Who Wants to Remain a LPN?

pagandeva2000, LPN · May 28, 2008

I'm an LPN, and doubt I'll go on to become an RN.
Why?
Because I'm only in nursing for the patients. I detest a lot of things about nursing, but the patients make it worth it.
(I work in skilled nursing.)
Why would I want to do more paperwork? Or why would I want to be the one calling the doctor everyday? Or dealing with families all the time? I like being that center stone between the CNA's and the RN's.
As far as intelligence goes, I know I'm smarter than the three RN's I work with. For heaven's sake, just today I asked an RN to check my calculations on an elixir dose of heart medication, because even though I was 99.9% that I had it right, I would rather have been proven wrong by the RN then to have given the patient the wrong dose. Well, the RN couldn't figure out the calculation. She couldn't do it! She called the pharmacy and verified that I had the right dose.
Can you imagine?
(Later on she reprimanded me in front of about 25 patients, on something pathetic. Obviously she felt belittled by not being able to do something I could - but hey...I just wanted to double check the dose.)
My self-esteem is intact. I know why I'm in nursing. I have nothing to prove. RN's can keep the bigger paycheck and all that responsibility and I'll stay an LPN and be able to sleep nights.

Just today, my clinic had a party for two RNs who recently earned their Master's Degrees. I was proud of them because I knew that they worked very hard. Several people asked me when I was going back for the RN, and I said boldly that "I am NOT". At first, I used to go into explaining why, but now, I don't see it as necessary. One even said to me that watching them transition yet again should give me incentive...(NOT). I can be just as happy to see others move up, while not feeling that I have to do the same thing because they are. I find that I am not as distracted with more BS as they are, and can focus more on task than being overloaded and overwhelmed with paperwork.

The same way as you state, my self esteem is also intact (and am not saying that the RNs self esteem is a bloody mess-not true), and I also agree that I like to be that go-between the aides and RNs. I comprehend both sides of the fence, try to mediate when I can, but the bottom line for me is that I really cannot see me getting involved in what RNs have to do. When I come in to work, I get my assignment and I move on while they sit and argue. This is not to say that people should not go on to become RNs for their own personal growth or reasons. But, don't look down on me, or feel that I am settling...I am not. I want to be where I am and I am proud of my own accomplishments. And, I know that the patients and nurses are glad to have me with them. That, to me, is worth more.

pagandeva2000, LPN · May 29, 2008

I'm surprised at how challenging LPN school is. I respect LPNs, and now realize the amount of knowledge LPNs have now that I'm in school.
Unfortunately, LPNs aren't given the opportunity OR respect they deserve in my area. It's sad, unfair, and wrong. But, since LPNs are intelligent and have transition programs open to them to become RNs, I think it serves those LPNs who can become RNs (those with time, etc.) to do so. It's not about a different "level", it's just the way it's set up in the system. It's not right, and it just is as it is, but the RN has more opportunity and is better compensated than LPNs. I mean, even RN students completely change their tone when they hear I'm in LPN school and not RN school. And, if RNs don't even understand the skills LPNs have, I'm afraid to find what patients/families/physicians/PTs, etc. misunderstand the LPN role to be.
Hopefully knowledge about LPNs will increase, but with hospitals in my area refusing to hire LPNs, and standards being set in other settings that exclude LPNs and hire only RNs, I can't see things going in any direction but down in the near future.

I can certainly understand your statement. The public needs to know. So, what I do is tell them when I have an opportunity. It is not bragging, but I try and do is continue to read and educate myself so that I represent LPNs well. In fact, I am angry when some LPNs don't do this. I try to be articulate, knowledgable and demonstrate confidence. I also admit what I don't know but will find out.

What I enjoy most is breaking down things in a 'practical' way so that the patient understands what is happening. I speak in their language, so to speak to make it as simple as possible for them, while empowering them at the same time. I go to health fairs in the summertime and we do a great deal of teaching. My favorite is when I met other nurses (RNs) and they assume that I am one as well. I am proud to say "No, I am not", but not because I am slighting the RNs, but to demonstrate that we are knowledgable as well, because we are NURSES. :up: :nurse:

missjennmb · May 29, 2008

the bottom line for me is that I really cannot see me getting involved in what RNs have to do. When I come in to work, I get my assignment and I move on while they sit and argue.

