• E-mail
• Print
• RSS

Weekly Q&A: Involving LPNs on the journey

HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*, October 17, 2006

This week, a reader seeks advice about LPNs' feelings toward their involvement in the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® (MRP) journey. Read the response below from our advisor, Gina Boring, BSN, RN, MRP project coordinator at Aultman Health Foundation in Canton, OH.

Q: In the small department where I work, we have LPNs and RNs. As we continue on our journey to designation, there have been some feelings of inequity. How can we address this sentiment?

A: It is true that the Forces of Magnetism and the Sources of Evidence are focused on how the RN is professionally developed and supported, but your LPN population contributes to your patient outcomes.

If your organization utilizes LPNs in the skill mix, ensure they are practicing within their scope of practice and that both the RNs and LPNs are abiding by the rules of delegation as outlined by your State Board of Nursing. Find ways to include your LPNs in the MRP journey, just as you can include the entire interdisciplinary team. Encourage their professional development, and talk with them about it. When your organization achieves designation, consider holding a pinning ceremony for every RN and LPN within the organization.

• E-mail to a Colleague
• Print
• RSS
• Archive