Licensed Practical Nurse Workforce in New Jersey as Described by LPNs and Employers

Background

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are essential members of the nursing workforce in the United States. The growing aging population has led to an increased need for healthcare in settings where LPNs work. In many states, including New Jersey (NJ), the LPN roles and job functions in today’s healthcare organizations have not been examined.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to gain an understanding of the current practice of LPNs in NJ by describing and comparing the perceptions of LPNs and LPN employers about their roles and job functions across settings.

Methods

For this qualitative descriptive study, 10 LPN focus groups were held and 17 employers who hire LPNs were interviewed regarding their perspectives of the LPN role.

Results

Two common themes emerged from the focus groups with LPNs and the interviews with LPN employers: (a) uncertainty exists regarding the future of LPNs and (b) LPNs need more hands-on experience. Additional themes from LPN focus groups were that (a) LPNs question what they should do, can do, and will do; (b) LPNs are stuck in their role; and (c) LPNs pray they make it through their shift. Themes that emerged from employer interviews were that (a) RNs and LPNs are pretty much interchangeable and (b) LPNs make economic “cents.”

Conclusion

Our findings reveal that LPNs in NJ have expanded their role, contributing to role confusion. Although state nurse practice acts and regulations should drive LPN practice, organizational policies often dictate how scope of practice is applied. To ensure a clear understanding of the LPN role and scope of practice, discussions regarding the nurse practice act should be conducted at the state level with the board of nursing and in practice settings.