LPN/RPN leadership role

systoly · Dec 6, 2011

I haven't practiced in Canada. Could you tell me what PSW and RPN stand for?

mazy · Dec 6, 2011

Are you saying that you will be acting as a charge nurse? Because that is going to be very difficult to pull off as a new LPN...or even as a new RN.

I would be suspicious about working in a facility that would do that, to me it says that they can't find any experienced nurses who want to work there.

loriangel14, RN · Dec 6, 2011

Acting in this leadership role is not uncommon, even as a new grad. Many of my classmates had this role in their first jobs after graduation. It is common in LTC.You can delegate anything that is within the PSW role as long as it is something they have received training for.The best leaders lead by example IMO.Work just as hard as the rest while still maintaining the decision making role.

RPN is a Registered Practical Nurse( a 2 year diploma course).PSW is a Personal Support Worker, similar to a CNA, in Ontario and 6 month full time program.

loriangel14, RN · Dec 6, 2011

If you get hired in LTC in my area being in charge at times is part and parcel of the job, new grad or not.

NamasteNurse, BSN, RN · Dec 6, 2011

So the question was "How to be a good leader without having issues?:

First of all RESPECT! It goes both ways.

The CNA's, new or experienced always seem to have issues with authority. Just the way it is. Since they do the real hands on dirty work of the floor, I think they feel that they are under appreciated and underpaid. They like to do things their way with minimal guidance. That said, you will need to guide them.

First off, appreciate them. Say please and thank you. Offer your help always, for example, "Mary, Mrs so-and-so needs to be changed, do you need me to help you?" Pay attention to and act on what the aides tell you, such as checking out a new skin tear or the fact that they are constipated. Again, thank them. They will follow your example.

Be a good example of hard work. Don't break company rules but be on the aides side in disputes. Go to bat for them, like if they are short handed, call the supervisor and say (when the aides are listening)..."my aides are working short, is there someone who can come help out for an hour or so?" They will see that you see they are struggling and thank you.

Bring them goodies every so often. All nurses like to eat! :)

Get to know them. Ask about their kids, spouses, grandkids etc. Show concern when they seem "off".

Ask them to come see a wound, or procedure and have them assist you. Point out important aspects in a respectful way. Always keep the aides informed of changes in residents condition such as needing an off loading boot, a low bed, ambulation etc. Tell them that so and so is on lasix and will probably need to be toileted a lot...and realize this is a huge pain in the A$$ and but you will help if needed.

That will get you started. TEAM work is the key. You NEED them and they need you, so try to get along and show them you care and understand. I always think that every nurse should start out as an aide, but not everyone does.

Good luck!

RPNgee · Dec 6, 2011

Wow, this is exactly what I needed.:redbeathe Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!! I will think about your advice during my interview and I will keep this in mind. I think that it is so true that, team work is the key of it all. I believe helping each other and respecting each other are the key to a good shift, after all, we only have one goal which is to provide the best possible care for our patients. When I was doing my pre-grad placement, I help a lot of the PSWs and they liked me a lot. I appreciate every little thing they do and they also help me too!!! which feels so great.... I love working with people who understands the power of team work. I am a very easy going person, friendly and nice... I always listen all the time and have a good communication skills. I hope that the person interviewing me sees my potential and my passion for nursing. Goodluck to me! :) Thanks so much for your reply. God bless :redbeathe