responsibility

[momrn50]

Can anyone tell me if an LPN is put in the charge position over an RN, and something goes wrong, is the RN held responsible even though the LPN was in charge? This situation came up at work a couple days ago, resulting in the RN quitting her job. This is not a n LPN versus RN thing, cause there's been enough of those on here, just asking a question. Any replies are greatly appreciated.

[purplemania, BSN, RN]

In Texas the Licensed Vocational Nurse works under the license of the Registered Nurse. LVN's have less education initially, although many continue to take courses related to practice and some get RN license. They may not do initial assessment or initiate the plan of care in this state. Pushing IV meds and admin. blood transfusions depends on policy of facility, but ours does not allow LVN to do either UNLESS they have specific training. I believe we need MORE LVN's or none at all, as the conflicts I've witnessed arise when RN and LVN are doing same tasks for different salaries. ($10/hr different average). CNA, Techs, Nurse externs are all unlicensed and their duties don't vary much. Depends on facility.

[Good_Queen_Bess]

Thanks muchly for clearing my confusion!

[pickledpepperRN]

Some hospitals have LVN/LPNs forced to do the same work and assume the same responsibility as the RN without the RN pay. Unfair to patients and nurses.

Short staffing forces this although the RN is legally responsible for assessments, care planning, evaluation, and (so far) IV medication. LVNs do feel the same ethical responsibility

[moonshadeau, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, APN, NP, CNS]

LPN's cannot delegate to RN's. Don't flame me, this may be ignorance on my part. I don't work with any LPN's. I believe though that if something happened while the LPN was in charge over a RN that the state BON would be questioning the RN on why xyz didn't occur, regardless if the RN was involved or not.

Just my two cents.