LTC facility, can an LPN adjust TPN?

Nurses LPN/LVN

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I am in the great state of Florida. I am an LPN in a LTC facility. I have a new TPN pt. I work 11p-7a. His orders are at 6p to run at 100ml/hr for 1 hr, then adjust to 180ml.hr for 10 hrs, then 100 ml/hr for 1 hr, then it comes down at 6am. I understand this. My question is can an LPN who is not IV certified adjust and take down the TPN? Or does it have to be an RN?? I asked my ADON... we called the Pharmacy and they said LPNs can but I thought I was taught NO LPNS could do anything with TPN?? Who is right??

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Anytime you have a question like this you need to ALWAYS call your BON.

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i dont see an 24/7 number unless I am blind

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If you need an IV certification in Florida and you don't have one, then don't do it. End of story. You are risking your license.

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Specializes in LTC Family Practice.

Call your BON right away - that's what they are there for. The scope of practice for LPN/LVN's is so varied from state to state the only way to get a reliable answer is from your BON.

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That's my question. Do I need to be IV certified to take it down? And as an LPN is adjusting allowed. No one seems to know the answer. I'm just confused.

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Specializes in Geriarics, Pediatrics.

Definitely call BON.

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Can anyone help me find a number for the Florida BON that is answering on the weekend. I've been searching.

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Specializes in LTC, Rehab, Gerontology.

I found this discussion... hope it helps. https://allnurses.com/lpn-lvn-corner/states-do-lpns-621609.html. I would still call your BON on Monday to clarify.

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You've stated you are not permitted to touch IVs. End of discussion.

TPN usually goes in a central line, well you shouldn't be taking it down.

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Specializes in Lvn to RN, new grad med/surg.

I don't know about Florida, I'm in California, but there's no way I would carry out that order. I would make sure the RN took care of it. Just like all the other ones said if you have IV certifications in Florida AND you don't have yours PLUS peripheral vs. central lines I wouldn't touch it.

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Your nurse practice act is here: http://www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa/nursing/info_practiceAct.pdf

Based on what pages 93-95 say, I would not carry out that order. It states on page 95 that for an LPN to administer anything through a central line, you must have special training. At least, that is my interpretation. Definitely call your BON, but use the practice act to back up your refusal in the meantime.

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