Ask an LPN (Questions about what we do and how to become one of us)

Nurses LPN/LVN

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There was a great suggestion made on starting an "ask us" thread regarding what one does, and how you can become an LPN (and there are other threads scattered throughout AN)

So, ask away, and I will check and answer what I can about being a career LPN.

I have a BA, not a BSN.

Also research how much more schooling you would need. If you have a BA that is not science based, that may be a thought--

I would also think about perhaps doing an EMT course. You could work on an ambulance for perhaps more than you are making now, get experience, some companies provide tuition assistance, and you become a familiar face at the very places where you would maybe want to work.

Fortunately, I was an LPN in a really small hospital at a time when LPN's were commonly used. I really enjoyed a lot of what others did not--the non-typical patients with strange dynamics. But clinically, I LOVED IV's.

Hospice was another favorite.

I couldn't do Hospice. I get attached to easily.:(

Specializes in LTC.
As a new LPN with no experience, do you think you make a livable wage? Becoming an LPN is something I've been considering in Lieu of an accelerated BSN (I have a bachelor's degree already). What's scared me away from it is the rumored poor pay directly out of school. I've been hearing about 12-13 right out of school. hmmm. That actually sounds better than the 11.00 bucks I'm making now!

I make 24+ a shift differential, I was making more at another facility, but I moved for better work environment. I work LTC. It depends on where you live. I'm pursuing my RN right now for the other poster that asked.

Specializes in Geriatrics, woundcare.

As a new Lpn in Ltc how do I establish that level of respect between myself and the cna's. I'm 26, and I'm a newbie at the facility a lot of the cna's are in their 40's and 50's and have been there longer than me. How do I make my position known? Even as a trainee while I'm shadowing, nurse's are sending me on tasks like refilling their water pitchers, and restocking the carts.

As a new Lpn in Ltc how do I establish that level of respect between myself and the cna's. I'm 26, and I'm a newbie at the facility a lot of the cna's are in their 40's and 50's and have been there longer than me. How do I make my position known? Even as a trainee while I'm shadowing, nurse's are sending me on tasks like refilling their water pitchers, and restocking the carts.

Im almost finish with my LPN diploma, however it's no need to "make your position known" you need to build a relationship with the CNA's or they can and will make your life hell. You're going about it the wrong way in order to get respect you have to give it and though you are a nurse now you are not too good to do any of the task that you've named. It's a team effort

As a new Lpn in Ltc how do I establish that level of respect between myself and the cna's. I'm 26, and I'm a newbie at the facility a lot of the cna's are in their 40's and 50's and have been there longer than me. How do I make my position known? Even as a trainee while I'm shadowing, nurse's are sending me on tasks like refilling their water pitchers, and restocking the carts.

By not micro-managing. Especially if the CNA's are good at what they do, work as a team well, and the residents are happy and well cared for.

And listen to what they tell you. They are very close to residents because they work for them many hours in a day. As hands on one is administratively, there is another part of the job that takes a charge nurse somewhat out of the loop.

And if they ask for your assistance, give it to them. But then create a plan so that they can be safe and successful going forward--especially if they are needing your help more and more. Use that as a goal for change.

What the nurses are asking you to do has no bearing on you as a leader--except for now you know where everything is, and get to know the residents and what they require as far as requests and such. And that's ok. There may come a time when your CNA's are knee deep in poop and you have to grab stuff off the cart. At least you know where it is, what is on it, and can help quickly.

Best wishes!

Specializes in Geriatrics, woundcare.
Im almost finish with my LPN diploma, however it's no need to "make your position known" you need to build a relationship with the CNA's or they can and will make your life hell. You're going about it the wrong way in order to get respect you have to give it and though you are a nurse now you are not too good to do any of the task that you've named. It's a team effort

Thanks for the input, but you completely took MY question out of contex! My question was posted as a new nurse in order to get advice from a seasoned "LPN" that has been through this situation a time or two before. You should not tell me what I am or am not "going about the right way, because YOU do not know what I am or am not doing! But all opinions are welcomed because this is a public site, so again I'll say thanks for the effort!

Thanks for the input, but you completely took MY question out of contex! My question was posted as a new nurse in order to get advice from a seasoned "LPN" that has been through this situation a time or two before. You should not tell me what I am or am not "going about the right way, because YOU do not know what I am or am not doing! But all opinions are welcomed because this is a public site, so again I'll say thanks for the effort!

lol yeah ok good luck. By the way i made my response based on what you posted and if you were open to all opinions you would not be getting smart nor offened about what opinion you get and who you get it from.

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