Two differences between the education and learning processes of the Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) level and that of the licensed practical nurse (LPN) nursing education are a more abstract level of learning such as concepts and theories, and more of a focus on the human needs aspect of the nursing model rather than the medical model (Harrington & Terry, 2013). The learning process at the ADN level takes more time to absorb, whereas the LPN skills are more of a case of remembering and repeating. Many of the terms and situations are the same, but the role that is taken, even in the classroom, is very different.
Of these differences, the one which I anticipate might be problematic for me is the need to do a lot of reading and writing in order to advance my nursing skills. So far I have found that it is easy for me to learning by doing and experiencing. While there is an aspect to this in earning an Associate degree, there is a lot more to it than following instructions and mastering steps in a practice. Sometimes it seems overwhelming to take it all in, however by taking the time to think through ideas in nursing, rather than just doing nursing, I will become proficient. This will involve more than mastering the course work, it will also involve translating what I learn in the courses to applications in the context of nursing. In order to overcome this barrier I will remember why I have chosen to take this path, which is to further my career and my understanding of nursing. One aspect that I have found helpful is the stories of pioneers in the nursing field, and how they came to change and improve the field of nursing. I have found these to be very motivational and inspiring, and I aim to have the skills and knowledge to someday make my contribution to the profession.
- Harrington, N., & Terry, C. L. (2013). LPN to RN transitions: Achieving success in your new role. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
