Practical nurses, often called practical nurses (PNs) or vocational nurses (VNs), play a vital role in the healthcare system. They provide primary care to patients, working under the direction of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. Their work is demanding and rewarding, requiring technical skills, empathy, and the ability to adapt.
Morning routine setting the tone for the day
Practical nurses usually begin their day early, working in hospitals, nursing homes, or long-term settings. The morning shift usually begins with receiving a report from the previous shift. In this handover, PNs are aware of patient condition and treatment plan changes for patients as well as any aspects that may require immediate attention. This is usually associated with going through patient charts and preparing for scheduled treatments, including taking medicines. For example, an PN may take the blood sugar level of a diabetic patient and inject insulin in time for breakfast. Organization and proper time management help at this point in ensuring a smooth workflow.
Providing direct patient care
The primary role of an PN is direct patient care. Activities such as bathing and dressing patients, and measuring and recording patient’s vital signs comprise a few of the many patient-related duties that an PN carries out. PNs work closely with patients who depend on someone for everything, from moving to eating and attending to aspects of personal hygiene, ensuring that dignity and comfort are maintained. PN duties also include the administration of wound care, dressing changes, and catheter insertions. For example, in the post-surgical unit, an PN cleans and dresses the surgical incisions to avoid infection and promote healing. Each task requires an eye for distinct detail so that patients receive the highest standard of care.
Administering medications
Administering medication is the most significant task in practical nursing. Practical nurses should know about the patient’s issue rightly, and then they should also know about drug and medication dosage, dosage calculations, and drug interactions. Administering medications should be done safely. Medication administration is also one of the significant responsibilities that fall under an PN’s responsibility. The practical nurse learns to administer oral, topical, and injectable drugs safely by the prescribed dose and schedule and observe for side effects or reactions from the medication.
Supporting emotional and mental well-being
Beyond the physical care of patients, PNs play an important role in supporting the psychological and mental health of patients. Many patients experience anxiety, depression, or being overwhelmed, particularly those in long-term care or suffering from chronic illnesses. A practical nurse lends a listening ear, offers encouragement, and in some cases acts as a connecting link between a patient and the family. For example, the PN at a pediatric unit might comfort a petrified child before surgery through both verbal assurances and diversion activities such as storytelling or playing games with the child. Similarly, an PN can comfort an aged patient who has feelings of isolation by setting up a video call with the relatives.
Staying organized
Practical nurses assist patients during meal times by ensuring adherence to dietary restrictions and monitoring their food intake. Practical nurses also give actual assistance with feeding patients who need it. The practical nurse keeps an extensive record concerning the care of a patient, for instance, vital signs, medication administration, as well as any changes to their condition. Proper documentation guarantees continuity of care as well as legal and regulatory compliance.
Collaboration with the healthcare team
Collaboration is an essential part of a practical nurse’s role. Thus, PNs directly work with RNs, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care while participating in team meetings, sharing their observations with others regarding patients, and engaging in developing care plans. Good communication is very important for seamless transition of care among all providers to give a patient comprehensive, individualized care.
The challenges of being a practical nurse
The physical demands of the job, such as lifting patients and standing for long periods of time, can be difficult. Emotional challenges, such as dealing with a patient’s pain or illness, require a lot of patience and coping skills. In addition, practicing nurses must navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, including tight schedules and staff shortages. Despite these challenges, nursing careers are rewarding. The ability to improve patients’ lives, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to the healthcare team makes this work very satisfying.
The impact of practical nurses on healthcare
Practical nurses provide direct patient care, support the work of registered nurses and physicians, and ensure that healthcare facilities operate efficiently. In settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, nurse practitioners are the primary point of contact for patients, making their work critical to patient satisfaction and outcomes. Additionally, nurses play an important role in addressing healthcare disparities. By spreading empathy and cultural awareness, they help close the gap in access to quality care for vulnerable populations.
Conclusion
A day in the life of a working nurse is difficult, challenging, but also rewarding. From administering medications and monitoring patients to providing emotional support and educating families, nurses play a central role in patient care. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion make them an integral part of the healthcare system.As the demand for healthcare services increases, the role of the nurse practitioner becomes even more important. By understanding the daily work and impact of these professionals, we can better recognize their contributions and support their important work.