Registered Nurse Vs Physician Assistant: What's the Difference? — Pacific College (2024)

Let’s compare these two healthcare roles and see some key differences and similarities. We will also explore how these two careers compare in terms of education requirements, salary, job duties and more.

Difference Between PA and RN

Although PA and RN are not doctors, they assume some of the roles traditionally performed by doctors— such as making diagnoses and prescribing medication. Additionally, they both work alongside doctors to monitor the patients’ health and provide direct medical care but PA and RN are usually drawn from different traditions.

Both these careers have their advantages, however, the benefits of choosing one over the other depend on their inherent education requirements, job duties, and salary among others.

Differences in education

The primary distinction between a RN and PA begins with their respective educational backgrounds. Once PAs and NPs are qualified and licensed, the programs they go through will determine the type of treatment and services they provide.

There are two main educational paths to becoming an RN:

• Getting an Associate’s degree in Nursing or

• Getting a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing

While an associate degree typically lasts two years, a bachelor’s degree usually takes three to four years to be completed. Once you’ve taken one of these paths, you will need to complete the NCLEX-RN exam in order to become licensed. Additionally, RNs need a minimum of two years of experience in healthcare coupled with a GPA of B or higher in the nursing program.

Compared to RNs, PAs have less choices as regards their qualifications but are required to obtain more education and training. To start a job as a PA, candidates need to have a master’s degree in physician assistant studies that usually lasts about two years, and previous work experience that involves direct patient care. Furthermore, all PAs need to be licensed with PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination).

All in all, as per education and career preparation, PAs have a more science-heavy list of prerequisites and previous healthcare experience compared to RNs, but both careers are valuable in the world of healthcare especially at a time when the healthcare system is facing more demands than ever.

Differences in job responsibilities

The everyday responsibilities play a significant role in deciding whether or not you will be satisfied in a particular job position. It's crucial to note that, despite job descriptions, responsibilities will differ based on years of experience and location.

Both PAs and RNs work closely with patients and they often share similar job duties such as assisting in treatment plans, instructing patients on their care, and providing life support when necessary. However, despite some of their similarities, these two professions also have very different roles in healthcare.

A registered nurse is the person with whom patients spend the most time on a daily basis. They are the prime guardians of a patient's health—assessing their records and symptoms, answering patient questions, communicating concerns, and administering medical care. Their specific responsibilities will vary depending on where they work and the needs of the patient, but some common duties may include the following:

• Interacting with patients’ families

• Guiding and making suggestions in aftercare measures

• Administering medications

• Tending to wound care and other treatments

• Consulting with other members of the nursing team and supervisors to evaluate and determine the best treatment plans for patients.

• Recording and interpreting diagnostic tests and updating patient medical information.

While registered nurses assist patients from a nursing approach, PAs assume a role more or less similar to that of physicians. This gives physician assistants a more direct role in administering tests, performing examinations, and prescribing medication. PAs also perform different services that may typically be performed by doctors, but most of the time, they have to report back to a supervising doctor.

Other responsibilities may include:

• Conducting physical examinations

• Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays, blood tests)

• Determining patient’s diagnosis

• Prescribing medicine

• Assisting in surgeries

Differences in salary

Although both PA and RN are great fulfilling career options, salary and job security still play an important role in personal and professional stability. Because PAs require more education and training, they tend to have more job opportunities and salaries tend to be higher for them. On average, registered nurses enjoy a median annual salary of $75,330, compared to $115,390 for physician assistants, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Additionally, the need for registered nurses and physician assistants is increasing as more and more people pursue such careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of registered nurses is projected to grow by 7% as of 2029. Similarly, the number of physician assistants is expected to grow by 31% until 2029.

It is also important to note that salaries vary based on the geographic location and expertise, but both career paths seem promising and are growing much faster than they have before.

The Bottom Line: Which One Should You Choose?

Although PAs and RNs do not have the same roles, they are viable alternatives for anybody considering a career in healthcare. Both these career options play a vital role in our healthcare system and have bright career prospects in the future. At their core, both a registered nurse and a physician assistant require someone who tends patients with love, compassion, and warmth.