Predicting Role Transitions for the LPN-to-RN Workforce in North Carolina (2015-16)
Investigators: Cheryl Jones PhD RN, Mark Toles PhD RN and George Knafl PhD
Background: Using the dataset developed in our Year 2 project, we will extend our descriptive work to model the key predictors of nurses who transition from LPN to RN roles.
Study aims: We will study the likelihood of transitioning (e.g. the dependent variable) based on the following independent variables: LPN characteristics (demographic, geographic, and practice characteristics); year and location of LPN licensure; years of LPN experience; and entry-level RN degree attained (e.g. diploma, ADN or BSN). Longitudinal analyses will be conducted using logistic regression, accounting for within-subject correlation with generalized estimation equations or with transition models (Diggle et al., 2002).
Alignment with BHW priorities). LPNs play an essential role in the flexible health care workforce because they are readily deployed in diverse health care settings, they help address workforce shortages, and they expand system capacity to deliver care to greater numbers of people. To optimize patients’ experiences, improve health, and lower health care costs, we need to cultivate the flexibility and capacity of LPNs to develop their careers and practice nursing at the highest possible levels of licensure. This study will model the predictors of professional transitions of LPNs to RNs in North Carolina. This work is an efficient use of BHW resources, as it builds on and uses the dataset constructed in our year 2 project. Findings will advance our understanding of the transition of LPNs to RNs and better explain factors and potential policy levers that can be used to increase the number of nurses that achieve this professional transition.
Related HWRC projects:
Barriers and facilitators for the LPN-to-RN transition: Perspectives from practicing LPNs (2016-17)
LPN Employment Transitions: A Signal of Changing Value to Employers? (2017-18)
- Jones CB, Toles M, Knafl G, Beeber A. (2018). An untapped resource in the nursing workforce: Licensed Practical Nurses who transition to become registered nurses. Nursing Outlook. 2018;66(1), 46-55.
- Jones C, Toles M, Knafl G. Predicting Transitions in the Nursing Workforce: Professional Transitions from the Role of LPN-to-RN. Research Brief. November 2016.
- Jones CB, Toles M, Knafl GJ, Beeber AS. Predicting Transitions in the Nursing Workforce: Professional Transitions from LPN to RN. Policy Brief. September 2016
- Jones CB, Toles M, Knafl G, Beeber A. Predicting transitions in the nursing workforce: Professional transitions from LPN-to-RN. AcademyHealth Annual Research Meeting. New Orleans, LA. June 2017.
- Jones CB, Toles M, Knafl G, Beeber A. An untapped resource in the nursing workforce? Licensed Practical Nurses who transition to become Registered Nurses. Podium presentation. 2017 National Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers Annual Conference. Denver, CO. June 2017.