At Parkview, we’re constantly considering process improvements to make the patient experience as positive as possible. One example of this is a new staffing model that pairs registered nurses (RNs) with licensed practical nurses (LPNs). We asked one of these collaborative duos, Damaris Coelho RN, BSN, and Jasmyn Justice, LPN, to share more about these positions and how the approach benefits those we serve.
How long have you worked in this collaborative role?
Damaris: I have been working in this collaborative role since January 2023 when our unit started piloting the RN/LPN team nursing model.
Jasmyn: I have been working in this role since starting at Parkview in January of this year. I was the first LPN hired on day shift on my unit, so I was trained by an RN. Once I completed a couple of months of orientation, we transitioned to the current model.
What are the key differences between an LPN and an RN?
Damaris: The key differences between an RN and LPN are levels of education and scope of practice. Both roles require the nurse to hold a license. Parkview has created a list that details the tasks that can or cannot be performed in these roles, available through unit educators.
Jasmyn: The key difference between an LPN and RN is the amount of school and certain skills that are able to be performed within their scope. Both roles are nurses who are educated at a high level.
How do your roles complement each other?
Damaris: The roles of the RN and LPN complement one another nicely. Being able to work as a team allows us to efficiently care for our patients.
Jasmyn: Our roles complement each other very well in the manner of working together to give our patients the best care possible. The skills that I’m not able to perform under my scope of practice, the RN is able to do. It is a team effort.
How does having LPNs and RNs working together benefit our patients?
Damaris: It gives them a team of healthcare professionals caring for them and allows us the opportunity to care for our patients in a timelier manner.
Jasmyn: With an LPN and RN pair, if one of us is in another room, the other is able to provide care and attention to another patient.
How does having LPNs and RNs working together benefit you as professionals?
Damaris: It allows me to better care for my patients. It also allows me the opportunity to grow as a healthcare professional by putting into practice my leadership and delegation skills.
Jasmyn: When working alongside another nurse, it’s beneficial to bounce ideas off each other. It is easier to problem-solve with another person as opposed to doing so by yourself.
What are the biggest benefits of this team model?
Damaris: I believe it’s the ability to provide timely care for patients and the collaboration of skills and experience that comes with having two nurses working together.
Jasmyn: Being a new grad, having another nurse working alongside you is a huge benefit. For me, it eased my nerves knowing I had another person with me on the floor. This team model supports more efficient care for each patient as well.
Join the team!
We’re always looking for exceptional caregivers to become part of Team Parkview. To learn more about nursing careers and benefits, visit parkview.com/nursing. To view all of our current career opportunities, visit us here.
