LPN assessment in LTC

Where I work, LPN's are not allowed to assess/document lung or bowel sounds.

Only if your state practice act doesn't allow it, but as far I have read, and I'm guessing you're Fl, there isn't anything that says you can't. What your place of employment says, and what the BON says are two differnt things, but I have rarely seen a facility go beyond what the state says. Usually facilities are more restrictive, not less.

Thank you both for replying, I'm currently trying to find a copy of the Florida LPN Scope of Practice. Do you suggest the BON or is there somewhere I can go online?

I suggest you call, email or write your board for a copy of the practice act. And you're very welcome. :). And you're a very wise person, to find out about what restrictions your state places on you. Your state board of nursing is the only source, that should be consulted when you're in doubt about what you do under your license. As you're the one who will be accountable to them, if you step beyond it.

Hi, I work subacute too and do admissions. We have the typical packet and forms we fill out when people are admitted. I do a full head-to-toe and skin assessment when they come in and I document my findings. We always have a RN on duty in case something I assess is not normal or when I need another opinion. I feel like I am gathering information, not deciding the plan of care or goals, etc.

Thanks to all of you. This discussion board has been of great help to me. I find it very educational. Lots of smart nurses out there. I'm glad you guys are here.

where I work I do the admit, as well as the other nurses. We have a packet of forms to fill out and there is always the unit managers that review the charts and are there for any of us nurses to go to about anything. I document lung sounds, and bowel sounds.

Here in New York, LPNs are not allowed to assess. According to the scope of practice, LPNs take and record data - it is the RN who assesses the data.

In New Mexico LPN's can do the same job as RN's as far as assessments and documentation goes. LPN's can start IV's, set vents, draw blood, administer any med via any route. They can pronounce if certified (whole other thread here isn't it?).

-Russell

I currently do PRN for a LTC facility in North Carolina. At this facility we (LPNs) complete the assessments and admission paperwork. When I first graduated from LPN school, I worked there and was surprised by this. If I find any irregular findings, I always have an RN sign off on the admission packet with me.

i am sorry to hear that in nm. whenever another profession takes on the responsibilities of an rn it devalues the role of the rn. why hire an rn when you can get the lpn for less. this is politics.

The initial assessment can be done by an LPN, but must be co-signed by the RN present. Need to know what is the policy of the facility,and the Nurse Practice Act within that State. Please protect your license.