Are status important?

[stronginchrist]

Reading alot of posts from both rn and LPN I realize that there are a few posts that tends to mention a lot about statuses and degrees behind names. Is it really about how much you accomplish? Or is it passion?

[SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN]

I'd say neither. It's about a basic level of competency and respect for your patient, no matter what your job description.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

In 8 years of front line nursing I'm rarely asked where I attended school. I'm never asked about my personal accomplishments.

There's a saying in healthcare: "Patients don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

In terms of professional identity, those "extra initials" are referred to as credentials not 'status'. Status refers to social hierarchy. Credentials indicate levels of academic and professional achievement. And yes, credentials are very important part of professional identity. Although I have collected a few degrees and certifications, I am in complete awe of our "FAAN" colleagues.

[stronginchrist]

But that is what I was talking about. The effect of social hierarchy

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

depends on your job. If you have to present as some sort of "expert" in the area, then the credentials are important. In my position an MSN is required. As for status, I know full well there are plenty of nurses who care for patients better than I ever did, but they are not qualified to do my job. So the two concepts are different.