Delagation of Flu shots to a CMA?

grannyrn65 · Nov 6, 2010

I do perdiem work for a wellness company administering flu shots. The Company sent me several subcontracted RN's, LPN's and a CMA. I did not think much about it until I got home and looked up the title CMA, and realized this is a technician level certification (non-licensed). I cant find any solid information for my state regarding scope of practice or, if I can delegate this task to them? my gut instinct is that a MD would have to delegate and oversee this task, and as i read on the Pearson website (their certifying body) that their role is to assist the physician. This person is scheduled for other clinics, I have asked him to find out if he is allowed to practice autonomously in our state . . . he stated to me that he has a national certification - and thought that he could give IM injections as an independent subcontractor? any thoughts.
BTW my state board of nursing states that there are no provisions in the state nursing practice act aloowing or restricting CMA's - simply put there is no language to provide me guidance in the act!

In Florida,CMA's work under the direction of a physician. It is at his direction and under his license they perform their job. Since he has been assigned to you, if he gives I.M.'s he gives them under your license, unless there is a company physician willing to step forward. He may view himself as an independent sub but I doubt an attorney would. I would notify my employer that without direction from a company physician, lack of direction from your NPA, you are unwilling to assume responsibility.

Good luck.

GrannyRN65

nurseraphael · Nov 6, 2010

In Florida,CMA's work under the direction of a physician. It is at his direction and under his license they perform their job. Since he has been assigned to you, if he gives I.M.'s he gives them under your license, unless there is a company physician willing to step forward. He may view himself as an independent sub but I doubt an attorney would. I would notify my employer that without direction from a company physician, lack of direction from your NPA, you are unwilling to assume responsibility.
Good luck.
GrannyRN65

My thoughts exactly - This CMA has been doing shots in another state with no supervision!

grannyrn65 · Nov 6, 2010

My thoughts exactly - This CMA has been doing shots in another state with no supervision!

I think some employers will take advantage of a nurse if you allow them to. I work at a state facility where senior aides had to attend an eight week course, pass a written exam and then were allowed to pass oral meds only. Any PRN or injection had to be given by an RN. I was one of two R.N. supervisors, on evenings, covering over 900 patients. I thought highly of our aides but neither I nor them, wanted anyone else giving shots.

I think that CMA thought rather highly of himself and his abilities and knowledge.He must have fallen for the hip I've seen on other boards. I seen them compare themselves toan LPN.

Heaven save us.

GrannyRN65:rolleyes: