Significant nursing shortages continue to pose a challenge within the health care industry, as the United States was expected to have a deficit of around 295,800 nurses by the end of 2025.

Nurses work in many different facilities and can focus on an array of specialties. Nurses may be categorized by their levels of education. Each level has a different scope of practice and responsibility. Those considering nursing as a career, or patients preparing to see a nursing provider for care, can explore these types of nurses.

Licensed practical nurse (LPN): LPNs are health care professionals responsible for basic patient care and comfort. They typically are a patient’s primary point of contact and relay information to the rest of the care team. One can think of LPNs as entry-level nurses, although their responsibilities are no less important than other medical professionals’.

LPNs typically work under others’ direct supervision and assist patients with eating, dressing and bathing. LPNs also take vital signs and administer medications. The American Nursing Association says becoming an LPN or a licensed vocational nurse requires a high school diploma or GED and a vocational training course, and a passing grade on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses is necessary.

Registered nurse (RN): RNs require a higher level of education than LPNs and they can provide more complex and comprehensive care for patients. RNs often handle a wider range of patient services and take on more responsibilities than LPNs. The ANA says two college degree paths available to aspiring RNs are an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN requires a greater financial commitment and a four-year undergraduate program takes time to complete. Many employers zero in on candidates with a BSN.

Nurses who have advanced degrees are called Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. They have specialized training beyond that of a typical registered nurse and have broader scopes of practice. They may work with greater autonomy in certain specialties.

Certified nurse practitioner (CNP):  A CNP is a health partner of choice for many people. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners¨ says CNPs are clinicians that blend clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions with an emphasis on disease prevention and health management. Advanced education, like a master’s or doctoral degree, is required to become a CNP. He or she is able to prescribe medications, order diagnostic tests and manage chronic conditions.

Certified nurse-midwife (CNM): CNMs provide gynecological and low-risk obstetrical care. These advance practice registered nurses focus their study and practices on gynecology, family planning, prenatal, labor, and postpartum care. In addition to an advanced degree, CNMs must complete an accredited midwifery education program and pass a national certification exam.