In British Columbia, our govt. has hand picked "health authorities" to oversee our health care in the various "regions". The health authorities are giving direction to management, admin. of various hospitals to outright replace RNs with LPNs and in some cases, with NAs (nurse aides). This has happened in our acute care (surgical unit - where 8 nurses were replaced with LPNs) & it is happening in our long-term care (extended care) facilities.
Everything is dollars and sense with this govt/health authorities.
No disresepect meant to LPNs or NAs. Each are an integral part of the health care team. In no way however, should one licensed or unlicensed body - replace the other.
The govt./health authority is going great guns on discrediting the RNs as a profession. Through the help of media - RNs are going by the dinosaur way.
Is there "anyone" out there with any ideas/words of wisdom on how to combat this via the media (i.e.: explaining the value, importance of nursing through a letter to the editor, etc.). Or any other avenue? It is hard to think of a way to explain the importance of nursing without sounding grandiose.
Any and all help greatly appreciated. I am afraid we will become even more of a dying breed than we already are.