As with many careers, there are numerous myths surrounding LPN, or Licensed Practical Nurse. While some of these myths are obviously not true, many others remain solidified as fact simply because they make sense. If you’re interested in becoming an LPN, then it’s important that you hold a solid understanding as to what this profession actually consists of. Much like any other nursing discipline, failure to separate fact from fiction could not only result in improper training, but potentially disastrous consequences when working on the job.
The following myths are some of the most common misconceptions when it comes to working as an LPN in any clinical setting. While this isn’t a conclusive list, after browsing you’ll hold a much stronger, and truer, definition of what life as a Licensed Practical Nurse is actually like. Without further ado, let’s dive into the realness of working as an LPN.
Myth #1 | LPNs Are Glorified Receptionists
This is not only untrue, but extremely disrespectful to the millions of women and men throughout the United States who make untold sacrifices each and every day. Not only is this an unfair assumption, but it also has the potential to cause serious harm in a medical setting.
Not only is a Licensed Practical Nurse an actual nurse, but this role plays an integral part in the entire nursing process. In many cases, those working as an LPN are on their way to becoming a Registered Nurse, which is known as a lateral move. Regardless, LPNs can only perform this job after successfully completing a rigorous training program and passing a national licensure examination, which is known as the NCLEX-PN.
Myth #2 | LPN Job Responsibilities Are Limited and Easy
If this was true, then why would every state in America require an LPN to undergo rigorous training and pass an exhausting licensing examination? Truth is, working as an LPN is quite stressful. Along with administering a variety of patent care tasks, these medical professional serve as a vital lifeline between all nurses and even physicians. For many new LPNs, they weren’t fully aware of the demands and levels of responsibilities that this position requires. While an LPN doesn’t have the same scope of practice as a Registered Nurse, Physicians Assistant or an actual Physician, they are responsible for absorbing immense amounts of information and ensuring the functionality of patient-to-staff communication is as fluent as possible.
Myth #3 | LPNs Can Only Work in Nursing Homes
This is an unfair myth for many reasons. However, the biggest damage that this myth causes is hindering those who would be amazing nurses from ever undergoing training. While it’s true that many nursing homes hire Licensed Practical Nurses, they are not the only employer for this dynamic career. In fact, nursing homes are only one of many medical facilities who regularly hire new and experienced LPNs. For example, you can find these nurse professionals working in hospitals, specialty clinics, schools and even in government agencies. Need more proof? Spend a few minutes searching current job openings on any leading online job board. You’ll quickly understand how versatile this career path actually is.
