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LPN to RN Transitions 6 th Edition Achieving Success in Your New Role

6 th Edition Achieving Success in Your New Role Transitions LPN to RN

Linda Lee Phelps, DNP, RN Assistant Professor Nursing Education Department Palomar College San Marcos, California

Vice President and Segment Leader, Health Learning & Practice: Julie K. Stegman Director, Nursing Education and Practice Content: Jamie Blum Senior Acquisitions Editor: Susan Hartman Senior Development Editor: Meredith L. Brittain

Editorial Coordinator: Varshaanaa SM Marketing Manager: Wendy Mears Editorial Assistant: Sara Thul Manager, Graphic Arts and Design: Stephen Druding Art Director, Illustration : Jennifer Clements Senior Production Project Manager : Bridgett Dougherty Manufacturing Coordinator: Margie Orzech Prepress Vendor: Straive 6th edition Copyright © 2025 Wolters Kluwer. Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer. Copyright © 2013, 2009 by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, a Wolters Kluwer business. Copyright © 2003 by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Copyright © 1996 by Lippincott-Raven Publishers. All rights reserved. This book is protected by copyright. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including as photocopies or scanned-in or other electronic copies, or utilized by any information storage and retrieval system without written permission from the copyright owner, except for brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. Materials appearing in this book prepared by individuals as part of their official duties as U.S. government employees are not covered by the above-mentioned copyright. To request permission, please contact Wolters Kluwer at Two Commerce Square, 2001 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103, via email at permissions@lww.com, or via our website at shop.lww.com (products and services). Nursing diagnoses in this title are ICNP® nursing diagnoses. ICNP® is owned and copyrighted by the International Council of Nurses (ICN). Reproduced with permission of the copyright holder. 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Printed in Mexico Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Description: 6th edition. | Philadelphia : Wolters Kluwer, [2025]. | Preceded by LPN to RN transitions / Nicki Harrington, Cynthia Lee Terry. 5th edition. [2019] | Includes bibliographical references and index. | Summary: “Make the most of your personal and financial investment and learn how to effectively balance career, school, and personal pursuits on your journey to success as an RN. A proven guide to personal and professional achievement, LPN to RN Transitions, 6th Edition, eases the return to academic life and helps licensed practical and vocational nurses effectively balance career, school and personal pursuits on the journey to success in registered nursing programs”—Provided by publisher. Identifiers: LCCN 2024023721 (print) | LCCN 2024023722 (ebook) | ISBN 9781975241919 (print) | ISBN 9781975241940 (epub) Subjects: MESH: Nursing | Career Mobility | Nurse’s Role | Nurses—psychology | Case Reports | Examination Questions | BISAC: MEDICAL / Nursing / LPN & LVN Classification: LCC RT82 (print) | LCC RT82 (ebook) | NLM WY 18.2 | DDC 610.7306/9—dc23/eng/20240701 LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2024023721 LC ebook record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2024023722 This work is provided “as is,” and the publisher disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, including any warranties as to accuracy, comprehensiveness, or currency of the content of this work. This work is no substitute for individual patient assessment based upon healthcare professionals’ examination of each patient and consideration of, among other things, age, weight, gender, current or prior medical conditions, medication history, laboratory data and other factors unique to the patient. The publisher does not provide medical advice or guidance and this work is merely a reference tool. Healthcare professionals, and not the publisher, are solely responsible for the use of this work including all medical judgments and for any resulting diagnosis and treatments. Given continuous, rapid advances in medical science and health information, independent professional verification of medical diagnoses, indications, appropriate pharmaceutical selections and dosages, and treatment options should be made and healthcare professionals should consult a variety of sources. When prescribing medication, healthcare professionals are advised to consult the product information sheet (the manufacturer’s package insert) accompanying each drug to verify, among other things, conditions of use, warnings and side effects and identify any changes in dosage schedule or contraindications, particularly if the medication to be administered is new, infrequently used or has a narrow therapeutic range. To the maximum extent permitted under applicable law, no responsibility is assumed by the publisher for any injury and/or damage to persons or property, as a matter of products liability, negligence law or otherwise, or from any reference to or use by any person of this work. LWW.com Names: Phelps, Linda Lee, author. | Harrington, Nicki. LPN to RN transitions. Title: LPN to RN transitions : achieving success in your new role / Linda Lee Phelps.

To the compassionate souls embracing the noble journey of nursing, may your hearts be as resilient as your hands are gentle. May you find strength in every challenge, solace in every care, and fulfillment in the healing touch you bring to those in need. I hope you will find inspiration within these pages to fuel your unwavering commitment to healing, kindness, and the profound impact you will make on countless lives. This book is dedicated to the caregivers, the healers, and the future leaders of the healthcare world. Your journey begins here; may it be filled with compassion, courage, and boundless love.

—Linda Lee Phelps

Preface

Choosing to reenter the rigors of academic life is a monumental decision for any LPN/LVN returning to school. Doing so is both a personal and a financial investment and can be characterized by extreme highs and lows. This new path challenges the aspiring associate degree nurse (ADN) to operate in a sometimes chaotic new world that calls for nonlinear thinking, balancing many simultaneous challenges, and a global perspective. It also requires the nurse to be an independent practitioner while function ing collaboratively within an expanded and more specialized healthcare team. LPN to RN Transitions: Achieving Success in Your New Role , 6th Edition, serves as a guide to prepare students for a successful journey. The previous five editions of this book were authored by Nicki Harrington and Cynthia Lee Terry. Their dedication and expertise helped countless LPN students suc cessfully transition to an RN program. The 6th edition welcomes a new author, Linda Lee Phelps. This updated edition incorporates contemporary research, evidence-based practices, and real-world scenarios to reflect the dynamic nature of healthcare. Each chapter guides students through the complexities of role transition, addressing the chal lenges and opportunities unique to this professional evolution. The inclusion of cutting edge information, current healthcare policies, and advancements in nursing education ensures that learners are well prepared for the realities of modern nursing practice. This text is designed to be used by students in a variety of adult learning settings, includ ing independent study, classroom collaborative workgroups, online discussions, and interactions in virtual learning spaces. Whether you are a student embarking on this transformative journey or an educator guiding others through it, this textbook was developed to be a comprehensive and indispensable resource, providing the knowledge and support needed for a successful transition from LPN to RN. Today’s nurse must be resourceful, inquisitive, politically active, and must consist ently seek additional knowledge, competencies, and career growth to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world. Through the lens of changing societal trends, students are asked to think critically about their personal and professional viewpoints and values. This text encourages the application of evidence-based research, critical thinking, and clinical judgment as the student confronts challenges as a critical member of the health care team. The content of this book promotes learning for diverse student populations with a variety of learning styles and experiential backgrounds. In addition, it provides students with useful tools and practical strategies for balancing their job, school, and personal lives while achieving their educational and professional goals. FEATURES This textbook has been thoughtfully revised and updated to provide aspiring nurses with the latest information, insights, and best practices in the field. Features that stu dents and educators value include case studies of student experiences at the beginning of each chapter, which assist the reader in realizing that the journey to associate degree

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nursing is not an isolated one—it is shared by other students of all ages and life back grounds. Students may recognize their own experiences in one or more of these case studies and realize that others face similar challenges. Strategies used throughout the text to help the student with role transition to the ADN program include interactive student exercises and the development of a personal education plan based on the student’s own experience along with their program’s philosophy, curricular framework, and student learning objectives. The “Thinking Critically” feature provides students with opportunities to reflect on presented mate rial, to examine application of theoretical content to the clinical practice setting, and to share perspectives with peers and in a group setting. Other helpful features are learning outcomes, sample NCLEX-RN style questions, and “On the Web” boxes that refer read ers to useful resources. Each chapter employs evidence-based practice techniques to enhance clinical judgment and to foster success in the transition to the professional role. Updated resources, websites, case studies, and real-world examples provide students with the opportunity to further explore individual topics and to enhance their learning by incorporating the latest advancements, research findings, and educational meth odologies. These revisions ensure that the content is relevant, engaging, compre hensive, and aligned with the changing landscape of the nursing profession. This book serves as a dynamic platform for students to deepen their knowledge, to foster critical thinking skills, and to stay abreast of the evolving developments within nursing, ultimately preparing them for success in their academic and professional journeys. TEXT ORGANIZATION Unit I, The Transition Process, empowers learners with the knowledge and skills neces sary to navigate the transformative phase in their nursing careers from LPN/LVN to RN. Updated college success strategies address a more diverse, multicultural student population. Support and resource information is included for underrepresented com munities, individuals of color, men, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and students for whom English may not be their first language. Chapters 1 through 6 explore the significance of continuous learning in the evolv ing field of nursing. As aspiring RNs embark on this journey, understanding the intricacies of role development becomes paramount to their success in assuming the responsibilities and expectations of an RN. The text explains how students can assess their preferred learning styles and also covers emotional intelligence, study skills, and organizational skills. Recognizing that each individual’s journey is unique, each chapter equips students with the knowledge and skills essential for success in their educational pursuits and provides guidance on tailoring a plan that aligns with personal and profes sional goals.

