What Moves You?

"We have to do something about this, Tom. We have to get LPNs more involved."

The conversation I recently had with a state board of nursing member wasn't the first time I heard such a desperate plea. Why aren't LPNs joining more nursing associations? Why aren't they challenging their state's board of nursing regarding issues that involve their scope of practice? I hope you don't shoot the messenger here, but I feel it's important to relay what some LPN leaders are saying about you.

LPN organizations struggle to get members, and when an issue affects an LPN's scope of practice, all other interested parties - RNs, long-term care administrators, educators, etc. - make sure their voices are heard. However, too often, LPNs are nowhere to be found.

So the question I ask is, "What moves you to act and take a stand for your job and your profession?" If you don't like the way an organization is run, why not join and try to encourage change? If a board issue involves your job and how you'll practice over the next 10 years, make sure your voice is heard during the comment period. If you hear talk about eliminating a PN school, stand up and let everyone know how your PN education has helped you make valuable contributions to the health and well-being of your community.

This is your life, this is your career. You work hard and you're proud of being a licensed practical nurse ... So, what will move you to let others know who you are?

-Tom Kerr, editor