When did it become ok to put someone down because they are NOT an RN?

Nurses LPN/LVN

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When did it become ok to put someone down because they are NOT an RN?

Mothers day with the family, everyone was sitting around the table. I chose this opportunity to announce that after 2 years of hard work (pre-reqs and the VN course), that I have not only graduated with honors, but also passed the NCLEX. In the midst of my personal joy and praise (well earned in my opinion), a family member (who is a medical assistant), interrupts everyone and says, “Yea but LVN’s are already phased out” … “No one uses them no more”. The whole room went silent for a few moments and then the topic of conversation changed to vegetable gardens. What happen to my moment? Not to sound shallow, but I wanted my moment!

The biggest kicker, toward the end of the day, he was greatly praised for just the THOUGHT of going to RN school. He said, “Yea, I went to the college the other day and I’m going to sign up for the wait list for the RN program …. Only 2 years and I’m in”. OMG … THERE ARE PRE-REQS!!!! You can’t just sign up and magically get in! And again, what about ME? I am in school FULL TIME for my pre-reqs to the LVN to RN bridge program, while doing the LVN! GRRRRR!

Ok, I just had to vent. Yesterday I was crushed, but today I AM MAD! :angryfire

~GB

Oh man I hear you, my FATHER tells me to get my RN every single time I talk to him, it's been 2 years! It is really getting on my nerves.

It never ceases to amaze me how some people think they need to run your life, when they can't even run their own well. I have a friend who used to work with me. She has two special needs kids and our Clinical Nurse Educator used to nag her to death to enter Nursing School. Instead, she transfered to another department and is much happier.

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
It never ceases to amaze me how some people think they need to run your life, when they can't even run their own well. I have a friend who used to work with me. She has two special needs kids and our Clinical Nurse Educator used to nag her to death to enter Nursing School. Instead, she transfered to another department and is much happier.

What job did your friend do? It is true...people think that it is acceptable to push their personal beliefs on others.

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What job did your friend do? It is true...people think that it is acceptable to push their personal beliefs on others.

She is a PCT (patient care technician) and has been for 15 years in our ER. In fact, she was one of the three best techs we had. The pushing that went on, and ultimately drove her away, along with the other two techs, didn't stop until our Clinical Nurse Educator left and was replaced with someone who is much more understanding and not nearly so pushy. It just seems like such a waste. Encouraging people is one thing, but verbally and emotionally pushing them is just plain abusive, no matter what the relationship.

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
She is a PCT (patient care technician) and has been for 15 years in our ER. In fact, she was one of the three best techs we had. The pushing that went on, and ultimately drove her away, along with the other two techs, didn't stop until our Clinical Nurse Educator left and was replaced with someone who is much more understanding and not nearly so pushy. It just seems like such a waste. Encouraging people is one thing, but verbally and emotionally pushing them is just plain abusive, no matter what the relationship.

I used to be a patient care technician. Heck, when I compare then and now, I would say that I had a bit less physical and emotional stress back then, and probably would have remained one if it weren't for the increase mobility that the LPN offered. I can see if someone were to mention to this person once or twice that they felt she was capable of being a good nurse, but at the same time, any 'educated' person can get the hint that their opinions are not always welcomed or appreciated. When you think about it, not everyone is meant to be any sort of nurse...LPN or RN. But, let's appreciate the talents that they have to offer the health care team.

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I used to be a patient care technician. Heck, when I compare then and now, I would say that I had a bit less physical and emotional stress back then, and probably would have remained one if it weren't for the increase mobility that the LPN offered. I can see if someone were to mention to this person once or twice that they felt she was capable of being a good nurse, but at the same time, any 'educated' person can get the hint that their opinions are not always welcomed or appreciated. When you think about it, not everyone is meant to be any sort of nurse...LPN or RN. But, let's appreciate the talents that they have to offer the health care team.

Thank you. I was beginning to wonder if I was the only one that got that lesson. It's nice to know that I am not alone. I miss the co-worker's knowledge, willingness to help, and skills. It has been interesting to note that after obtaining my LPN lic., and my nurse manager emailing everyone to announce that fact, that I still, nearly two months later, have people who are treating me like I am still a tech, and then act amazed that I am a nurse. I didn't change the work I do, I just expanded it. But when I am trying to start an IV and an RN walks in and asks "what are you doing" in front of the patient no less, I have to admit that had I been in my friend's position, I would probably have left too.:idea:

