Choosing A Career: LPN Vs. Medical Assistant

Living in the age of a pandemic has forced many of us to sit down and wonder what the future holds. Maybe you’re thinking about changing the direction of your continued education, maybe your place of work has closed indefinitely, or maybe you’re burnt out and in need of a career change. One of the best fields you can work in is within the medical field. No matter the direction technology takes or the climate of your country, medical positions will always be available. Clinics and hospitals are almost always hiring for two positions: LPN’s and Medical Assistants. What’s the difference? What are the perks? What are the qualifications? We answer all of these questions and more below.

What is an LPN?

LPN is short for a licensed practical nurse, an incredibly important cog in the healthcare system. LPNs work hand in hand with registered nurses (RNs) and physicians to ensure nothing falls through the cracks. As an LPN, you help keep the channels of communication clear between the medical team and the patient’s family. You also help bathe, dress, feed, and care for the patients. Some other responsibilities may be:

• Inserting and maintaining urinary catheters
• Measuring vitals
• Monitoring IV sites
• Carrying out physical assessments
• Collecting blood, stool, and urinary samples

What Is A Medical Assistant?

As a Medical Assistant, you work under the direct instructions of a physician. Your efforts help keep everything in motion. You can find yourself helping with various tasks, such as:

• Drawing blood
• Preparing patients for appointment
• Helping with administrative duties
• Assisting physicians with appointments
• Helping patients understand prescriptions and or needed dietary changes

This is only a small glimpse of the tasks of a medical assistant. The exact job duties vary based on the state, the size of the practice, and the field of specialization.

What Are The Qualifications?

LPN Qualifications

Once you have completed a state-approved and accredited practical nursing program. You will also need to pass your National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing, also known as the NCLEX-PN.

Medical Assistant Qualifications

In many states, your employer will expect you to hold some form of higher education in medical assisting, such as some form of certificate/diploma and/or an associate’s degree. These can be obtained by attending your local community college, Votech, and/or by attending a university. No matter the route you choose, you should be done by two years at the latest. National certification is not required within all states, including Oklahoma, but many find that having such a certification can open up more opportunities and increase pay.

What Are The Perks?

These careers both share the same perks; even during a pandemic, hospitals are always hiring. Both positions provide security, have a competitive starting salary, provide healthcare and benefits, and open doors for further education. You can continue to advance and grow within the field.

Get Set Up With The Perfect Job!

No matter your age or circumstance, it is never too late to change careers or go back to school. Budgets may have to be redone, or systems may have to be put in place to help with children or your current place of employment, but options exist. Neese Personnel has become the most recognized full-service staffing agency in Oklahoma City. The two positions we have dissected are great jobs that will always be in demand. If you are interested in applying, there are several companies in the OKC area currently hiring. Visit us online to view open positions and learn how Neese Personnel can help you land your dream job.