The concepts of “role overload” and “role transition” are expanded to provide addi tional support for contemporary students experiencing financial difficulties, extended work commitments, and personal challenges exacerbated by the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the prevailing economic conditions. Support resources are included for students reentering academia who may face challenges navigating web pages and virtual learning spaces. Resources and coping strategies are explored for veterans pursuing nursing programs who may face additional challenges as they adjust to both the student role and civilian life. Copyright © 2025 Wolters Kluwer, Inc. Unauthorized reproduction of the content is prohibited.

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Chapter 7 has been extensively updated to provide students with the latest informa tion and insights essential for success in taking exams in the revised Next-Generation NCLEX (NGN) format. The NGN marked a transformative shift in the nursing licen sure examination as well as a crucial evolution in nursing education and practice. The NGN was introduced with the primary objective of enhancing clinical judgment skills among nursing professionals and better aligning the examination with the realities of contemporary clinical practice, ultimately advancing the level of public safety in health care. The updated chapter not only describes the modifications to the examination but also describes the new perspectives, case studies, and scenarios that mirror the chal lenges and nuances of real-world clinical practice. Unit II, Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Practice, explores the core com petencies and knowledge essential for the modern that allow them to handle the com plexities of professional practice. The nursing student learns to navigate the regulatory frameworks and standards that guide nursing practice, and they gain valuable insights into ethical considerations that form the foundation of nursing practice. Students are encouraged to examine the cognitive processes that are integral to nursing decision making. They hone advanced critical thinking skills and clinical judgment skills that nurses must possess to respond effectively to complex situations in the dynamic and fast-paced healthcare environment.

UNIT III, Role Concepts Essential for RN Practice, is divided into three parts: ••Part A, “Provider of Care,” explores the essential role concepts for RN practice, emphasizing assessment, communication, and teaching as integral components of the nurse’s role. Chapter 10 examines the foundational aspects of the nursing process, focusing on the critical role of assessment in delivering comprehensive and patient centered care. Students explore the process in which nurses translate assessment findings into meaningful actions that address the holistic needs of their patients. In Chapter 11, from active listening to conveying empathy, students learn various com munication strategies essential for establishing trust and fostering collaboration in diverse healthcare settings. Chapter 12 discusses the nurse in the pivotal role of edu cator. From assessing learning needs to developing effective teaching plans, students explore a comprehensive framework for nurses to impart knowledge and to empower individuals to take an active role in their health. With a focus on individualized teach ing strategies, students discover how to adapt their educational approach to diverse patient populations, fostering a collaborative and informed healthcare experience. ••Part B, Manager of Care, provides an in-depth exploration of the managerial aspects of nursing, focusing on individualized client care, efficient time management, conflict resolution, and managing resources. These chapters empower the nursing student with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their role as a manager of care, navigating the complexities of healthcare delivery with competence and professional ism. In Chapter 13, students discover the intricacies of managing unique client care, taking into account factors such as cultural background, age, and specific health con ditions, and emphasizing the nurse’s role as a dynamic and adaptable caregiver. From personalized care assessments to the coordination of interdisciplinary efforts, students explore practical insights into optimizing the quality of care delivery. Chapter 14 discusses efficient time management, conflict resolution, and managing resources, which are all paramount in allowing nurses to prioritize tasks while ensuring quality patient care. Students gain valuable insights about how to identify, address, and resolve conflicts, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. Copyright © 2025 Wolters Kluwer, Inc. Unauthorized reproduction of the content is prohibited.

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••Part C, Member of the Discipline of Nursing, encompasses the professional, legal, and ethical dimensions that shape the nursing discipline. These chapters equip nursing students with the knowledge and ethical decision-making skills necessary to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, legal accountability, and ethical conduct within the dynamic and evolving healthcare landscape. Students explore the core tenets that define the profession, including standards of practice, continu ing education, and professional development. These chapters emphasize the impor tance of upholding ethical standards, maintaining competence, and engaging in collaborative efforts to advance the nursing discipline. Students gain insights into the diverse responsibilities that characterize their professional commitment, from understanding the scope of practice to contributing to the evolution of healthcare policies. To gain an understanding of legal accountability in nursing practice, stu dents navigate legal frameworks, licensure requirements, and the implications of negligence and malpractice in nursing. In addition, these chapters examine ethical considerations that are intrinsic to the fabric of nursing practice such as end-of-life care decisions, resource allocation, and cultural competence. INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE A note about the language used in this book. Wolters Kluwer recognizes that people have a diverse range of identities, and we are committed to using inclusive and non biased language in our content. In line with the principles of nursing, we strive not to define people by their diagnoses, but to recognize their personhood first and foremost, using as much as possible the language diverse groups use to define themselves, and including only information that is relevant to nursing care. We strive to better address the unique perspectives, complex challenges, and lived experiences of diverse populations traditionally underrepresented in health literature. When describing or referencing populations discussed in research studies, we will adhere to the identities presented in those studies to maintain fidelity to the evidence presented by the study investigators. We follow best practices of language set forth by the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 7th Edition, but acknowledge that language evolves rapidly, and we will update the language used in future editions of this book as necessary. A COMPREHENSIVE PACKAGE FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING To further facilitate teaching and learning, a carefully designed ancillary package has been developed to assist faculty and students. RESOURCES FOR INSTRUCTORS Tools to assist you with teaching your course are available upon adoption of this text at http://thePoint.lww.com/Phelps6e. ••An e-book gives you access to the book’s full text and images online. ••A Test Generator lets you put together exclusive new tests from a bank containing hundreds of questions to help you in assessing your students’ understanding of the material. Test questions link to chapter learning objectives. •• PowerPoint Presentations provide an easy way for you to integrate the textbook with your students’ classroom experience, either via slide shows or handouts.

