Exploring what quality means to licensed practical nurses and implications for professional practice

Abstract

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) have a significant role to play in British Columbia's rapidly changing health care system. The intention of this action research project was to engage LPNs registered with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of British Columbia (CLPNBC) through individual interviews and an online survey to identify what quality nursing practice looked like and how they felt when they saw it or were part of it. The findings indicated LPNs placed considerable importance on the acquisition of competence, were sensitive to how their colleagues perceived their value as part of the nursing team, and expressed confusion as to how CLPNBC should advocate for quality practice among registrants. Based on these findings, recommendations were made that would facilitate opportunities for LPNs to demonstrate ongoing quality nursing practice. This organizational action research project was designed and conducted in full compliance with Royal Roads University's (2007) Research Ethics Policy.