Under GAPP, RNs handle complex medical care, such as ventilator management and IV therapy. LPNs provide routine skilled care, such as administering medications and tube feedings, under RN supervision. CNAs assist with bathing, mobility, and daily living tasks, but cannot give medication.
Georgia’s GAPP program assigns your child an RN, LPN, or CNA based on medical need. Each role has a different license and a different scope of practice. This guide explains the RN vs LPN vs CNA difference, including our skilled nursing services and personal care support, so you know exactly who is caring for your child.
GAPP is Georgia’s Medicaid program for medically fragile children under 21. It sends licensed caregivers into the home at $0 cost to the family. You can review the full GAPP eligibility requirements before you apply.
The state assigns caregivers based on medical necessity, not family preference. Understanding the RN vs LPN vs CNA structure helps you know what to expect. Learn more about how the GAPP process works, from intake to approval.
An RN holds an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in nursing and passed the NCLEX-RN exam. RNs have the widest scope of practice on a GAPP care team.
RNs typically manage the most complex cases, including ventilator-dependent home care.
An LPN completes a practical nursing program and passes the NCLEX-PN exam. LPNs deliver routine skilled care under RN or physician supervision.
LPNs frequently provide G-tube feeding care as part of a child’s daily routine.
A CNA completes a short state-approved training program and a competency exam. CNAs provide Personal Care Support, not skilled nursing.
CNAs cannot give medication under Georgia regulations. This is the clearest line in the RN vs LPN vs CNA comparison. CNAs are often the first familiar face families meet during an NICU-to-home transition.
GAPP splits services into two categories. Understanding the skilled nursing vs personal care support difference explains why your child gets a specific caregiver type.
Many children receive both. Skilled nursing hours cover medical tasks, while PCS hours cover daily support. Families needing a short break can also review our respite care guide for GAPP-funded relief options.
The RN vs LPN pediatric home care distinction comes down to independence. RNs assess and adjust care plans. LPNs follow the plan an RN or physician already built.
Many GAPP children have both an RN and LPN involved over time. The RN sets the plan, and the LPN delivers daily care.
The difference between CNA and LPN home health care is licensure. LPNs are licensed nurses. CNAs are trained aides.
This is one of the most searched GAPP questions. The answer depends on the caregiver’s license level.
If your child needs daily medication, confirm your care plan includes RN or LPN hours. This keeps medication administration under GAPP fully compliant.
GAPP is $0 out-of-pocket for eligible Georgia families. Several factors still shape which caregiver type your child receives.
If your child’s needs lean toward developmental support instead, compare GAPP vs. COMP/NOW Waiver options.
Care Within Reach supports children and families across Georgia with home-based skilled nursing and personal care services. Our team helps families understand the care process, prepare the necessary information, and receive support that meets the child’s daily medical needs.
Families choose Care Within Reach because of our:
Our goal is to help children with medical needs receive safe, consistent care at home while guiding families throughout the process.
Knowing the RN vs LPN vs CNA difference helps you understand your child’s GAPP care plan. Each role has a specific license, scope, and purpose on the care team.
If you have questions about your child’s care assignment, Care Within Reach can walk you through the RN vs LPN vs CNA process. Contact Care Within Reach for a free consultation about GAPP services in Georgia.
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Registered Nurses (RNs) provide complex medical care and supervise the care team. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) deliver routine skilled care, while Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) assist with daily living activities.
RNs and LPNs can administer medication at home under a physician’s order. CNAs are not permitted to administer medications under Georgia regulations.
No. Georgia regulations prohibit CNAs from administering any medication, including oral medications, G-tube medications, and emergency rescue medications.
Skilled nursing includes medical services provided by RNs or LPNs under a physician’s direction. Personal care support focuses on daily living assistance provided by CNAs.
No. GAPP is fully funded through Georgia Medicaid for eligible children. Approved services are provided at no out-of-pocket cost to qualifying families.
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