a new nursing career that suits you best. 

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How to Care For your Body as a Busy Nurse

  • Hello • February 8, 2023

How to Care For your Body as a Busy Nurse

The grind of a typical nursing shift leaves little time for self-care. It may not seem like much, but the stress of eating, inactivity and bad nurse home health adds up. Unhealthy nurses get tired more quickly and are less equipped to handle the rigours of a shift. 

In this guide, we will go over how nurses can stay fit in spite of their busy schedules. With some commitment, you can incorporate these healthy habits into even the most packed schedules.

 Light Exercise

Exercise helps you stay in shape and boosts your body’s production of feel-good hormones like serotonin and endorphins. Unfortunately, it is pretty hard to incorporate a rigorous, 

3-hour routine into a nurse’s life.

Taking 30-minute walks before or after work will suffice. At home, yoga is perfect for low-intensity cardio that produces fruitful results over time. Ultimately, how hard you work out is not as important as your daily commitment.

 Get Rest When you Can

 Well-rested nurses are healthier, less likely to stay sick and more productive. Between lengthy shifts, getting the rest you need is easier said than done.

When you are at home, getting the prerequisite 8 hours of sleep is crucial for nurse health care. At work,  take short 20 to 30- minute naps in your break time, whenever you can. If you work the night shift, you want to sleep at least 3 to 4 hours during the day in preparation.

 Eat Healthy While working Long Nursing Shifts. 

Munch on Healthy Snacks

When you feel light hunger pangs, you may be tempted to munch on chips or candies somewhere off in the corner. For nurse healthcare, consider replacing these unhealthy snacks with healthier alternatives.

 Snacks high in protein, carbohydrates and other nutrients will give you the energy needed to make it through the day. These include, but are not limited to:

  •  Mixed nuts
  • Chicken salad
  • Hummus
  • Eggs
  • String chees
  • Greek yogurt
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