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.
Thank you. I was beginning to wonder if I was the only one that got that lesson. It's nice to know that I am not alone. I miss the co-worker's knowledge, willingness to help, and skills. It has been interesting to note that after obtaining my LPN lic., and my nurse manager emailing everyone to announce that fact, that I still, nearly two months later, have people who are treating me like I am still a tech, and then act amazed that I am a nurse. I didn't change the work I do, I just expanded it. But when I am trying to start an IV and an RN walks in and asks "what are you doing" in front of the patient no less, I have to admit that had I been in my friend's position, I would probably have left too.:idea:

I would be insulted also, if an RN or anyone for that matter where to question me in such a way before a patient. It may diminish the trust and the therapeutic relationship you tried to create, and bottom line is that YOU are ALSO a NURSE. I am in a similar position in that I work in the same clinic where I worked as a patient care associate and now, it is sort of a blend of duties. What I get from the PCAs is that they assume that I will pick up some of their work and that is annoying. What I get from RNs is primarily questions on why didn't I personally become an RN (equally annoying, after awhile). Do you think that the RN had a momentary lapse of memory? It may be taking a bit of time to get used to seeing you as an LPN rather than a tech.

I continue to read, and make myself comprehend common diseases down to their simpliest explanations so that it does not stress the client. I laugh because in most cases, I can usually explain to the point of comprehension without losing the meaning of the subject and many patients specifically ask for me. I wish both, you and your friend the best of luck!

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I would be insulted also, if an RN or anyone for that matter where to question me in such a way before a patient. It may diminish the trust and the therapeutic relationship you tried to create, and bottom line is that YOU are ALSO a NURSE. I am in a similar position in that I work in the same clinic where I worked as a patient care associate and now, it is sort of a blend of duties. What I get from the PCAs is that they assume that I will pick up some of their work and that is annoying. What I get from RNs is primarily questions on why didn't I personally become an RN (equally annoying, after awhile). Do you think that the RN had a momentary lapse of memory? It may be taking a bit of time to get used to seeing you as an LPN rather than a tech.

I continue to read, and make myself comprehend common diseases down to their simpliest explanations so that it does not stress the client. I laugh because in most cases, I can usually explain to the point of comprehension without losing the meaning of the subject and many patients specifically ask for me. I wish both, you and your friend the best of luck!

Thanks, and I will try to remember that not everyone can adjust to my new position at the same time or in the same way. My friend is doing soooo well now in her new position working Pre-op holding. She is trusted and respected more, and treated better. I am very happy for her.

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

I just graduated 5/24:balloons: !!! Im so excited about starting my career, but you do have people who will try to bring you down. Im tired of trying to explain the difference . It has been times where I just wanted to scream. I think some people think RN is better because you make more money and the title. But people who think like that dont understand nursing.Its more than $$$ or a title.Its about caring for people. So the next time a person says "your not a nurse" say,What is the last initial of LVN/LPN? NURSE...Thats right

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Specializes in Internal Medicine, Home Health, Med-Surg.

SOUNDS LIKE HE IS JEALOUS!!!! I'VE HEARD THE SAME TYPES OF COMMENTS, EXCEPT THAT I'M NOT GONNA BE A REAL NURSE!!!

CONGRATS!!!:monkeydance:

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Specializes in PCU/Hospice/Oncology.

My 87 year old grandmother said something that made me just kind of stop and look at her like she was an alien.

I told her that I was loving my LPN program and learning so much. She replied with, "Well then why dont you go to medical school! And stop cleaning **** the rest of your life."

Ever see a dog cock his head to one side and just look at you as if to say, "huh?" Thats how I felt. I wonder if the elderly we take care of feel that way? I think not!

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Specializes in CVICU and Trauma.

I was just looking through some of my old posts and came across this one I made over 2 years ago .... it made me laugh because of where I am now!

UPDATE:

With 2 plus years under my belt as an LVN and currently in a BSN program with just over a year left to completion ... I couldn't be happier! I have NO REGRETS for the path I took in my nursing! I think I am a dang good LVN and I will be an even better RN (BSN).

As for my "MA" family member ... well, he is still a MA but is singing a different song now. He is now starting an LVN program this fall! Ahahahahaha! Oh and he wants me to help me study! Of course I will help him, after all he is family .... but I just had to laugh when he asked!

Anyway, I just thought the end result was worth updating for those up for a good laugh!

~GB

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Dear Gingerbell, Thank you so much for the update. I am very happy for you! You kept moving and that is good! I'm still thinking about it(I'm an LPN). I know going back will be a good move, I'm just having trouble trying to decide how to go about it(with my current responsibilities). I thought about College Net, but I'm leary because of the economy etc. Wouldn't want to get caught midstream, and have a company go out of business(heaven forbid). So I would love to hear about a grant/scholarship program, and a small college atmosphere would be nice. If you know of anything like that let me know. Much success and happiness to you!!

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