LVN/LPN Certifications in ER setting

[erdad71]

Hi, I am in LVN in a fast pace ER located in San Antonio, Texas. I recently requested to attend the TNCC/ENCP/ACLS classes. My hospital educator informed me that I was not able to take the ACLS course, due to that it was not part of my job requirement. Ok, then she told me that I could take the TNCC/ENCP classes, but not get certified, because the ENA does recognize LVN's as qualifing for the certification. That's not good.

My questions is this, if i work in the ER and deal with adult and pediatric trauma, and care for cardiac patients, then why is it that I can't get trained and certified to provide the best care possible regardless if I am an LVN or RN?

[labvampire]

I am an LPN working in an ER. They insist that I take ACLS and PALS simply because I work in the ER. I think it would be in their best interest to allow you those certifications. My hospital wants me to have every certification down the line because you never know when you are gonna need it. I would work on them and insist this is in your best interest because of your department. I think they are making a big mistake not letting you.

[vivibonita]

I agree with labvampire... i believe you should take those certifications regardless of what your employer or hospital educator says not only because it is in their best interest but it is in yours, to keep yourself educated and informed "just in case". Keep in mind that, in your job description it doesnt say what kind of CE's you have to take but you take them to stay up to date, do it for the knowledge you are going to gain. Just make sure you know what your protocol is as an LVN in this hospital, so that in case an emergency that requires you to use these new skills occurs you can stay within what you are allowed to do :)

Good luck

[labvampire]

Excellent point Vivibonita, stay within your scope of practice, but have the knowledge.