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jamal
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
3
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how would you describe being a LPN (Licensed practical nurse) ??
what is it like ?
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5 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6333
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jamal!
Description of Being a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Overview of the Role Being a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) involves providing basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. LPNs are essential members of the healthcare team, often working in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and private homes. Their responsibilities include monitoring patients’ health, administering medications, assisting with daily living activities, and maintaining patient records.
Daily Responsibilities The daily tasks of an LPN can vary significantly depending on the work environment. Common duties include:
Patient Care: LPNs provide direct care to patients by checking vital signs (such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse), helping with personal hygiene, feeding patients who need assistance, and ensuring comfort.
Medication Administration: They are responsible for administering prescribed medications and observing patients for side effects or adverse reactions.
Documentation: Accurate record-keeping is crucial in nursing. LPNs document patient information and care provided in medical records to ensure continuity of care.
Collaboration with Healthcare Team: LPNs work closely with RNs and physicians to develop and implement patient care plans. They communicate changes in patients’ conditions to the supervising nurse or doctor.
Patient Education: Educating patients about their health conditions and post-treatment care is also part of an LPN’s role.
Work Environment LPNs can work in a variety of settings that influence their daily experiences:
Hospitals: In this fast-paced environment, LPNs may work in different departments such as emergency rooms or surgical units.
Long-term Care Facilities: Many LPNs find employment in nursing homes or assisted living facilities where they provide ongoing care for elderly residents.
Home Health Care: Some LPNs visit patients at home to provide necessary medical care and support.
Each setting presents unique challenges and rewards; for instance, hospital work may involve more acute care situations while long-term care focuses on chronic conditions.
Skills Required To be successful as an LPN, certain skills are essential:
Clinical Skills: Proficiency in basic nursing procedures such as wound care, catheter insertion, and IV therapy.
Communication Skills: Effective communication with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals is critical for delivering quality care.
Compassionate Caregiving: Empathy towards patients enhances their comfort level during treatment.
Critical Thinking: The ability to assess situations quickly and make informed decisions is vital in providing safe patient care.
Time Management: Managing multiple tasks efficiently while prioritizing patient needs is crucial due to the often busy nature of healthcare environments.
Job Outlook The job outlook for LPNs remains positive due to an aging population that requires more medical attention and long-term care services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for LPNs is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
In summary, being an LPN is a rewarding yet demanding profession that requires a blend of technical skills, compassion, and effective communication abilities. It offers diverse opportunities across various healthcare settings while playing a critical role in patient care delivery.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides comprehensive data on job outlook projections for various professions including licensed practical nurses.
National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN): Offers resources related to education standards, professional development opportunities, and advocacy for LPNs.
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): Supplies information regarding nursing education pathways including those leading to becoming an LPN as well as insights into nursing roles within healthcare systems.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Description of Being a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Overview of the Role Being a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) involves providing basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and doctors. LPNs are essential members of the healthcare team, often working in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and private homes. Their responsibilities include monitoring patients’ health, administering medications, assisting with daily living activities, and maintaining patient records.
Daily Responsibilities The daily tasks of an LPN can vary significantly depending on the work environment. Common duties include:
Patient Care: LPNs provide direct care to patients by checking vital signs (such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse), helping with personal hygiene, feeding patients who need assistance, and ensuring comfort.
Medication Administration: They are responsible for administering prescribed medications and observing patients for side effects or adverse reactions.
Documentation: Accurate record-keeping is crucial in nursing. LPNs document patient information and care provided in medical records to ensure continuity of care.
Collaboration with Healthcare Team: LPNs work closely with RNs and physicians to develop and implement patient care plans. They communicate changes in patients’ conditions to the supervising nurse or doctor.
Patient Education: Educating patients about their health conditions and post-treatment care is also part of an LPN’s role.
Work Environment LPNs can work in a variety of settings that influence their daily experiences:
Hospitals: In this fast-paced environment, LPNs may work in different departments such as emergency rooms or surgical units.
Long-term Care Facilities: Many LPNs find employment in nursing homes or assisted living facilities where they provide ongoing care for elderly residents.
Home Health Care: Some LPNs visit patients at home to provide necessary medical care and support.
Each setting presents unique challenges and rewards; for instance, hospital work may involve more acute care situations while long-term care focuses on chronic conditions.
Skills Required To be successful as an LPN, certain skills are essential:
Clinical Skills: Proficiency in basic nursing procedures such as wound care, catheter insertion, and IV therapy.
Communication Skills: Effective communication with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals is critical for delivering quality care.
Compassionate Caregiving: Empathy towards patients enhances their comfort level during treatment.
Critical Thinking: The ability to assess situations quickly and make informed decisions is vital in providing safe patient care.
Time Management: Managing multiple tasks efficiently while prioritizing patient needs is crucial due to the often busy nature of healthcare environments.
