Nursing Issues Panel Debbie Vierra, RN Delaware Valley Job Corps Center Region 1 Health and Wellness Conference May 14, 2004

2 General Statement The practice of nursing as a licensed practical nurse is defined as performing tasks and responsibilities within the framework of casefinding, health teaching, health counseling, and provision of supportive and restorative care under the direction of a registered professional nurse or licensed physician, dentist, or other licensed health care provider legally authorized under this title and in accordance with the commissioner’s regulations Title VIII Education Law, Article 139—Nursing

3 Nurse Practice Act: Guidelines for Professional Nursing Direction of LPNs These guidelines give notice of general, acceptable standards of professional practice “Under the direction of a registered professional nurse” in Section 6902(2) is understood to mean that a registered nurse should be present on the premises or immediately available by telephone when professional services are rendered by a licensed practical nurse The degree of supervision shall be appropriate to the circumstances

4 What This Means: What LPNs Cannot Do LPNs cannot assess unless an RN is present LPNs cannot do “on call” LPNs cannot do walk-ins unless an RN is present

5 What LPNs Can Do as Per Nurse Practice Act LPNs can provide bedside nursing care, including services requiring sterile techniques LPNs can observe, measure, record, and report indications of patient health status LPNs can administer medications as directed LPNs can perform more specialized tasks, such as IV therapy, with additional training LPNs can administer blood and blood products with additional training

6 What This Means LPNs can make an appointment for the student to see either the RN or doctor LPNs can administer medications after a doctor orders them LPNs can assist the doctor with examinations LPNs can perform venipuncture if an RN is present (also has to be documented that they have been observed and are proficient in the procedure)