LVN IV certification

[Alyssa B.]

Newer LVN in CA with IV certification. Curious as to what we can actually give with extra certification. BVNPT is very vague. 

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

CA Nursing regulations regarding IV infusion by LVN's include:

§ 2542.1. Intravenous Therapy.

Course certification covers venipuncture, fluid administration, and recognizing complications such as infiltration or phlebitis.

California Code, Business and Professions Code - BPC § 2860.5

Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in California can administer IV therapy but only under the supervision of a physician or a registered nurse.   Each health system is responsible for developing standardized IV administration procedures including medications and  device routes that  RN and LVN may administer --- varies by facility.

Quote

 

(3) Start and superimpose intravenous fluids if all of the following additional conditions are satisfied:

(A) The licensed vocational nurse has satisfactorily completed a prescribed course of instruction approved by the board or has demonstrated competence to the satisfaction of the board.

(B) The procedure is performed in an organized health care system in accordance with the written standardized procedures adopted by the organized health care system as formulated by a committee which includes representatives of the medical, nursing, and administrative staffs. "Organized health care system,” as used in this section, includes facilities licensed pursuant to Section 1250 of the Health and Safety Code, clinics, home health agencies, physician's offices, naturopathic doctor's offices, and public or community health services. Standardized procedures so adopted will be reproduced in writing and made available to total medical and nursing staffs.

(C) If the licensed vocational nurse is directed by a naturopathic doctor, the naturopathic doctor is qualified to administer intravenous therapy under Section 3640.8.

 

Cal. Code Regs. Tit. 22, § 76876 - Nursing Services-Administration of Medications and Treatments

Who Can Administer IV Therapy in California?

Quote

LVNs are not authorized to administer high-risk IV medications, including chemotherapy, anesthetic agents, and certain cardiac drugs. They are also restricted from handling central lines and peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC lines), as these require advanced training beyond the LVN scope. Healthcare facilities must ensure LVNs operate within legal parameters to avoid disciplinary action by the BVNPT.

Hope this helps.

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

I started nursing as an LVN in CA. 

Authorized Practices

• IV-certified LVNs can initiate and manage IV fluids.
• Under specific hospital policies, LVNs are authorized to administer blood and blood products.

Prohibited Practices

• Administration of IV pushes and IV antibiotics is not authorized.

LVNs require clinical supervision for these procedures.