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Multiple-choice and true/false questions are integrated into the presentations to promote class participation and allow you to use i-clicker technology. ••An Image Bank allows you use the illustrations and tables from this textbook in your PowerPoint slides or as you see fit in your course. ••Sample Syllabi provide guidance for structuring your course. RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS A set of free resources is available to help students review material and become even more familiar with vital concepts. Students can access these resources at http://thePoint. lww.com/Phelps6e using the codes printed in the front of their textbooks. •• NCLEX-Style Review Questions for each chapter help students review important concepts and practice for the NCLEX. •• Journal Articles offer access to current research available in Wolters Kluwer journals.

Acknowledgments

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the incredible individuals who made the creation of this book possible. To family, friends, and mentors who provided unwavering encour agement and support throughout this journey: Your belief in me has been a constant source of strength. To my students: Your curiosity and enthusiasm inspired the content; I learn from all of you every day. To my colleagues: Your collaboration and valuable insights greatly enriched the material. I would like to extend my gratitude to the previous authors of this book, whose dedication and expertise laid the foundation for this edition. To Nicki Harrington and Cynthia Lee Terry: Your insightful content inspired me in this journey. Special thanks to the dedicated editors and reviewers at Wolters Kluwer, especially Meredith Brittain, whose expertise and diligence shaped the manuscript into its final form: Your attention to detail and commitment to maintaining the highest standards have undoubtedly enhanced the quality of this book; I am deeply grateful for your patience, encouragement, and constructive feedback, which not only improved the manuscript but also enhanced my writing process. —Linda Lee Phelps

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Contents

Preface vii Acknowledgments xiii

Unit I The Transition Process

1 Lifelong Learning: Returning to School

3 5 5

Lifelong Learning in Nursing

The Reentry Process: Overcoming Barriers and Fears Resuming the Student Role: “Returning to School Syndrome”

11 13 19 32 38 39 41 42 45 49 55 60 63 64 65 65 66 67 69 71 79 81 82 85 86 93 99

Diverse Learning Styles

Student Role: Strategies for Success

Conclusion

2 Role Development and Transition

Definitions Types of Roles

Role Development

Personal and Adult Development Professional Role Development

Role Transition Conclusion

3 Adapting to Change

Change Defined Process of Change

Individual and Organizational Change Factors That Motivate Change

Types of Change

Stages of Planned Change Effects of Change Adjusting to Change Positive Outcomes of Change

4 Transitions Throughout Nursing’s History

Development of Nursing

Professional Nursing Organizations Evolution of Nursing as a Profession The Discipline of Nursing Evolution of Nursing Science Transitions in Nursing Education

102 105 105 109

Factors That Have Influenced Trends and Transitions in Nursing

xvi Contents

Nursing Informatics and HIPAA

121 122 123 124 125 125 126 130 131 134 141 146 147 149 152 154 161 161 162 164 165 165 172 173 175 176 177 182 184 184 192 193 197 198 201 201 203 205 206 207 195

Experiential Wisdom and Evidence-Based Practice

Holistic and Spiritual Care Nursing Entrepreneurism

Service Learning, Advocacy, and Policy Making Collaborative Practice and Nursing’s Future

Conclusion

5 Learning at the ADN Level

Adult Learning Theory

Practical/Vocational and Associate Degree Nursing Education: A Comparison Transition Needs Unique to the LPN/LVN-to-ADN Student Differentiating ADN Student and LPN/LVN Practice Roles Learning Strategies for Success

