INVESTIGATE:
In unit one we got to know each other a little better and began our inquiry process into professional practice for LPNs by exploring the philosophy of constructivism. We examined ourselves and how this philosophy will influence us today and in the future as students and nurses.
In unit two we expanded our awareness on what caring really means and how we can carry out the knowledge, skills, judgment and attitude associated with this. In this unit we are going to be examining the history of practical nursing and then look at the concept of leadership.
Let's start with the history of practical nursing.
The practical nurse act was passed in BC in 1951 and since then there have been many significant changes to practice and education of practical nurses. In this unit I would like you to go to the CLPNBC website and look for the historical timelines of the evolution of practical nurses in BC. It should be noted that while this timeline only goes until 2008 there have many changes since then! One of the most significant changes has happened in 2012 when practical nursing education moved from a certificate program to a two year diploma.
INVESTIGATE:
Go to the CLPNBC website [www.clpnbc.org]
Read the section 'History of LPNs in BC & Canada' located under the 'What is an LPN' tab
Leadership is one of those larger concepts that have a lot of very intricate components. One of the types of leadership we will explore comes from within. Have you ever heard anyone say 'they are a born leader?' While babies are not born with a leadership script to follow as we grow the opportunities and the experiences we have foster the development of leadership characteristics.
In the course readings for this unit the chapter on 'leadership and management as a professional concept' will challenge us to separate the concepts of management from leadership. These terms are often exchanged in conversation to mean the same thing - in fact they are quite different. Once we have a good understanding of each of these concepts we will take a look at formal leadership versus informal leadership. So which comes first? the leader or the manager?
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READ:
Dahlkemper (2013). Anderson’s nursing leadership, management, and professional practice for the LPN/LVN in nursing school and beyond. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Company
Read Chapter 10 - 'Leadership and Management as a Professional Concept' (p. 135 - 151)
Not all leaders or managers are the same. In fact Pratt and Thornock ( in Dahlkemper, 2013) suggest there are five distinct leadership styles: autocratic, democratic, laissez-faire, multicratic or participative and finally transformational. This week we are going to find out what kind of leader we are. Take the 'Leadership and Followership Style Test' including in this week's readings. Be honest with yourself as you go through each question. Once you have concluded what type of leader you think you are, then ask a friend or family member to do the test. Did they come up with the same leadership style as you did? Other's may view you differently than you view yourself.
ACTIVITY:
Dahlkemper (2013). Anderson’s nursing leadership, management, and professional practice for the LPN/LVN in nursing school and beyond. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Company
Complete the 'Leadership and Followership Style Test' on pages 145 - 150.
Leadership is also external and can be reflected in the way that we engage with others. In the chapter on the healthcare environment, Pratt and Thornock (in Dahlkemper, 2013) will introduce us to eight different roles for the LPN within the healthcare system. As you read through this chapter think about how you will take on any one of these roles. This may feel as though it is in the distant future for you as a student but new graduate LPNs often find themselves assuming these roles very quickly after graduation.
READ:
Dahlkemper (2013). Anderson’s nursing leadership, management, and professional practice for the LPN/LVN in nursing school and beyond. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Company
Read Chapter 4 - 'Healthcare Environment' (p. 53 - 61)
Leadership cannot take place in isolation. Leaders need followers and followers need leaders. In addition to the provincial government, everyone has to follow these rules, the regulatory body and the professional association for LPNs in BC offer both leadership and leadership support.
The regulatory body, CLPNBC also has a role to play in leadership. LPNs are considered self regulating professionals. What does this mean? Go to the CLPNBC website and look for the tab 'what is an LPN' and then search for the information 'LPNs are self regulating professionals'. In this unit we will gain an appreciation of the role of the regulatory body in leadership as well as our own responsibilities around leadership.
INVESTIGATE:
Go to the CLPNBC website [www.clpnbc.org]
Read the section 'LPNs are self regulating professionals' located under the 'What is an LPN' tab
In British Columbia, LPN's also have a professional association called the 'Licensed Practical Nurses Association of BC' (LPNBC). This week we will explore this website and take a look at the many resources the association offers us both as students as well as future practical nurses.
INVESTIGATE:
Go to the Licensed Practical Nurses Association of BC (LPNBC) website [http://lpnbc.ca]
Read the section 'History of LPN's in BC'
Explore the website to gain an understanding of what resources are available
Each of these contribute to the professional practice of licensed practical nurses - let's start fostering the development of these skills right now.
In addition, a handout has been provided for you called 'Exemplary Leaders'. Read through this handout to further support your understanding of leadership.