LPN News

Registrants and other stakeholders can contact the Practice Department at the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) to receive clarification on Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) practice.

In Practice Corner, we’ll share some frequently asked questions and our answers.

Practice Corner: Can an LPN Have Multiple Professional Registrations?

Yes, LPNs can have multiple professional registrations. For example, someone may hold an LPN practice permit and a Registered Nurse (RN) practice permit at the same time. Professionals with multiple registrations must meet the requirements of each regulatory body.

For full information, please see our info sheet.

Working in Multiple Regulated and Unregulated Healthcare Roles

Important Considerations for Multiple Registrations

An LPN with multiple professional registrations may only perform the duties outlined in their scope of practice or job description for the scheduled shift except in cases of emergency.

For example, someone with both LPN and RN registrations who accepts an LPN shift must only work within LPN scope of practice, as defined in legislation, regulation, and employer policies.

Emergencies

In emergencies, an LPN with multiple licenses can work within their most relevant scope of practice if no other health professional is available. They can continue until another qualified person can take over the patient’s care.

For example, someone registered as both an LPN and social worker can provide nursing care during a social worker shift only in cases of emergency, like when a client’s condition unexpectedly deteriorates.

Liability Coverage

LPNs are required to obtain professional liability insurance that explicitly covers LPN practice. Typically, the LPN insurance policy only provides coverage when working within the scope of practice of an LPN and will not apply when working in a different capacity. LPNs are responsible for ensuring they have the appropriate liability insurance for all of their professional roles.

Complaints

If a complaint is filed against an LPN with multiple professional registrations, the LPN has a duty to report the complaint to all regulatory bodies with which they are registered.

How the CLPNA will conduct their initial investigation depends on a number of factors, including whether the conduct relates to the provision of practical nursing services.

Accountability to Professional Standards

Professionals are responsible and accountable for their practice and conduct under all the regulatory bodies they are registered with. Registrants are expected to comply with the legislative, regulatory, and employer requirements related to all practice permits they hold.

Role Confusion

When LPNs work in multiple roles within one facility, it might be difficult for clients or staff to know what role they are working in at any given time. LPNs should ensure that clients and colleagues understand their roles and responsibilities each shift by communicating their current role, using the appropriate title, documenting correctly, and following any relevant employer requirements. LPNs should also clarify their roles and responsibilities with their employer or potential employers. It is also helpful to work on two separate units when working two different roles.