B12 Injections for my friend

[Catalin, BSN, RN]

I'm an RN in Washington and a friend of mine recently asked if I can do her B12 injections to her hip for her... I have known this family for over a decade and would love to help. As far as legal things go, am I allowed to do this? I've done some research and can't come up with a clear answer.

[AceOfHearts<3]

I used to give my friend her injections. It was either I do it, another nurse friend, or her mother and she much preferred that I do it- apparently it didn't hurt when I administered them (unlike the others). I really can't see any issues with this. We teach lay people to give injections all the time. My dad has been giving my mother her biologic injections for 10+ years now. We teach patients to administer their Lovenox injections at time.

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

Yes, you can give it to her as a friend. Home injections are given by people who aren't healthcare professionals, and health care professionals provide care for friends and family members outside of their place of work regularly. There is nothing wrong with you helping your friend. I would just make it clear that you're doing so as her friend and not her healthcare provider.

[NICU Guy, BSN, RN]

As long as she is not compensating you (restaurant gift card, treat you to dinner, etc) for giving them injections.

[ruby_jane, BSN, RN]

Is there a reason the VG site is preferred here? Just as long as you're aware of anatomical landmarks (and, as previous posters have said - you're doing this on friendship time and not on the clock), and you're comfortable with this, OK.

[Flatline, BSN, RN]

You are legally, professionally, and ethically a registered nurse 24/7 regardless of employment. You can provide the injections for free OR be compensated, not sure why someone would say that you could not be...private duty nursing is a thing...

[Catalin, BSN, RN]

Thank you all very much! I can rest easier now :)!