Changes and frustrations

[bethann27]

In my geographical area LPNs are currently being systematically stripped of our duties. First was changes in performing minor procedures that were no longer policy. Next came a push to notify the house supervisor (RN) do assessments prior to contacting MD or CRNP. Now we are no longer allowed to do some types of wound care. Lastly, we are being asked to fill out notification forms to give the unit manager rather than contacting the MD or CRNP directly for changes in condition.

The care my residents are receiving is worsening and it is hard to be a part of this change.

Anyone work in LTC staffed with RNs? Do you have med aides? How long does the transition take? Is a team approach better?

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

I can only imagine how frustrated you must be. My suggestion? Ask your supervisor to explain why the changes are being made - what outcome does the organization hope to achieve. You deserve to know why this is happening. There may be some very justifiable reasons which will make the change more palatable for you.

[bethann27]

We've basically been told the MD and NPs want to communicate with RNs only. The overall plan of organization is not communicated to the floor nurses. I've literally sat beside my RN supervisor while they relayed what I was telling them to the NP.

I am insulted that NPs equate my education with CNAs, MAs or PCTs. The floor nurses here do not have access to current labs, we have no standing orders to address simple complaints i.e. constipation, etc. I am customer service, pill pusher and safety patrol. A front person basically.

As it is I do what I can, where I am with what I've got. I enjoy the work it's just NOT what I studied and am licensed to do. I could do this job without all the mental and physical gymnastics of the nursing program. It might actually be less irritating if I did not know what isn't being addressed or the elective, unnecessary and extremely expensive procedures being encouraged.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I remember when I worked PRN as an LVN at a psychiatric hospital several years ago. The medical director would only speak with RNs. Although my ego was slightly bruised, I decided to return to school to earn my RN license.

Several years later, I am still the same nurse, but all of a sudden my opinion matters to certain people. It's not right, but it is what it is.

[bethann27]

I hear you & I have no current plans to endure a bridge program. You must have very thick skin to handle the job for sure.

The educational requirements are ridiculously high for other careers too. Many with a Masters make less than 50k yearly. Sigh...yes...it is what it is.