If you’re an LPN or an LVN, you’ve probably encountered this problem before: clueless people who don’t understand your title. They think you’re not smart enough or ambitious enough to be a “real nurse.” They assume you won’t be able to answer their questions. They don’t respect the time you’ve invested in earning your title. And they’re completely unaware that you perform many of the same exact job duties as the RNs on your team.
How can you deal with an RN vs. LPN mentality and the lack of appreciation? Here are four suggestions:
- Patiently explain your role.
The RN vs LPN difference isn’t common knowledge. It’s possible that someone doubts your ability because he doesn’t realize the word “nurse” is actually included in the LPN/LVN abbreviation. If you have the time and the inclination, go ahead and explain the coursework you completed in order to earn your LPN. Explain how your knowledge and job duties overlap with registered nurses’ knowledge and job duties. Be friendly, but firm. You shouldn’t have to flash your resume every time you take someone’s pulse. But usually a quick explanation is enough to satisfy a concerned patient.
- Report bad behavior.
Whether it’s coming from patients or coworkers (e.g. RNs with a superiority complex), you should report any comments or actions that cross the line from ignorance to abuse. Talk to your supervisor about any remarks that make you feel uncomfortable or put a strain on your working relationships. Be sure these incidents are documented, so there is a record to support your claims. You can also ask your HR administrator to go over your rights and responsibilities as a healthcare employee.
- Consider a new place of employment.
Nursing is hard enough without having to fight against colleagues, who should be supporting you. If you’re up against LPN discrimination from more than one or two individuals, it may be that your workplace has a dysfunctional culture. Sometimes bad management/poor leadership can create tensions and rivalries among coworkers (e.g. RN vs LPN). When people don’t feel recognized or secure in their jobs, they look for ways to discredit those around them. If this sounds like your facility, don’t wait around to see who wins the war. Start surfing the job boards.
- Advance your career.
Going back to school is something you should do for yourself and your family. But if you feel like you’re especially sensitive to LPN discrimination, it may be an internal expectation that you’re not satisfying. Maybe your nursing education was cut short but unplanned personal events. Maybe you always wanted to be a particular nurse specialist, but lacked the confidence to pursue an RN/BSN. There’s nothing wrong with a lifelong career as an LPN unless your heart is set on something else. And if it is, you may be the one who’s frowning on your LPN title.
For more information, contact Acheive Test Prep, or visit http://www.achievetestprep.com/blog.
