Many students who are studying to become nurses may find the different levels of nursing confusing. As mentioned above, the definitions of RN, LPN, and CNA themselves lead to many differences. Additionally, there are different educational requirements for each. You can become a certified nursing assistant or assistant after completing just a few weeks of classes. Federal regularization of nurse education is provided for in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA 1987). These state-approved training programs include a minimum of 75 hours with 16 hours of supervised clinical training. The programs target basic patient care skills in hospitals, home health agencies and long-term care facilities. Once the program is completed, a student is certified as a nurse aide and can take the state skills assessment for inclusion in the state's nursing assistant registry. All CNAs are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education per year. A licensed practical nurse is a person who has completed a state-approved educational program and passed the NCLEX-PN. Programs typically last 12-18 months and are offered primarily through vocational and technical schools. Most programs include both classroom work (e.g. anatomy and physiology, nursing and pharmacology) and clinical training in a nursing laboratory and in a healthcare setting such as a hospital and nursing home. An LPN is able to practice in numerous settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Through professional associations, LPNs can choose the option to improve their level of knowledge in a specific area (e.g. gerontology and IV therapy) by obtaining certification. They can also complete an LPN to RN program to become a regi...... middle of paper ...... curriculum includes courses in general education, humanities, liberal arts, science, and nursing (Garneau & Zerwekh, 2012). The AACN indicates that necessary components of the baccalaureate degree include professional values, basic skills and knowledge, role development, and a liberal education (DeLaune & Ladner, 2010). The focus is on building critical decision-making skills, developing research skills, and practicing independent nursing judgment. In order for a nursing student to receive a BSN degree, they must complete both the nursing degree program requirements and the college or university's degree requirements. Once all requirements are met, a graduate of a BSN program can take the NCLEX-RN exam. A BSN graduate may choose to further advance their education by attending a graduate program (Garneau & Zerwekh, 2012).