Conclusion

6 Individualizing a Plan for Role Transition Assessing Preparedness for the Student Role

Assessing Learning Style

The Reflective Process: Assessing Adult Learner Uniqueness Assessing Prior Learning: Standardized and Nonstandardized Tests

Instructor–Student Partnership Initiating Your Student Portfolio

Conclusion

7 Test Success and the Challenge of NCLEX-RN Questions

Development of the NCLEX-RN

Main Categories of the NCLEX-RN Test Plan Test Language: Key Components to a Test Bloom’s Taxonomy and Level of Difficulty

Clinical Judgment Test Item Formats

Preparation for an NCLEX-RN Style Exam

After the Exam: Decompressing, Reviewing, and Getting Help

Conclusion

Unit II Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Practice

Regulations, Policies, and Standards

Nurse Practice Acts

Directed, Autonomous, and Collaborative Nursing Practice Mechanisms for Identifying Differences in Knowledge and Roles National Council Licensure Examinations Practical/Vocational Nursing Roles and Competencies Associate Degree Nursing Roles and Competencies

Contents xvii

Licensed Practical/Vocational Versus Registered Nurse Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

208 209

Conclusion

9 Critical Thinking, Clinical Reasoning, and Clinical Judgment in Nursing

211 212 213 216 218 218 220 221 222 224 225 227 228 231 237 238 239 240 259 261 264 276 283 287 288 289 289 298 301 307 308 310 235 237

The Need for Critical Thinking Critical Thinking Defined Critical Thinking Versus Feeling Critical Thinking and Creative Thinking

Metacognition, Reflective Thinking, and Self-Regulation

Critical Thinking in Nursing

Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, and the Nursing Process Clinical Reasoning, Intuition, and Clinical Judgment

Clinical Judgment and the Nursing Process Critical Thinking and Holistic Nursing Critical Thinking and Accountability Critical Thinking and Nursing Education

Conclusion

Unit III Role Concepts Essential for RN Practice

PART A PROVIDER OF CARE

10 The Nursing Process: Assessment and Caring Interventions From Licensed Practical Nurse to Professional Nursing Practice An Historical Overview of the Nursing Process and Nursing Language

The Nursing Process: Overview and Steps

Conclusion

11 The Nurse as Communicator Basic Communication Revisited

Communication in the Healthcare Setting

Conclusion

12 The Nurse as Teacher

The Challenge of Client Education

Teaching, Learning, and Functional Literacy Defined

Principles of Teaching and Learning

Teaching Interventions

Steps in the Teaching–Learning Process Documentation of Client Teaching

Clinical Application of the Teaching–Learning Process

Conclusion

PART B MANAGER OF CARE

312

13 Managing the Care of Unique Clients

312 313 314

Understanding Uniqueness Uniqueness and Culture

xviii Contents

Sensitively Assessing a Client’s Uniqueness

316 318 324 327 329 331 343 349 351 352 355 357 359 362 369 372 374 378 380 382 386 389 391 393 395 396 398 401 402 403 404 404 405 414 416 419 355

Aspects of Client Uniqueness

Incorporating Uniqueness Into the Nursing Care Process

Conclusion

14 Decision-Making and Managing Time, Conflict, and Resources

Managing Time Managing Conflict Making Decisions Managing Resources

Conclusion

PART C MEMBER OF THE DISCIPLINE OF NURSING

15 Professional Responsibilities

Advocacy

Accountability

Professional Growth

Advancing Nursing as a Profession

Professional Stewardship

Conclusion

16 Legal Accountability

Sources of Law

Classifications of Law

Accountability

Liability, Negligence, and Malpractice

Risk Management

Legally Sensitive Areas That Affect Nursing Practice Confidentiality and the Right to Privacy

Defamation of Character

Conclusion

17 Ethical Issues

Ethics and History

Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Distress

Ethics and the Law Ethics and Religion Nursing Ethics

Ethical Decision-Making in Nursing

Appendix Answers to “The NCLEX-RN Might Ask” Questions

425

Index

Adapting to Change

CHAPTER 3

By the end of this chapter, the student will be able to: 1. Explore the paradoxes of change. 2. Differentiate individual and organizational change. 3. Summarize factors that motivate change. 4. Compare and contrast types of change. 5. Describe the process of planned change. 6. Outline Lewin’s process of change. 7. Discuss the effects of change on individuals and systems. 8. Apply theoretical effects of change. 9. Describe the methods for adjusting to change. 10. Give examples of positive outcomes of change.

LEARNING OUTCOMES 11. Compare and contrast Lewin’s change theory with Bridges’ phases of transition. 12. Evaluate effective strategies for managing the three-phase transition experienced by an individual or organization undergoing transformational change.

