Need update re: LPN clinical practice for KY

[Sunflower3]

Hi everyone,

I am considering a return to KY, and would like an update re: the restriction of LPN's regarding their clinical practice? When I worked there in the early 1990's, for example, LPN's did not push IV meds, hang blood or change empty IVF bags, etc. This gave me 8 extra patients, in addition to my own 8 (Med/Surg) to do IV's for, to give PRN IV pain meds/IVF's, etc. Has anything changed for LPN's in this regard?

Also, does KY have nursing unions? I've never been involved in one, but the idea of getting a lunch break, and a reasonable patient load makes it sound attractive. Any pros/cons to this?

What are nurse/pt ratios like for 11-7 shift for M/S in KY?

Thanks in advance,

UnitRN01

[BBFRN, BSN, PhD]

http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/kar/201/020/490.htm

See link above for Ky LPN practice expansion. You can do more in KY now as a LPN, than in the '90s, but most facilities adhere to the old rules, meaning you probably won't be doing IVPs, etc.

There are some union facilities in KY- do you know what area you'll be working in?

Ratios are different in every hospital I've worked in (Louisville area). For a LPN in med/surg here, you're looking at 6-7 patients at U of L, 8-10 at Jewish, and 5-6 at Norton downtown. At least that was my experience.