Job Outlook The job outlook for LPNs remains positive due to an aging population that requires more medical attention and long-term care services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for LPNs is projected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
In summary, being an LPN is a rewarding yet demanding profession that requires a blend of technical skills, compassion, and effective communication abilities. It offers diverse opportunities across various healthcare settings while playing a critical role in patient care delivery.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides comprehensive data on job outlook projections for various professions including licensed practical nurses.
National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN): Offers resources related to education standards, professional development opportunities, and advocacy for LPNs.
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): Supplies information regarding nursing education pathways including those leading to becoming an LPN as well as insights into nursing roles within healthcare systems.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
James Constantine, thank you!
jamal
thank you God bless
jamal
GOD BLESS YOU MORE!
James Constantine Frangos
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
188
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
A Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) plays a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing patient care and support under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. Here’s an overview of the job responsibilities, work environment, and what it’s like to be an RPN:
Job Responsibilities
Patient Care:
Administer medications and treatments as prescribed.
Monitor patient conditions, including vital signs, to assess their health status.
Assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding patients.
Collaboration:
Work alongside healthcare teams, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, to develop and implement patient care plans.
Communicate effectively with patients, families, and team members regarding care and treatment options.
Documentation:
Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, including assessments, care provided, and patient responses to treatment.
Report any changes in patient conditions to the supervising nurse or physician.
Patient Education:
Educate patients and their families about health conditions, medications, and self-care techniques.
Provide guidance on lifestyle changes and preventative health measures.
Infection Control:
Follow protocols to prevent infections and ensure a safe environment for patients.
Participate in cleaning and maintenance of medical equipment and patient areas.
Work Environment
Settings: RPNs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and community health organizations.
Shifts: They often work in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, especially in hospitals or facilities that operate 24/7.
Team Dynamics: RPNs are integral members of healthcare teams, collaborating closely with RNs and other health professionals.
What It’s Like to Be an RPN
Rewarding Experience: Many RPNs find their work fulfilling due to the direct impact they have on patients' lives and wellbeing. Building relationships with patients and their families is often one of the most rewarding aspects.
Challenges: The role can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring resilience and the ability to manage stress. RPNs may encounter challenging situations, such as dealing with difficult patients or families, and may be required to respond to emergencies.
Continuous Learning: The field of nursing is constantly evolving, and RPNs must stay updated on new treatments, medications, and best practices. Continuing education is often required to maintain licensure.
Autonomy with Support: While RPNs have a good level of autonomy in patient care, they work under the guidance of RNs and physicians, getting support when needed. This collaborative environment helps foster professional growth.
Varied Responsibilities: RPNs may perform a wide range of tasks depending on their work setting, from clinical to administrative responsibilities. This variety can make the job interesting and dynamic.
Being a Registered Practical Nurse involves a blend of patient care, teamwork, and ongoing learning. It is a significant role that requires compassion, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to patient-centered care. The experience can vary greatly depending on the work environment and patient population, but overall, RPNs play an essential role in delivering healthcare services.
Job Responsibilities
Patient Care:
Administer medications and treatments as prescribed.
Monitor patient conditions, including vital signs, to assess their health status.
Assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding patients.
Collaboration:
Work alongside healthcare teams, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, to develop and implement patient care plans.
Communicate effectively with patients, families, and team members regarding care and treatment options.
Documentation:
Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, including assessments, care provided, and patient responses to treatment.
Report any changes in patient conditions to the supervising nurse or physician.
Patient Education:
Educate patients and their families about health conditions, medications, and self-care techniques.
Provide guidance on lifestyle changes and preventative health measures.
Infection Control:
Follow protocols to prevent infections and ensure a safe environment for patients.
Participate in cleaning and maintenance of medical equipment and patient areas.
Work Environment
Settings: RPNs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and community health organizations.
Shifts: They often work in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, especially in hospitals or facilities that operate 24/7.
Team Dynamics: RPNs are integral members of healthcare teams, collaborating closely with RNs and other health professionals.
What It’s Like to Be an RPN
Rewarding Experience: Many RPNs find their work fulfilling due to the direct impact they have on patients' lives and wellbeing. Building relationships with patients and their families is often one of the most rewarding aspects.
Challenges: The role can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring resilience and the ability to manage stress. RPNs may encounter challenging situations, such as dealing with difficult patients or families, and may be required to respond to emergencies.
Continuous Learning: The field of nursing is constantly evolving, and RPNs must stay updated on new treatments, medications, and best practices. Continuing education is often required to maintain licensure.
Autonomy with Support: While RPNs have a good level of autonomy in patient care, they work under the guidance of RNs and physicians, getting support when needed. This collaborative environment helps foster professional growth.
Varied Responsibilities: RPNs may perform a wide range of tasks depending on their work setting, from clinical to administrative responsibilities. This variety can make the job interesting and dynamic.