KEY TERMS ambivalence autonomy biotechnology change change agent conflict crisis distress driving forces

eustress flexibility general adaptation syndrome individual change loss organizational change paradox resistance

resonance restraining forces self-actualization stakeholders stress transactional change transformational change

Case

Deborah Washington is a 46-year-old LPN who has worked in the mental health unit for the past 25 years. She is taking her first clinical

nursing course in the LPN to ADN Bridge Program. After having difficulty with the clinical component in a hospital setting, she is meeting with her nursing adviser, John Tercha, to discuss her problems adjusting to change.

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CHANGE DEFINED Merriam-Webster (n.d.) defines change as “to undergo transformation, transition, or substitution.” William Bridges (2001, 2009, 2016), a leading author on change and tran sitions whose concepts were presented in the previous chapter, identified several change paradoxes that define its dynamic state (Box 3.1). A paradox is a statement that seems absurd or contradictory but is based on fact (Box 3.1). Change can be planned or unplanned, but it is ever present in our daily lives. With change, each person, group, or organization has the opportunity to develop, grow, and ADVISOR TERCHA: Yes, you will have to complete the clinical rotations of the Bridge Program, but the student learning outcomes you will be achieving are at a different practice level. I can assure you that others feel this way too and the change is uncomfortable. However, in time, you will become more at ease, and even though you cannot see the relevance of what you are learning, it is part of the bigger picture of not only bringing currency to your practice but also helping you to develop a lens for professional nursing practice. This includes helping you see the larger context of your clients, applying new theoretical concepts, and thinking critically to diagnose and design comprehensive care plans as a registered nurse, licensed to practice in a variety of settings. Change is difficult, and you are experiencing a necessary step in your development as a professional nurse. Let’s discuss what specific difficulties you are having and apply the change theory you are learning in class to your own situation to help you through the transition process in this first clinical rotation. Paradoxes of Change •• To achieve continuity, we have to be willing to change. •• Change is the only way to protect whatever exists; without continuous readjustments, the present cannot continue. •• The very things we now wish that we could hold onto and keep safe from change were themselves originally produced by change. BOX 3.1 DEBORAH: I feel so inadequate! I remember being in the hospital setting years ago, but why do I need to go through all this again when there is a job opening where I have worked for 25 years? I just need to upgrade my license to the RN level. I’m not even going to work in a medical-surgical area, and I don’t see why I should have to repeat all these basic procedures again. What “RN level work” am I learning by doing total care for a bedridden congestive heart failure patient? I just feel like I’m jumping through hoops! ADVISOR TERCHA: I hear what you’re saying, and I understand. It is often very uncomfortable for returning adult students to be in a new environment, and return ing to school and being in the student role again is a big change. It sounds as if you feel frustrated and you’re not seeing how your clinical rotation is applicable to your future professional work. DEBORAH: Exactly! Do I really have to do all of this? I feel like I’m starting over. I already learned all this many years ago in LPN training, and I don’t even use it where I work.

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adapt. Change is inevitable and dynamic. Each of us copes with change in unique ways. Our responses to change are affected by our past experiences, our current situations, our family dynamics and social context, and our comfort level with change. Huston (2023) notes that one of the challenges for nurse professionals is to assist clients and colleagues with developing comfort with the change process inherent in the healthcare industry today. She emphasizes that in order to foster an environment of innovation and change, leaders must first recognize, embrace, and demonstrate participation in innovation and change in their own leadership practices. For professional nurses to lead and provide sup port for those they supervise who are experiencing change in the healthcare setting, they must first understand the concept and process of change, factors influencing one’s ability to adapt to change, motivational strategies, and approaches for successful, productive change. PROCESS OF CHANGE Examining the process of change is particularly important for the LPN/LVN to RN student for several reasons. First, you are experiencing personal change by returning to school. Second, you will be presented with many aspects of change within the nursing curriculum. For instance, in issues related to trends in healthcare, the faculty may present you with cur rent methods of delivering care and have you explore how the future of healthcare delivery will be affected by advances in biotechnology or changes in healthcare policy or the economy. Third, as you prepare for your own role transition, you will learn about the new roles nurses have today and will have in the future, such as engaging in evidence-based practice and becoming an active and equal member of an interprofessional collaborative team. It is essential to understand that change is inevitable. Change occurs even when you think societal and work roles and values are stable or resistant to change, and the challenge for each individual is to learn to be more comfortable outside their “comfort zone.” INDIVIDUAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE When differentiating individual change from organizational change, one must remem ber that change always implies the alteration or modification of behaviors or functions. Within the individual, change may occur without any plan at all, or it may be the result of much planning. Later in this chapter, types of change are described. Organizational change also results in behavior or function alterations but has the potential to have a greater impact on parts of an organization and its individuals. Table 3.1 compares indi vidual and organizational change.

