LPN assessment in LTC

Oct 03, 2003 01:19 PM

by Sersey

Hi everyone, I am new to posting, done a lot of reading though.
My question is I'm an LPN in LTC, I work the sub acute/rehab floor, I read in another tread that LPN's could not do initial assessments on new admits. We are required to. Am I endangering my license?

Thanks for any info.

oceanblue · Oct 03, 2003, 01:55 PM

Where I work, LPN's are not allowed to assess/document lung or bowel sounds.

Brownms46 · Oct 03, 2003, 02:11 PM

Only if your state practice act doesn't allow it, but as far I have read, and I'm guessing you're Fl, there isn't anything that says you can't. What your place of employment says, and what the BON says are two differnt things, but I have rarely seen a facility go beyond what the state says. Usually facilities are more restrictive, not less.

Sersey · Oct 03, 2003, 02:35 PM

Thank you both for replying, I'm currently trying to find a copy of the Florida LPN Scope of Practice. Do you suggest the BON or is there somewhere I can go online?

Brownms46 · Oct 03, 2003, 03:19 PM

I suggest you call, email or write your board for a copy of the practice act. And you're very welcome.

. And you're a very wise person, to find out about what restrictions your state places on you. Your state board of nursing is the only source, that should be consulted when you're in doubt about what you do under your license. As you're the one who will be accountable to them, if you step beyond it.

shellylaverne · Oct 03, 2003, 03:50 PM

me too

Hi, I work subacute too and do admissions. We have the typical packet and forms we fill out when people are admitted. I do a full head-to-toe and skin assessment when they come in and I document my findings. We always have a RN on duty in case something I assess is not normal or when I need another opinion. I feel like I am gathering information, not deciding the plan of care or goals, etc.

Sersey · Oct 03, 2003, 06:50 PM

Thanks to all of you. This discussion board has been of great help to me. I find it very educational. Lots of smart nurses out there. I'm glad you guys are here.

Cameron67 · Oct 03, 2003, 06:55 PM

where I work I do the admit, as well as the other nurses. We have a packet of forms to fill out and there is always the unit managers that review the charts and are there for any of us nurses to go to about anything. I document lung sounds, and bowel sounds.

bernadettes · Oct 14, 2003, 08:20 PM

Here in New York, LPNs are not allowed to assess. According to the scope of practice, LPNs take and record data - it is the RN who assesses the data.

Rustyhammer · Oct 14, 2003, 08:27 PM

In New Mexico LPN's can do the same job as RN's as far as assessments and documentation goes. LPN's can start IV's, set vents, draw blood, administer any med via any route. They can pronounce if certified (whole other thread here isn't it?).
-Russell

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LPN assessment in LTC

LPN assessment in LTC

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