Four Most Common Myths About LPNs
If you have a passion for taking care of others and would like to work in the medical field, a Licensed Practical Nurse, or LPN, position may be perfect for you. While researching a career as an LPN, you may hear a variety of negative things about this position. Fortunately, many of these so-called facts are nothing more than myths.
LPNs Are Simply Aspiring RNs
Perhaps the most common myth about LPNs is that LPNs are nothing more than nurses who want to become registered nurse, or RNs. While this may be true for some licensed practical nurses, not all LPNs view their positions as stepping stones to another career. Many LPNs are perfectly happy in their jobs and do not want the additional responsibilities of RNs.
A large majority of LPNs enjoy their work because it allows them to interact more with their assigned patients. As a result, they have a better opportunity to establish close relationships with their patients as well as their patients' family members. Additionally, many licensed practical nurses do not enjoy the administrative duties that are typically required of most RNs today.
You Need Extensive Training to Become an LPN
This is yet another myth. In fact, besides becoming a certified nursing assistant, becoming a licensed practical nurse is the quickest way to enter the nursing area of healthcare. In most cases, as a full-time LPN student, you can complete an LPN training program in only three semesters.
After your training, you will be able to take the licensing exam and obtain a license in practical nursing. Even if you enroll in a licensing exam prep course before taking the exam, you can still obtain your LPN license just a few months.
There Are Many Restrictions as to What an LPN Can Do
This is yet another highly ridiculous myth. LPNs and CNAs are some of the busiest nursing area professionals today. Speaking strictly of LPNs, these nursing professionals are responsible for a large variety of tasks that may vary from patient to patient and from day to day. Just some of the tasks you will be responsible for as an LPN include:
- Obtaining Blood Samples and Other Bodily Samples
- Collecting and Recording Patients' Vital Signs
- Administering Medications and Vaccinations
- Changing Dressings and Cleaning Wounds
- Administering First Aid and CPR
- Educating Patients and Family Members
- Administering IVs and Enemas
- Assisting Doctors During Exams and Treatments
LPNs Are Simply CNAs With Better Titles
This is another common myth. There are many differences between these two careers. For one thing, most certified nursing assistants have not had the training necessary to conduct such duties as administering medication, IVs, enemas, or vaccinations. Many CNAs are also not legally allowed to draw blood unless they have obtained phlebotomy certification. In short, while most certified nursing assistants are responsible for cleaning and personal care-related duties, LPNs are primarily responsible for tasks that involve basic healthcare.
