IV Team without RN????

[SarahLovesNovember, BSN, RN]

Hi guys!! Haven't posted here in forever but also been a member forever. Anyway, I'm getting my RN right now and my mom's dream has always been to get into nursing, but due to degenerative disc disease, she is not able to do the clinicals of the program.

Ok, my question is do you guys know if it is possible to join an IV team or get certification if you are not an RN/LPN? She is a phlebotomist and an amazing one at that. I know that phlebotomy and IV Therapy are two different things (I spent 4 years in the military and LOVE giving IV's even without my RN. I think that it's a gift I have). But she has this desire and drive to really do something more and expressed interest in IV placement.

Sorry this is so long, but I've been searching everywhere for an answer and can't find one. OR if she can't do that, what else would you recommend in the medical field she could do without too much strain from lifting? She's almost completely able-bodied and in good condition, but we are not willing to take the chance of another herniated disc due to too much strain on her back.

What do you all think?? Thanks so much for reading this and I would really appreciate a reply to some extent. I know you are all busy and I CAN'T WAIT to finish my RN and be in your shoes!!! I personally hope to become a Nurse Anesthetist (but who doesn't?) due to my love of giving IV's and pharmacology.

THANKS AGAIN!!!!!

[flightnurse2b, LPN]

i would check your state's nurse practice act. i am not 100% sure, but where i have worked, phleb's cannot start IV's because it is considered an invasive procedure that technically needs to have an MD order (except in an emergency).. then again though, thats a hospital.. it may be different in a dr's office. but some jobs where you can definately start IV's include: RN, LPN, EMT-P, and CT scan/RT-R. best of luck to you and your mom!