4 Common Misconceptions About LPNs
If you’re considering a career in healthcare as a is one of the fastest routes you can take to becoming a nurse, not all aspiring LPNs consider the job as simply a stepping stone to becoming a registered nurse (RN). Many recognize the value of LPN training as a way to fulfill a lifelong dream of starting a thriving career in healthcare while contributing in a meaningful way to their community. The best part is that it takes a lot less time to achieve all this compared to pursuing a four-year bachelors degree in nursing.
The LPN program at HCI, for example, can be completed in around 12 months. Combine that shorter yet comprehensive training period with earning potential, which the (BLS) pegs at over $47,000 per year, and you can see why people recognize LPN programs as more than just a temporary stop to becoming an RN.
2. LPNs Arent Real Nurses
Despite having different titles, RNs and LPNs are both legitimate professions that fall under the umbrella of nursing. There are fundamental differences in the overall scope of practice between both fields, however. These usually vary depending on which state youre practicing in and your employer. However, these shouldnt, by any means, discount the importance and relevance of their individual tasks.
LPNs perform a lot of important nursing duties that allow them to demonstrate their theoretical and clinical skills and quick decision-making abilities. This highlights the fact that LPNs are more than just assistants. Additionally, ongoing hands-on experience adds to their learned skills.
Quite simply, LPNs are bona fide nurses who play a critical role in patient treatment and care.
3. There Are Limited Opportunities for LPNs
The BLS projects LPN positions to increase by 9% from 2019 to 2029, a rate that translates to roughly 65,700 additional LPNs during that period.
Like other roles in healthcare, LPN careers can advance with experience and seniority. LPNs can also opt to pursue post-licensure certifications across various other fields in healthcare such as long-term care or pharmacology. You can also choose to expand your scope of practice through supplemental nursing education.
4. LPNs Play Less Important Roles in the Medical World
This is a common misconception that couldnt be further from the truth. No matter what your role or title is, every single member of a healthcare team serves a specific purpose and role in patient care. This includes LPNs, whose expertise, training, and experience are valuable assets to their employers and their overall patient care strategy.
It doesnt matter if youre an RN or LPN, both require the same level of diligence, intelligence, and dedication. Like similar professions in healthcare, they are required to pass stringent licensing exams and earn their certifications. Their performance in the workplace will demonstrate their competence as a professional nurse, regardless of their title.
Bottom Line
The role of an LPN is important and highly valued in-patient care. Becoming an LPNwhether you are indeed doing it as a stepping stone towards becoming an RN or to start a thriving career as a nurseallows you to make a living doing what you love while making a real difference in patients lives.
