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“ RN Means Real Nurse”: Perceptions of Being a “Real” Nurse in a Post‐ LPN – BN Bridging Program
Author(s) -
Janzen Katherine J.,
Melrose Sherri,
Gordon Kathryn,
Miller Jean
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
nursing forum
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.618
H-Index - 36
eISSN - 1744-6198
pISSN - 0029-6473
DOI - 10.1111/nuf.12026
Subject(s) - bridging (networking) , nursing , psychology , medicine , computer science , computer network
Purpose Explore the perceptions of licensed practical nurses ( LPNs ) in a post‐ LPN–BN bridging program related to the label “real nurse.” Conclusions The labels that LPNs are given significantly impact them. As LPNs progress through the post‐ LPN–BN program, they take on new and more empowering labels. Practice Implications Seeing and celebrating both LPNs and registered nurses as “real nurses” may assist in healing the rift that has been present between registered nurses and LPNs for almost 50 years. Nursing may be better served by replacing the label “real nurse” with a label that all nurses can aspire to—that of an exemplary nurse.