LPN vs CMA

[bessienurse]

I recently worked in a specialty practice that I had seven years experience in prior to this practice. I am in the state of Florida and am absolutely appalled by what the CMA's can do and what LPN's can do. I was expected to room a patient whether there was a procedure or not in 10 minutes including vs and entering info into the computer system. I was there 4 weeks and there was 3 software systems to learn and I only was taught one with promises to be taught the other one. Anyway, I feel the knowledge that an LPN brings to a practice vs CMA is quite different. We are taught the how and whys of disease process, why procedures are sterile, etc. I have been a nurse for 34 years and was terminated because i didn't room patients fast enough.. Mind you at the same time I was learning surgical scheduling and clearances and doing all LPN duties that a CMA can't do. I currently am refuting my termination. I think CMA's are taught procedures, but not the physiology behind it. Are they allowed to triage?

Discouraged NY nurse.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Generally no. Most states triage is an RN only skill

In NY, MA's are specifically prohibited from triage

NYS Nursing: Practice Information: Utilization of Medical Assistants

[Archerlpvn, LPN, LVN]

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Here in Oregon LPNs are allowed to perform triage in person and telephonic. I believe WA state and Colorado allow LPNs to triage as well. I have never heard of a state lawfully allowing a CMA to perform triage or give medical advice.