Why does it takes two RN's to check blood transfusion? Can't a RN and LPN ?

[riverrose]

What is the rationale for 2 RN's to check blood before infusing? Can't and RN and LPN be just as effective? What are your thoughts? Thanks

[Gauge]

I'm just a nursing student, but from what I understand LPNs aren't allowed to do anything with blood or blood products.

[UM Review RN, ASN, RN]

That depends on hospital policy and State Board of Nursing Regulations.

[queenjean]

It depends upon the facility and the state board of nursing. In my facility, only the primary RN needs to be involved; the other person just has to be a nursing staff employee (ARNP, RN, LPN, CNA).

[swee2000]

I am an LPN on a Med/Surg unit. At my hospital, the policy states that ONLY RNs and LPNs are allowed to check blood and ONLY RNs are allowed to hang it. CNAs are NEVER allowed to do anything with it, other than take the patient's vital signs.

[MikeyJ, RN]

It is all going to differ from state to state -- depends on the regulatory standards of the state. If you go to your state board of nursing site, it is actually very interesting to read up on the differences in duties.

[Conrad283, BSN, RN]

I am an LPN on a Med/Surg unit. At my hospital, the policy states that ONLY RNs and LPNs are allowed to check blood and ONLY RNs are allowed to hang it. CNAs are NEVER allowed to do anything with it, other than take the patient's vital signs.

CNA's and Unit Clerks can go and pick up the blood from the blood bank.

[SteveNNP, MSN, NP]

Where I work, we check blood with MDs, NPs, fellow RNs and ECMO techs. They no longer hire LPNs here, but we have one that helps with non pt care projects.