what to do ?

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I am an LPN . We have a vent unit in our facility which the state requires needs an RN on all three shifts. I have been pulled after I punch in to that unit with just 2 lpn's and no RN in sight. What are the legal ramifications to this sticky subject? Iwas told that I cannot refuse to go to that unit after I punched in because it is considered job abandonment. Im not sure what exactly I should do. Any help on this would be great.

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do you have the necessary skills to provide what is needed?

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I would ask how are they documenting for the state that they

are covered for RN requirements.

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Specializes in Hospital, med-surg, hospice.

Who is in charge and who makes the assignments? What happens if the patient codes? I would call the supervisor to remind them what your responsibilities are....she/he may be the one who would face liability if a problem occurred, especially if an RN is needed. Just make sure to keep a record of date/time/ assignment and what occurred during your shift...always CYA!

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You punch in at the beginning of your shift and then you find out who your patients are. If you feel that one of the patients you are being assigned to has health needs that are above your scope of practice then you can refuse that assignment -- this is not abandonment because you did not accept the patient from the beginning. It is only considered abandonment when you accept the assignment and later decide you can't or won't take care of the patient. I would not continue to do this if I was in your place -- you are risking loosing your license.

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