CHICAGO, IL - For those looking to step into a more management-type position at Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society, the nonprofit organization opened up charge nurse and nurse manager roles, or created new positions where the LPN can lead teams of CNAs and other LPN colleagues, according to Rochelle Rindels, vice president of nursing and clinical services.
“LPNs are an extremely valuable and essential part of our care team. They are on the front lines with the residents. They’re the eyes and the ears,” Rindels said. “They help contribute to the overall comprehensive plan of care.”
“[The role] definitely is a stepping stone into the vast opportunities that are available in nursing,” Rindels added. “Our LPNs love the work that they do. They love building relationships with the residents and being a part of birthday parties and anniversaries … really becoming like family.”
“We really wanted to allow our LPNs to work to that full scope of practice and type of license,” Rindels said. “And so that was one thing that we had changed to allow more LPNs to step into those MDS positions.”