LPN versus RN Organizations

[pagandeva2000]

Am putting this question out there out of curiousity... does it seem to you that organizations for LPNs are weaker than those for RNs? If so, why? My observations is that they are trying to put a cap on the profession by not allowing LPNs to obtain the same things RNs are fighting for, such as scope of practice, salaries and such. I was thinking about joining one, but don't wish to invest my money for no positive services that serve my interest and love for the LPN vocation.

[Leilani Greenwood]

That is the problem, no one standing up the LPNs. The so called LPN associations aren't doing anything to promote or support us at all. The only thing most associations want is your money. Try calling and see if they will help you with a problem on your job. The only nurses who get represention at state and government level are RNs. I work as an LPN in Memphis,Tn. and here LPNs were phased out of the hospital. Nursing Homes are now our only employment. Tennessee has no set rules for how many patients a nurse can have. I've had up to 35 to 60 patients,and expected to work as if had only 6 patients. Everything most be done and in perfect order. I give medication and do trach care, respiratory treatments,wound care and supervise CNAs. The paperwork is intense, admissions and discharges , transcribe orders, and do the skilled, medicare and daily charting. I most be on top of everything from a patient being sick to constipated or possible blood clot somewhere, or pneumonia. Oh, I forget to throw in IV Therapy. Yes, I'm overwhelmed. In Memphis, Tn. they fire a person over anything stupid, since I started working in the nursing homes, I've noticed that LPNs get fired or asked to resign frequently. So, you end working different places but, seeing the same co-workers faces. Basically, its like rotating crops. No one gets to build up and benefits or even job stability. I say that LPNs in America need to stand up and fight and unionize. The LPN associations nor the Nurses associations (RNs) are not going to look out for us. Let's get off our ASSES and unite. I've been slapped in the face many times with people saying we are not real nurses. I've worked in the hospital and taken care of 12 & 13 Patients. Now, since the hospital here have gone all RN they have only 5 or 6 patients and they say that's a load. As an LPN if I'm not compendent to take care of 5 or 6 patients, then how the hell am I able to that of 30 to 60 Patients. LPN of America let us Unite!