CNAs doing things not under licensure?

[student29349]

I'm a BSN nursing student, and today I had a clinical rotation at the hospital. The CNA on the floor there was taking out IVs and Foley catheters. I don't work as a CNA, but I did take the class and I'm pretty sure that you're not allowed to do that (at least in my home state). If I see this, am I obligated to say something to someone about it? I feel like it's wrong but I didn't know what to do at the time. Is this a common happening and what should I do about it? Thanks so much!

[evolvingrn, BSN, RN]

yes they can, I was a cna before being a Rn and i took out foley's all the time. they just had to demonstrate mastery of the skill to an Rn first.....Seriously...how hard is it to take out a foley? our cna's used to put in foley's too (they underwent a certification process) and i know their are some hospitals that still allow this.

[systoly]

If you have a concern. just ask that person. "Wow, that is so cool that you can do that, did you have to take a special course for that?"

[foreverLaur]

In Ohio, it can be done. At a few hospitals I am familiar with, the role puts in and takes out foleys and does phlebotomy. You don't have to have prior training -- they will train you. I luckily learned foleys, phlebotomy, and sterile technique in my CNA classes.

[LPNweezy]

That sounds okay to me, that must be the most simplest task ever, i'm sure they can if the are properly trained. :) I have seen CNAs do it all the time. but i'm in FL