Congrats! You’ve just finished your LPN college program, passed the CPNRE and are now ready to start working a real nursing job. As exciting as it might be, we don’t blame you if you’re feeling a bit nervous. A career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Alberta is both rewarding and demanding. Luckily, understanding the daily responsibilities and environment can help prospective students prepare for this fulfilling profession.
Keep reading to find out what you might expect each day as a fully-fledged LPN. Of course, you’ll want to expect some surprises as well; nursing is never a dull moment!
Starting the Shift: Preparation and Patient Assessment
Each shift begins with a comprehensive handover from the previous nursing team. LPNs review patient charts, noting any changes in condition or treatment plans. This initial assessment sets the foundation of your shift, outlining critical tasks and ensuring continuity of care.
Core Responsibilities: Direct Patient Care
LPNs provide hands-on care, including the following duties:
- Administering Medications: Dispensing prescribed medications and monitoring for side effects.
- Vital Signs Monitoring: Regularly checking and recording temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure.
- Wound Care: Cleaning, dressing, and monitoring wounds to prevent infection.
- Assisting with Daily Activities: Helping patients with mobility, bathing, dressing, and eating.
Collaborative Care: Teamwork in Healthcare Settings
LPNs work closely with Registered Nurses (RNs), physicians, care aides and other healthcare professionals. You most likely will report to a senior LPN or RN, while certain support staff may look to you for guidance. Knowing your role in the mosaic of the care team will ensure the best outcomes for patients.
Effective communication also enables cohesive patient care and the successful implementation of treatment plans. Be sure to ask questions when you are unsure of anything and always be ready to help patients that may look to you to ease their concerns.
Patient Advocacy and Education
Beyond physical care, LPNs educate patients and their families about health conditions and post-treatment care. They advocate for patients’ needs, ensuring their voices are heard in care decisions. LPNs will have more direct patient contact than many other members of the care team such as doctors, so it’s important you communicate their needs clearly as you understand the system better than they will.
Administrative Duties: Documentation and Coordination
Accurate documentation of patient information, treatment plans, and progress notes is essential. LPNs also coordinate with other departments to schedule tests, procedures, and consultations. You may do charting and other administrative tasks as well.
Work Environments: Diverse Settings
LPNs in Alberta can be found in various settings, including:
- Hospitals: Providing acute care across different departments.
- Long-Term Care Facilities: Assisting residents with chronic conditions.
- Clinics: Supporting outpatient services and minor procedures.
- Home Care: Delivering personalized care in patients’ homes.
End of Shift Duties
In Alberta, an LPN’s shift is usually over after 7.75 or 11.08 hours (depending on the contract). Before leaving, LPNs conduct final patient rounds, update records, and relay pertinent information to incoming staff during the shift changeover. Additionally, LPNs check that medical equipment is functioning properly and that supplies are replenished for the next shift.
Challenges and Rewards
The role is physically and emotionally demanding, requiring resilience and compassion. However, the opportunity to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives offers immense satisfaction. Remember, you will take the best care of others when you, yourself, feel taken care of.
Take time to prioritize your mental health, enjoy hobbies and find balance between work and life. When you find a sustainable routine, you can mitigate the risks of burnout and compassion fatigue to continue excelling in your role.
Considering a Career as an LPN?
If you’re inspired to pursue a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse, ABES College offers a comprehensive program that will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. Our curriculum combines theoretical instruction with practical, hands-on experience, preparing you for the diverse challenges of the healthcare field. Contact our admissions team today to learn more!