Facility procedure = automatic scope?

Published Oct 6, 2016

1 Article; 2,182 Posts

Specializes in Transitional Nursing.

I'm a new LPN working in a SNF with a sub-acute rehab wing. The LPN scope in my state (SC) is relatively vague.

I'm curious if the polices and procedures in a facility can be assumed to be within the scope of an LPN.

In other-words, if I see the policy for inserting an NG tube, can I assume someone has already verified that this procedure is in the scope of an LPN? (just an example)

Sometimes I find it a bit confusing between what the nurse practice act says I can do and what the facility says I can do. I know facility procedure trumps the nurse practice act in terms of not allowing certain tasks, but what about allowing them? Would they have a policy for something our scope doesn't cover?

I would think not, but I'm finding things aren't as cut and dry as one would think.

I worked my first solo shift last night and I'm sleep deprived, so apologies if this is a confusing mess.