Optimizing Licensed Practical Nurses in Home Care: Their Role, Scope and Opportunities

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Healthcare Management
• Case Management

Background:

• Case management is an emerging competency for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Alberta's home care (HC) sector, introduced in 2015.
• The specific functions and influencing factors of LPNs in case management roles within HC are not well-defined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current roles LPNs undertake in home care and case management.
• To explore the potential roles LPNs could fulfill within their scope of practice to enhance client outcomes and system efficiencies in HC.

Main Methods:

• A mixed methods, multiple case study design was employed.
• Data were collected from LPNs, managers, and HC leaders across rural, urban, and suburban settings.
• Methods included semi-structured interviews, participant observation, focus groups, document review, and surveys.

Main Results:

• Findings will delineate the current scope and specific functions of LPNs in HC case management.
• The study will identify barriers and facilitators influencing LPNs' case management roles.
• Analysis will highlight opportunities for expanding LPN involvement to optimize care delivery.

Conclusions:

• Clarifying LPN roles in HC case management is crucial for leveraging their full potential.
• Expanding LPN responsibilities can lead to improved client care and healthcare system efficiencies.
• Further research should explore best practices for integrating LPNs into advanced case management roles.