TABLE 3.1 Individual and Organizational Change Compared Type of Change Description Example Individual change Copyright © 2025 Wolters Kluwer, Inc. Unauthorized reproduction of the content is prohibited.

An LPN/LVN who has returned to school changes from full-time to part-time work to have more time to study. A small hospital determines that it will move to a flexible staffing pattern with combinations of 4-, 8-, 10-, and 12-hour shifts. This affects staffing workloads, staffing mix, patient documentation systems, and functions of the various healthcare providers at the facility.

The process of altering or modifying the current state in terms of behaviors or functions. The process of altering the structure or function of the whole or parts of the whole so that individuals or groups modify behaviors and functions.

Organizational change

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Change within an organization involves modifying working practices and proce dures or causing individuals to work in different ways. This can produce a great deal of fear among employees. William Bridges (2016) offers many suggestions for assisting individuals in organizations experiencing loss and fear in such change processes, includ ing honoring past history and culture, involving people in the transition, and establish ing a “change manager” to monitor all the details of the change process and identify problems quickly as they arise. FACTORS THAT MOTIVATE CHANGE Many factors motivate change. If you were to examine your reasons for desiring a change from your role as an LPN/LVN to that of an RN, you may identify some aspects that are described in the following text. You may also recognize some factors that have played a part in other life changes. CRISIS One factor that can precipitate change is a crisis —a turning point or a critical time in the course of an event. A situational crisis involves an unexpected event, such as a natural dis aster, loss of a loved one, illness, or divorce. This type of crisis can motivate an individual to make other changes. For example, a 40-year-old nurse who had recently been through a split from their partner recognized a need to further their education and develop a professional career. This may not have happened if they had remained with their partner. CONFLICT Another factor that can influence the process of change is conflict. There is always an implied sense of battle or opposition when the term conflict is used. In relation to change, it also denotes a struggle or variance with a particular situation or person. Conflict may result in change because an individual is frustrated with the current cir cumstances. An example is that of a person who has not been happy in their position as a nurse at a local hospital. They want to practice nursing in a more holistic way and believe that the fragmented care system is not adequate. Although the nurse has spoken to their boss about this many times, they have been unable to make any changes in the healthcare delivery system. Finally, the nurse decides that they can no longer deal with the conflict, and so they resign. They are subsequently hired by a community health agency that practices a more holistic approach. Conflict motivated this individual to make a change. DISAPPOINTMENT Everyone has experienced disappointment at some point. Disappointment is related to a sense of failure at not meeting expectations or fulfilling certain plans and can be another motivator for change. A nursing student who has done poorly in math has avoided working on math problems. After failing their first quiz, they meet with their advisor, spend time with a college tutor, and purchase a step-by-step nursing math review text. This student nurse has vowed to change their practice habits so that they will pass the next quiz and improve their clinical performance. LACK OF REWARDS Another stimulus for change is lack of rewards in the current circumstances. An individual may be in a position that affords little recognition or reward. For example,

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an LPN who has been working in a skilled nursing facility for 10 years has been passed over several times to move up to a charge nurse position, even though the LPN oriented the newly graduated RNs who have been hired and quickly promoted to the position the LPN has desired. This situation has caused disappointment and motivates the LPN to return to school to pursue an RN license. DESIRE FOR AUTONOMY AND SELF-IMPROVEMENT The desire for autonomy and self-improvement can also activate change. A person may feel stagnated and powerless in a particular position and thus may take appropriate steps to change the situation. For instance, a certified nursing assistant may enjoy their work but not feel able to influence policy or procedures. They may also want to learn more and take on additional responsibility. This sense of powerlessness and the need for self improvement is a potent factor for change. THINKING CRITICALLY Identify factors that have motivated you to make a change in your life. Give examples of changes that you have made. Analyze the results of these changes and how certain behaviors or functions were affected. TYPES OF CHANGE There are various types of change that an individual or organization can face. Some are developmental; some are unplanned; and some are planned. From your own experi ences, you can probably identify some of these. The following sections define three types of change that are generally encountered. DEVELOPMENTAL CHANGE Developmental change is change in which a person proceeds through stages in a fairly predictable order. Tasks are identified for each stage that must be accomplished to com plete a stage. Examples of this type of change were described in the previous chapter. These stages of change can be due to age or changes in family structure. UNPLANNED CHANGE Unplanned change can refer to a positive or negative, desired or undesired change that was not planned. An example of positive unplanned change would be an unexpected promotion within an organization, whereas a negative unplanned stage might be unan nounced layoffs at a place of employment. Two types of unplanned change are forced change and spontaneous change. Forced Change Forced change is a type of change that is imposed on an individual or organization that requires action, often of an immediate or emergent nature. An example would be a fire in a person’s home, in which the entire home and its contents are lost. Family members are forced to consider rebuilding the home and replacing lost items, as well as realizing that everything is forever different.

