do lpns apply unna boots

michael79 · Nov 30, 2008

What area are you in? An Unna boot is a common treatment performed by the nurse. I was in home health for a time and I applied many an Unna boot. Why won't the RN do it? You aren't putting your license in jeopardy. It should be within your scope...not sure what state you are in. As for how to do it...it's easy. Google it. One tip I have is go slow and make sure you don't get any wrinkles or bunching of the wrap.

pagandeva2000, LPN · Nov 30, 2008

In my hospital, I have seen the doctors do it, never a nurse, but this is because it is the Vascular Clinic, where the residents and PAs are normally assigned this responsibility. I don't see an issue of why a nurse, may it be LPN or RN would not do it, however. In fact, I have not done a dressing, yet since becoming a nurse two years ago, due to my primary exposure and job has been clinics. I'd be thrilled to be able to.

Lexxie, LPN · Dec 1, 2008

My facility would not allow us to apply unna boots. In their mind, it was the responsibility of the physician or wound clinic who ordered them to apply them.

morris-lpn · Dec 1, 2008

thank you all for your response, i work in a correctional facility. i've been a lpn since feb 08. was working on my bsn, when i had to change career plans. in all my clinical settings, i've never seen a unna boot applied. the bon is not clear on my scope of practice here in louisiana. again thank you...

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Dec 1, 2008

I'm in Texas, and every nursing home where I've been employed has allowed LPNs/LVNs to apply unna boots. All of the wound care nurses at these places of employment were also LVNs. The only RN in the building would be the DON (director of nurses), which is someone who usually has very atrophied bedside skills due to lack of use.

lpnflorida · Dec 1, 2008

commuter love your term (atrophied bedside skills due to lack of use) will put it in my memory bank...lol