Developing an LPN Transition to Practice Program to Support the Changing Nursing Landscape

Abstract

Background: Hospitals are adjusting and changing care delivery models by adding Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) back to acute care due to the RN (Registered Nurse) nursing shortage. As this landscape and care delivery model changes, it is important to ensure there are resources in place to help support nursing teams. Many organizations have programs in place to help support RN’s as they transition into practice or referred to a nurse residency program. A Pennsylvania hospital recognized the need to add an LPN transition to the practice program to support new nurses as they transition into the acute care setting. Methods: A program was created, developed, and piloted to help support new graduate LPN’s transitioning into acute care to help support and guide them. The program was piloted for 6 months with a variety of learning experiences: shadowing experiences, content experts, simulation, and mentorship. Results: The program has proven to be successful, and an avenue was created for new graduate LPNs to feel supported during their initial months in the hospital by providing them with knowledge to develop from novice to competent nurses. Conclusion: It is important for hospitals to have support for nursing professional development opportunities for LPN’s as they transition to acute care nursing models.