Question

Describe what it means to you to be a professional nurse. How do professional nursing standards and behaviors shape the work of nursing?

Answer 1

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are generally considered as professional nurses in many states. LPNs usually provide more basic nursing care and are responsible for the comfort of the patient. Registered nurses (RNs) on the other hand, primarily administer medication, treatments, and offer educational advice to patients and the public.

A. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):

1. Education: LPN's are completed an accredited practical nursing program which usually takes about one year to complete. Courses usually combine academia in nursing, biology, pharmacology and in addition to supervised clinical experiences.

2. Licensing / certification: After completing practical nursing course from a state-approved program, they will receive a certification in practical nursing. Once it is completed and later they take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) in order to obtain a license and be able to work as an LPN.

3. Pay: The median salary for an LPN is about $42,490.

4. LPN Job Duties:

Responsible for asses, plan, implement and evaluate nursing carrier.

LPN Work (clinical and non-clinical):

Direct care: Acute care, continuing care, community settings.

Education: In practical nurse program or in health care settings.

Research: Involved in research at clinical level.

Administration: Many non-traditional roles available today.

LPN’s are responsible and accountable for their own practice.

LPN’s are expected to follow the standards and guidelines of their profession.

Restricted activities a nurse consents to supervise.

Make decisions about invasive producers and other care that requires nursing judgments.

Provide consultation and guidance.

To inert or remove instruments, devices, fingers and hands.

LPN must maintain effective communication with the HCA.

Administer medications (not IV in most States)

Chart medical records

Change wound dressings

Collect specimens such as blood and urine

Insert and caring for urinary catheters

Care for patients with ventilators and tracheostomy tubes

Insert and caring for patients with nasogastric tubes

Provide feedings through nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes

Execute a nursing care plan formulated by a Registered Nurse (RN)