What a nightmare, is right! I'd have blown a gasket the first time she tried to tell me my job! Actually I've been in that situation. I don't like confrontation either, but, it got to the point where I couldn't let things go any more...And I told that pushy medical assistant who felt she was "just as good as a nurse" that a) I was the RN b) I make the decisions because I have the license c) if you don't like it, leave.
You are a long time employee, you are licensed, an LPN! Do not take this lying down! This person is dangerous, if you allow her to work under you, and make the decisions and comments on treatment it will be asked why you allowed this person to do what ever it is she is going to do that causes harm. Stand up my sister! Be brave... She is NOT a nurse, you are a nurse! LPNs get a bad rap and I don't know why!
Ive worked with some fantastic LPNs and I've learned so much from them.... I know it was drilled into people's brains that the RN is in charge, but in this case YOU are in charge! My best friend is an LPN, I went from pediatric OR to LTC .... Without my now best friend I wouldn't have lasted very long in LTC, I knew nothing about Alzheimer's and Dementia... Palliative Care was something I had never dealt with! Now? I am the palliative care RN where I work! ( I moved back home to be close to elderly parents... No pediatric OR in rural NS) Don't think because you're an LPN you are not a brilliant fantastic nurse! You are! I owe everything to my friend, she is a brilliant fantastic nurse!
Now, go tell her she is not the LPN, she is not the GN, she is unlicensed assistive medical personnel and she is YOUR assistant, and things will be done according to your policy and procedure manuals..... If she doesn't like it she can leave.
talk to your managers, communication with them is very important. Write down the dates and times she has done something untoward and report it... Let them know your concerns. They are valid!
I know.... I'm telling you what to do but this is just my advice, be brave my friend. This person is a bully, very insecure, and she's taking advantage of your passivity. It used to happen to me all the time, I had to make the decision to become a strong passionate nurse for bullied nurses and an advocate for my clients/patients.
Best wishes to you!
