Communication

Katillac, RN · Sep 10, 2018

My perception of the PN role vs. the RN role is that LPNs can do much of what the RNs do technically except hang blood, push meds IV, and manage central lines, depending on the nurse practice act of their state. The big difference in NY is that LPNs are permitted to assess and report objective findings but not interpret the findings and case manage as a result of the interpretation. Neither are LPNs allowed to develop care plans or nursing diagnoses independently, or direct the work of other nurses.

Some of the best nurses I've known have been LPNs. As a GN in med/surg, two in particular saved me on several occasions and I will always be eternally grateful to them. I can't think of any barriers or special techniques I use to communicate with LPNs because I communicate with them as individuals, not as a people holding a particular license.

Kego1111 · Sep 10, 2018

Thank you for responding and for your honest opinion!! That is actually very refreshing to hear that where you work there seems to be a mutual respect and you look at them as individuals. for my paper I need to identify some barriers between RN and Lpn Which is actually deeming harder than I had expected!! I thank you very much for your input :)

nursej22, MSN, RN · Sep 15, 2018

1 barrier I can see is just having the time to communicate. Shift change is often hectic and management seldom gives enough time for a safe handoff, let alone time for team members to devise a plan for the shift.

In acute care, the RN may have a full load to herself, and then be expected to oversee an LPN as well. She may feel overwhelmed with her assignment, thus leading to resentment about a perceived additional workload.

An LPN may feel resentful that even though they have more experience than the RN, there is an imposed hierarchy imposed in that the RN is expected to "direct care. "