Do Practical Nurses Suffer When Economy Tanks?

In the US they do, when things are good the LPN are given the jobs the RNs do not want, when the economy is tight the RNs are now willing to take these positions.

In the US, LPNs are the back bone of long term care and are unappreciated. As a former LPN instructor I know that the LPN program is rigorous and comprehensive. In my opinion LPNs often don't get the appreciation they deserve. I am wondering if this is the same for Canada?

Hmm. Most of us LPNs are unionized. So they can't just "get rid" of us when finances are restricted. If anything we are utilized to full scope, to save the cost of the expensive RNs.

Could it be that there is simply no turn over of LPNs at your facility? I've seen times when the float pool was the only job available. Full time positions are usually the most desired but many prefer part time and pick up extra shifts to cover the hours. I work part time because it suits my life (I know I'm guaranteed xhours/pay period) and pick up extra shifts when I feel like it.

In the last decade, I've never seen a LPN terminated for financial reasons. I've seen positons "frozen" BUT patient nurse ratios have to be maintained.

But Caliotter, the vast majority of health care facilities in Canada are publicly owned or funded and unionised. There are some privately owned LTCs and DAL facilities up here but they are also heavily unionized.

I don't just see our unions standing by and permitting their membership be decimated by businesses.

When there were healthcare cutbacks in the 1990's both RNs and LPNs were let go from active treatment and both unions have long memories.

I will take a stab at this question. In Ontario, hospital utilization of RN's or RPN's really depends on the hospital. In tough times, some hospitals will let RPN's go and some will let RN's go. I would go on the ONA website and you will see that RN's get laid off too. I think though, as an RN it will be far easier to obtain and keep a full time hospital position. If the hospitals don't get any extra $$, come budget time, I think it will make for a lot of layoffs and at your hospital, both the RN's are RPN's are worried about layoffs this spring. At the present time, the economy in Ontario is in a bit of a tailspin.

I am concerned as I plan to try to start my RN in the fall if all goes well but yet I worry that if things continue, it could be a real challenge to get enough hours.

In my area, as far as I know, all nursing homes, almost all retirement homes and all hospitals are union. All employees must join the union and pay dues.