Need to hear from happy LPN's.

Jo_deye_yuh · Nov 13, 2000

hmmm...Two full days have passed and not one single comment! Is this what I am to believe that there is not one happy LPN?

Sylvia · Nov 13, 2000

Okay, we don't want you to think there are no happy LPN's!!!

I do love my work and my patients and I am very proud to be a nurse. There is not another line of work I would prefer to be in.

I just wish there wasn't such a nursing shortage, forcing us to have shifts that are way too long and patient loads that are way too high. (I know you probably weren't asking for a reply like that, but I have to be honest).

Sylvia · Nov 13, 2000

I just realized I didn't answer all of your questions. What I find most rewarding about being an LPN is the fact that I can make a difference in a person's life. I have worked in long term care, hospitals, doctor's office and public health and I know I have made a difference to many people. Sometimes it was my technical and clinical knowledge that did it, but other times it was just a smile or a touch or just listening to a patient. This may sound corny, but I know that when I am on my deathbed, I will know that my life DID make a difference.

JulieW · Nov 16, 2000

Hi there! I would have replied sooner but I've been working 12 hr days all week. I am a new LVN grad and am working med-surg in a small rural hospital. After a few bumps in the road, I can honestly say that I'm thrilled!!

I started on 7p-7a and without realizing it was the shift I hated, I thought I'd chosen the wrong career. I dreaded going to work and was so very miserable. I switched to days, and boy, what a difference! I actually enjoy going to work everyday. What a concept, eh? I am thrilled with my role. I feel what I'm doing is important. I feel my duties are respected by the RNs I work with and I certainly have respect for them. We have some of the most incredible aides I've ever worked with and our care teams really make for a nice level of care. That is what I find most rewarding at this point. Patient appreciation is also rewarding.

Thanks for the topic!

Julie, LVN

Jo_deye_yuh · Nov 16, 2000

JulieW~ Thank you for your positive response. I too, am a LPN and just switched from being an Orthopedic physician's clinical/surgical nurse (for the past 2 yrs), to a VA hospital Med/Surg nurse. I find my new role very challenging. I left a very close network of skilled nurses and friends. Starting over is hard, I miss the comradery I shared at the clinic. But the new environment I am in, is just that...new.

They have very high emphasis on CME's et furthering education. The staff I am among now are very skilled and knowledgable. I just feel overwhelmed coming from such a specialized field, to the grand pot-luck of medical variety! I am eager to learn and relish the opportunities ahead.

I am proud of my job, but am not quite satisfied in my current role as of yet...still have a ways to go until I feel confident and compitent. Every day has it's rewards...from patients to staff.

Again, it is good to have your replies ya'll!

Take care. Health and Blessings~ Jodie

momangel29 · Nov 18, 2000

I have been an LPN for two years and I am happy with what I do. I am going to start RN school in January,not for the money but to be able to do more to help people.I would have no problem with being an LPN forever but I have goals in my life and one of them was to be a registered nurse. I am not sorry that I was a CNA for six years and then an LPN. Doing this in steps has helped me tremendously.

ucavalpn · Nov 18, 2000

I LOVE BEING AN LPN - I HAVE WORKED AS AN LPN FOR 9 YEARS - I HAVE NO DESIRE TO BE AN RN - I CAN DO WHAT I LOVE ABOUT NURSING AS AN LPN - I HAVE WORKED MED/SURG , CARDIO AND RECENTLY HAVE STARTED WORKING IN HOME HEALTH - I HAVE ALWAYS ENJOYED MY WORK , BUT THIS IS THE BEST JOB I HAVE EVER HAD - I FEEL I REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN MY PT'S LIVES - THEY ARE MOST GRATEFUL AND SAY SO .

Jo_deye_yuh · Nov 22, 2000

Are you content in your role? Do you think the LPN role is fading? Should all LPN's go on to get their ADN or BSN? or is it acceptable for someone to be satisfied being a LPN for their career choice?