Trend in the role of licensed practical nurses in health care system: A situational analysis.

Abstract

Over the past hundred years, licensed practical nurses (LPN) have faced several challenges because of the changing situations in health care system. The current study addresses the role changing of LPNs in accordance with the context and new needs. This aim of situation analysis is to access what changes have occurred in the role of LPNs in the wake of changes in role of RNs over the past century and What factors and variables have influenced this process? This study used a Grounded Theory methodology called Situational Analysis. Data were collected through semistructured and in-depth interviews with 33 nurse. Researchers identify six themes that focus on how the role of LPNs has been changing and variables have influenced this process. In Iran, as in other countries of the world, the role of LPNs comes to fore when there are pressing needs and nursing shortage. Iranian policymakers have decided to eliminate LPNs, Although LPNs in other countries are working in community-based settings. Treatment-oriented and self-monitoring structure of the Iranian health care system, new nursing organizations and lack of clear role classification at the caring levels have made the nursing roles ambiguous.