68 Unit I • The Transition Process

Spontaneous Change Spontaneous change refers to change that is impulsive or effortless and is often random or unpredictable. For example, when a person begins a new job, they may take on the characteristics of other coworkers. This may involve buying the same types of clothes or becoming interested in similar activities. In retrospect, it may seem like a planned response, but in reality, it occurred spontaneously and without forethought. PLANNED CHANGE Taylor et al. (2023) describe planned change as a deliberate, purposeful, methodical endeavor to effect change. Planned change involves advanced strategy by a change agent who serves as a “champion” to lead the change process. Members who are affected by the change are referred to as stakeholders . In an organization, anyone can become the change agent and present ideas to the stakeholders. For example, a planned change is your return to school; you probably made careful plans to achieve your goals. These plans may have included child care or other personal issues, revision of work schedules, or a change in daily activities. Other planned changes may have occurred in your workplace. Schedule changes are an example. Some healthcare settings have opted to have their employees work 12-hour shifts. To establish that schedule, an imple mentation plan is developed so that the transition to the new schedule is as smooth as possible. This is the process of planned change. There are several types of planned change. Incremental Change Incremental change involves a planned change that occurs gradually in steps or stages. This type of planning is often applied to long-term projects, such as hospital mergers or curriculum changes. You may have planned your return to school in increments. You may have taken your general education courses first at the initial stage of your education. The second part of the process involves completing the nursing courses. By doing this, you are able to continue working or have greater ability to care for a family or remain involved in other interests. Rapid Change Change that is planned quickly may or may not be successful. For instance, rapid plans may need to be developed in rescue situations to assist people quickly in precarious situations. Rapid change can also mean the implementation of an organizational plan without considering the ramifications. As an example, a nursing organization recog nizes that staff positions need to be eliminated fairly quickly because of reduced census or revenue shortfalls. The plans are made to eliminate positions based on seniority, without considering what units have the highest staffing needs and how staff might need to be transferred and oriented. The plan is implemented quickly but without consider ing the fallout. Transactional Change Transactional change occurs for mutual benefit. For example, nursing faculty and students determine that a change is needed in clinical experiences so that all seniors have the opportunity for a leadership experience. Representatives of both groups meet to plan the best method to accomplish this goal. The plan is formed so that all parties are able to transact an appropriate and mutually agreeable plan.

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Transformational Change Transformational change can occur within the process of planned change. In your return to school, a change will occur as you progress through your ADN course work. With this process of change will come not only new knowledge and skills but also a new way of thinking and being. Transformational change can occur for an individual or an organization and implies that there is a radical difference as a result of change. This radical change results in the individual or organization experiencing a transition. Such a transition must be managed well, as described by Bridges and Bridges (2016), for there to be a positive outcome. As discussed in the previous chapter, attention must be given to managing each of the three phases of the transition—endings, the neutral zone, and the new beginning (see Chapter 2, Box 2.4). THINKING CRITICALLY Review the types of change that have been described. Think of experiences that have involved change in your life. Categorize these changes according to the previous descriptions. Consider these changes in terms of individual, group, and organizational changes. Are any of them transformational in nature? Why? In what ways were the three phases of the transition managed well? In what ways could they have been managed better? STAGES OF PLANNED CHANGE The process of change is complex because it involves the modification of behaviors. Unplanned change is, obviously, less structured and more haphazard than planned change. When change is planned, there will be a more systematic approach that entails problem-solving, decision-making, and deliberate steps. Kurt Lewin was a social sci entist credited with doing the first work in change theory. The following text outlines his theory of planned change, which remains a core foundation of change theory today. You may see some similarities between Lewin and the more contemporary work done by William Bridges, discussed in the previous chapter. Lewin’s (1951) theory remains applicable to nursing practice today, more than seven decades later. Box 3.2 summarizes this theory. The NCLEX-RN Might Ask 3.1 The nurse is taking care of a large group of clients in a community care setting. Because of the high influx of new clients, the nurse manager independently decides to make a radical change in the way clients are assessed and processed. This type of radical change would be most consistent with: a. transactional change. b. transformational change. c. unplanned change. d. spontaneous change. ••See Appendix A for correct answer and rationale.

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