2 answers
Naomi
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
2
Questions
Asked
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What are the challenges and rewards of working as an LPN?
What are the challenges and rewards of working as an LPN?
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2 answers
Charanpreet Walia
Public Health Nurse
47
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Charanpreet’s Answer
Hello Naomi
As a registered nurse, I have had the pleasure of working with many LVNs or LPNs, and I'm excited to share with you the insights and experiences I've gained. It's important to remember that no job is perfect, and each state has its board of nursing guidelines, leading to variations in the scope of practice for LVNs.
Let us delve into the positives and rewards of being an LVN. With just 1-2 years of schooling, an LVN can embark on a fulfilling career in residential facilities, home health, schools, and clinics. Being an LVN opens up these possibilities if they have a passion for education and making a difference in the community. The LVNs can also work at the state or county level, administering vaccinations, providing health education, and even running a clinic as an LVN.
However, being an LVN comes with its own set of challenges. Depending on the state, options in hospital settings may be limited. LVNs may encounter high-acuity patient cases and be required to perform CNA-level duties, handle more patients, and face a glass ceiling regarding career progression and salary. While there are contract agencies that offer good pay, the benefits may be less comprehensive.
Despite these challenges, the LVNs I have worked with have been incredibly competent and compassionate. It's important to note that many LVNs have found themselves in a position where they have had to work for 20+ years without significant opportunities for career advancement or increased earnings unless they take on extra shifts or pursue further education to become RNs. Unfortunately, many LVNs have also faced job insecurity during hospital restructuring, where more RNs were hired, leading to layoffs.
As a registered nurse, I have had the pleasure of working with many LVNs or LPNs, and I'm excited to share with you the insights and experiences I've gained. It's important to remember that no job is perfect, and each state has its board of nursing guidelines, leading to variations in the scope of practice for LVNs.
Let us delve into the positives and rewards of being an LVN. With just 1-2 years of schooling, an LVN can embark on a fulfilling career in residential facilities, home health, schools, and clinics. Being an LVN opens up these possibilities if they have a passion for education and making a difference in the community. The LVNs can also work at the state or county level, administering vaccinations, providing health education, and even running a clinic as an LVN.
However, being an LVN comes with its own set of challenges. Depending on the state, options in hospital settings may be limited. LVNs may encounter high-acuity patient cases and be required to perform CNA-level duties, handle more patients, and face a glass ceiling regarding career progression and salary. While there are contract agencies that offer good pay, the benefits may be less comprehensive.
Despite these challenges, the LVNs I have worked with have been incredibly competent and compassionate. It's important to note that many LVNs have found themselves in a position where they have had to work for 20+ years without significant opportunities for career advancement or increased earnings unless they take on extra shifts or pursue further education to become RNs. Unfortunately, many LVNs have also faced job insecurity during hospital restructuring, where more RNs were hired, leading to layoffs.
Molly R.
Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer
19
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Molly’s Answer
LPN positions are phasing out in the hospital urban settings if that is what you are looking for.
They are still needed in long term care facilities which is a growing business.
They are still needed in long term care facilities which is a growing business.