So a couple weeks ago I renewed my license as a LPN, oh my. Did I think I would be pursuing my RN at this point yes am I at that starting point mostly. I learned a whole lot in the last three years as being a LPN. I have learned that I am not valued as being a real nurse because I'm not an RN but, true be told I know that I'm smarter than some of that RNs that I worked with because I have life experience behind me and critical thinking skills that cannot be taught in school. I know when to trust my gut instinct and listen to patients when others tell them, "oh you are just imaging things." I have been that LPN being there holding their hand and saying it's okay if you're ready, you are cared and loved to let go. I have been there to tell the family members that their family member was loved and cared for and did not die alone but again, I less valued because I'm a LPN. I love my patients, residents, second family, however people want to refer to them as but, I'm truly tired of not being taken seriously because I'm a LPN and not RN in that I don't have a degree I'm not as important but, most LPNs especially those that go through a BOCES program in NYS learn as just as much if not than equal to those RNs who receive ADN in NYS. I learned what most ADN RNs in 2 yrs, I learned in 11 months just without labs for A&P and microbiology. I have lost count of how many people have mistaken me as being an RN because of how well-rounded and educated I am as a LPN. And well that should make me proud it doesn't, it makes me sad because as soon as they realize I'm a LPN, the next question for me, cis when are you going to go for your RN." Why is it that a LPN on can't be viewed as being educated and well-rounded as an RN? We're both nurses we just have different scopes of practice. I'm moving forward to get my RN because that my choice in that I want to travel and know that as a LPN I will be limited. But truly wish that this state in particular would stop underestimating LPNs because we are smart, competent, and well-rounded nurses.
