Professional Nurse Transition Paper

Words: 384
Pages: 2

It is a process to change your role from Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN). Once a LPN has completed their education, they will be overwhelmed with knowledge and a new set of skills. LPNs learn critical thinking in school but a RN will develop a deeper analytical and critical thinking skills. (Harrington and Terry, 2013, pg.54)
Cohen believed that once a LPN transitions to RN, there are four goals the student will identify with in professional role socialization (Harrington and Terry, 2013, pg.53):
1. Acquire technical and theoretical skills
2. Take on the values of the profession
3. Modify the professional role to one that is personally and professionally acceptable
4. Balance the professional role with other roles
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In the beginning it will be difficult to leave the role of a LPN and transition to an RN. William Bridges (2001) describes the transition as a letting go of the way things use to be and taking hold what is to become. (Harrington and Terry, 2013, pg.54)
The RN and LPN roles differ within the healthcare team. The LPN functions under the RNs guidance by providing direct patient care and having input regarding the patients assessment, planning, and evaluation of nursing care. (Americannurse)

According to Cohen in order for an LPN to achieve their goals as an RN, they will go through the four stages of Professional Development (Harrington and Terry, 2013, Pg.52):
• Stage 1: Unilateral Dependence – Student leans theoretical concepts
• Stage 2: Negativity/Independence – student will apply theory to practice
• Stage 3: Dependence/Mutuality – Student will begin to experience more realistic expectations

• Stage 4: Interdependence – Student will make independent judgments and take on professional role.
In my opinion in order for me to be a successful RN, I would have to leave my current job. I believe not only would it be hard for me to accept my new role as a RN , but also the people I work with. It would be important to remember that the LPN works directly under the RN and must report to me. That would definitely take getting use