What is the difference in the scope of practice between TN and NC?

U.S.A. Tennessee

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Specializes in Peds(PICU, NICU float), PDN, ICU.

I've looked at the Nursing Board sites for info but its all so unclear. I'm moving to TN and need to find out what I can and can't do. In NC we can do so much and I know other states are more limited. Does anyone know from experience the differences or is there a site that clarifies all the nursing board confusion? Thanks!

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Specializes in Float.

I agree it's so confusing. From the way it's been explained to me is that Tn is very vague and it's more policy of facility specific. The only things I know for sure is an RN must start blood but an LPN can check it with the RN. As far as IV some LPNs don't touch them... I once had an agency LPN ask me if I could push a pain med but I explained I was an intern not an RN so I couldn't give meds. I think though if the hospital certifies you maybe you can do IVs..but not certain. I also think an RN has to do the initial assessment (and I think maybe the careplan too?)

Seems from what I've seen the LPN does just about everything the RN does..but you know how it is..sometimes what you "see" isn't always the way it's SUPPOSED to be.

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Specializes in Peds(PICU, NICU float), PDN, ICU.

Thanks for the info! I know I will need to talk to whoever my employer is about what is and isn't allowed. They should have some answers. I just don't want to do something there that would be out of my scope of practice there and not in NC. It would be nice if someone could make a website that you could put in 2 states and it would tell you the differences in nursing between the 2 states. Oh...and do it in plain English:rotfl:

What you are saying sounds very similar to NC. I hope it is. Thanks again!

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Hello!

I work in North Carolina. My home is in Tennessee. I live so far back in the woods that I have to take travel assignments for good work. NC has been really sweet to me! But, my home is Tennessee! That is why I can tell you that I KNOW the people at the state Board of Nursing are very helpful and friendly. Just give them a call or go to the website (I just did a search for Tennessee Board of Nursing and found it). Just tell them your circumstances and they will help you. I moved from Ohio to Tennessee in 2002. I suffered some cultural shock. I went back to traveling. I am from the heart of it all. My standards are high. There are great places to work in Nashville that I know of. My home was too far from there for the commute. I was not satisfied with the other places I tried. What can I say, I like to be treated with kindness and respect. I have worked from sea to shining sea. It's a wonderful life!

I am really sincerely wishing you all the best in Tennessee! WELCOME TO TENNESSEE; It is closer to heaven!

Like a man said to me yesterday, "I hope the Good Lord takes a likin' to ya'".

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