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Can Lpns work in the Med surg unit in hospitals?
Yes of course they can. Unlike the US, the scope of PNs is expanding all the time. RPNs/LPNs are being hired in almost all areas now. We are now able to access PICC lines and the rumor is IV push is going to be added to our skill soon.
I'm able to IV push in Alberta. Did the course, did the certification. Will never use it on my unit. People I know who work general surgery never use it either because it's just not time effective on our patient base.
I've worked post partum. It's not what you think it will be. The work load is huge. Double paperwork because Mum and babe are each considered a patient. You really have to enjoy teaching and be able to referee disputes between assorted parents v. grandparents, grandma v. grandma, possibly baby daddies showing up.
The hospital I work in is a major high risk delivery centre and the beds are never empty. Mums unless they are sections rarely stay longer than overnight. My friend recently gave birth at 2100 hours and was discharged at 1000 the next day. One shift I remember having ten mums and 12 babes. Twins can ruin your day.
Most of my class wanted to work post partum but after placement time there few still wanted to.
Oh, and one other thing, my hospital system divides Medicine and Surgery into two different areas. You work either medicine or surgery.
Same here. We have surgical floors and medical floors (thank goodness - I do NOT enjoy medicine. Although we do get medicine overflow from time to time.)
Also, Canadiangirl...I am interested to hear about your role in the L&D. I've never heard of an RPN around here in that area (not in my hospital system)
I'm able to IV push in Alberta. Did the course, did the certification. Will never use it on my unit. People I know who work general surgery never use it either because it's just not time effective on our patient base.
Yeah it's like my PICC certification. We very seldom have a patient on our floor with one.
RNsRWe, ASN, RN
3 Articles; 10,428 Posts
Ah, didn't know you were in Canada when I posted.
Well good luck to you :)