Being a Registered Practical Nurse involves a blend of patient care, teamwork, and ongoing learning. It is a significant role that requires compassion, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to patient-centered care. The experience can vary greatly depending on the work environment and patient population, but overall, RPNs play an essential role in delivering healthcare services.
Godfrey Magawe
Clinical officer nephrology
121
Answers
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
Updated
Godfrey’s Answer
LPN are licensed practicing nursing course that can take 2-3 year of training.
They are thereafter being licensed to practice nursing.
There is a lot of employment opportunities for them.
One can also pursue Bachelor in nursing degree after graduation with LPN...as a starting point.
They are thereafter being licensed to practice nursing.
There is a lot of employment opportunities for them.
One can also pursue Bachelor in nursing degree after graduation with LPN...as a starting point.
Sylvia Mum
Registered Nurse
37
Answers
Ashburn, Virginia
Updated
Sylvia’s Answer
Hello Jamal
I am copying this from your previous question.
What does an LPN do daily? A lot!!!!! The duties depend on where you work. That depends on where you work. You could work in offices, urgent care, nursing homes, assisted living, group homes, hospitals, schools, home health or government.
If you work in urgent care or doctors offices, you do the same kind of work as the RNs. You probably have a medical assistant to do the vitals. You may have to do phlebotomy work. You may need to take the patient's histories. You may have to give some injections.
If you are in the nursing home, you probably have more authority. LPNs and RNs are the primary decisionmakers on the floor in nursing homes. A lot of LPNs are Nurse Managers and directors in nursing homes and assisted living. You will give medications, do treatments and wounds, do tube feedings, suction tracheostomies, supervise all the CNAs, Supervise anything happening to the patients. You will put in orders, change orders, check on all vitals to make sure your patients are ok, talk to providers if they are not, call 911 and send them to the hospital if they have a problem, organize activities, and manage your unit.
If in the hospital, an LPN has different roles depending on the hospital. Some hospitals give the LPN an assignment with her patients. But she is limited with a few medications, for example, she may not start a blood transfusion but may have to call an RN to start a blood transfusion with her. She may not push medication, but she can hang medication. Others use LPNs for high task areas like cardiac where there are a lot of laboratory results like troponin needed often. Others take on LPNs in roles like resource IV/phlebotomy nurses. If you are in a state like Texas, LPNs do most of the same stuff as RNs. Each state has what licensed personnel are allowed to do.
If you are in home health, you may have up to 9 patients and drive from one home to another doing 'assessments' and treatments. You may also choose to just sit with one patient all day and give them their meds. You may choose to work at a school. This may involve picking up a patient from home, then sitting with them in the classroom.
I hope this helps.
0
Your answer to this question:
Your answer
I am copying this from your previous question.
What does an LPN do daily? A lot!!!!! The duties depend on where you work. That depends on where you work. You could work in offices, urgent care, nursing homes, assisted living, group homes, hospitals, schools, home health or government.
If you work in urgent care or doctors offices, you do the same kind of work as the RNs. You probably have a medical assistant to do the vitals. You may have to do phlebotomy work. You may need to take the patient's histories. You may have to give some injections.
If you are in the nursing home, you probably have more authority. LPNs and RNs are the primary decisionmakers on the floor in nursing homes. A lot of LPNs are Nurse Managers and directors in nursing homes and assisted living. You will give medications, do treatments and wounds, do tube feedings, suction tracheostomies, supervise all the CNAs, Supervise anything happening to the patients. You will put in orders, change orders, check on all vitals to make sure your patients are ok, talk to providers if they are not, call 911 and send them to the hospital if they have a problem, organize activities, and manage your unit.
If in the hospital, an LPN has different roles depending on the hospital. Some hospitals give the LPN an assignment with her patients. But she is limited with a few medications, for example, she may not start a blood transfusion but may have to call an RN to start a blood transfusion with her. She may not push medication, but she can hang medication. Others use LPNs for high task areas like cardiac where there are a lot of laboratory results like troponin needed often. Others take on LPNs in roles like resource IV/phlebotomy nurses. If you are in a state like Texas, LPNs do most of the same stuff as RNs. Each state has what licensed personnel are allowed to do.
If you are in home health, you may have up to 9 patients and drive from one home to another doing 'assessments' and treatments. You may also choose to just sit with one patient all day and give them their meds. You may choose to work at a school. This may involve picking up a patient from home, then sitting with them in the classroom.
I hope this helps.
0
Your answer to this question:
Your answer
This was super helpful, thank you!
jamal
Nicole Crowder
Nurse Practitioner
18
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Hello,
I would say as an LVN the pay will ALWAYS be less than your counterparts (RN) but you will primarily do the same job. That’s it in a nutshell.
I would say as an LVN the pay will ALWAYS be less than your counterparts (RN) but you will primarily do the same job. That’s it in a nutshell.
This was super helpful, thank you!
jamal