As a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), I have encountered two significant challenges due to the limitations of my scope of practice, which motivated my transition to the RPN to RN program at Trent University.
The first challenge lies in the restrictions on independent decision-making, especially in complex care scenarios. As an RPN, I often collaborate with Registered Nurses (RNs) or physicians for critical care decisions, particularly in acute settings. One day I was managing patients with rapidly changing conditions, which requires advanced assessment skills and autonomy that extend beyond my scope of practice. Research by Lalonde and Hallman (2019) highlights that while RPNs play a crucial role in healthcare, they often feel constrained by their limited authority in care planning and interventions, which can hinder timely decision-making in urgent situations.
The second challenge is the limited opportunities for leadership roles and specialized practice. RPNs are typically assigned to less complex cases and may not have access to advanced practice roles in areas like critical care, pediatrics, etc. This limitation restricts my professional growth and the ability to contribute at a higher level to patient care. There was a situation where there was code blue on my night shift and I couldn’t render great help beyond my scope of practice. The studies show that RNs are more likely to assume leadership positions and participate in specialized training due to their broader scope of practice and advanced education (O’Rourke et al., 2017). This discrepancy can create frustration for RPNs seeking to expand their impact within the healthcare system.
These challenges underscored the importance of transitioning to the RN role to expand my scope of practice and develop the competencies necessary to address complex care needs and assume leadership roles. The RPN to RN program at Trent University aligns with my desire to overcome these limitations by providing advanced education in critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and clinical decision-making.
By transitioning to an RN, I aim to bridge these gaps, enabling me to practice autonomously, contribute to complex care planning, and take on leadership responsibilities. This journey represents not only professional growth but also a commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