Is it really truly better for your stress level as an LPN? My biggest fear about nursing is that its going to be one big fight/petty bs nightmare. Not with patients because I really feel like I can give the extra patience and understanding there since they're in pain and scared and whatnot but when it comes to my superiors and those I am going to have to go to for help.... thats where I wonder how in the world I'm going to be strong enough.

Granted its been years since I've had to deal with anything like that, but nobody wants to be miserable w/ their coworkers.

pagandeva2000, LPN · May 29, 2008

Is it really truly better for your stress level as an LPN? My biggest fear about nursing is that its going to be one big fight/petty bs nightmare. Not with patients because I really feel like I can give the extra patience and understanding there since they're in pain and scared and whatnot but when it comes to my superiors and those I am going to have to go to for help.... thats where I wonder how in the world I'm going to be strong enough.
Granted its been years since I've had to deal with anything like that, but nobody wants to be miserable w/ their coworkers.

Being a nurse on any level is a big responsibility. I do believe that you cannot actually avoid all of the BS...however, I am choosing what BS I want to deal with. I know that there are many LPNs that work in charge positions in nursing homes, assisted living and other places. Most of this depends on where you work and the responsibilities entailed at that particular facility. Where I work, the LPN is more task oriented, but does have to think on her feet, does still use critical thinking. But, we are not as bombarded down with mountains of paperwork, nor are the first in the line that administrators are seeking out for ridiculous reasons. Again, this is my place of work...others may have a different view.

While I don't think you will be able to skirt around the crappy attitudes of all co-workers, you will be able to better assess if nursing is for you. I was able to tell the difference-LPN nursing is for me, RN nursing is not. I think that they put too much on the RNs, and they (the good ones)do not have the necessary support. From what I have witnessed, a caring RN that really wants to have better outcomes for the patients as well as their co-workers have a harder time than those that coast, but, bottom line is that one has to be able to live with themselves and sleep at night. One thing that is helpful though is read policy and procedure, and also follow your gut. If it does not seem right or safe, do not do it. Observe people and see who is trustworthy and who is not. If it is too toxic, then, keep other doors open and move on. You will definitely have to learn to be strong, but tactful to gain respect,but that is anywhere.

Hoping2beRN, BSN, RN · May 29, 2008

If my passion was in an area that I could stay an LPN, I would, but it's not. I love OB and NICU. I would like to eventually get my master or DNP in neonatology. I have been asked by several people "why not just be a doctor?" I feel like nurses by nature (well for the most part) are caring and nurturing, and that is what I am. I couldn't give a patients family the news "your baby is going to die" then walk away like most doctors do. I want the knowledge to care for my patients, but also the ability to care for my patients. Doctors just don't have the ability to spend time with the patients or families, for the most part.

So for me, it's not that I don't want to be an LPN, but I am using it as a stepping stone to get my feet wet in nursing while trudging along the way!

OgopogoLPN, LPN, RN · May 30, 2008

Ask me in about 5 months ...I will start my 6 week practicum in acute care on June 10 and my 5 week preceptorship in either acute or LTC on July 22. I finish my whole program on Aug 22. Once I enter the workforce and have some experience under my belt, I will have a much better idea of whether or not I will continue with nursing education. Even if I decide that I want to, it will be minimum 5 years before I would apply for the BSN program. Which would be another 3 years of school, plus upgrading. I'm almost 32 so I dont' know if I want to spend that much more time in school. I LOVE school, but I also have a family to support.

I just don't know yet. So far, I'm very happy with what I've learned in LPN school and may decide to be an LPN forever :)

pagandeva2000, LPN · May 30, 2008

One of the good things is that there are so many options, especially with the on line LPN to RN programs (if your state accepts them). There is no reason why a person has to be limited if they don't wish to be. Good luck to everyone, whether they choose to remain LPNs or go for the gusto!

rnmomtobe2010 · May 30, 2008

I would love to have LPN as a spetting stone for RN. I want more opportunities and the chance for advancement. As an LPN, going back for my RN should not be that hard but I know I will be in a situation where I can take my time and take one class at a time if I have to, especially if I work full time. Good luck with decisions!!!