New LVN in ED

Specialties Emergency

Published

Hi guys, 

Needing some guidance. I just recently started a position in the ED. I was just hired on to be the units first LVN which I'm very excited about. I know I can't IV push, but does anyone else know of any hard NOs that LVNs can't do. For example, can LVNS waste meds with an RN? I had an RN ask me if I could waste and I'm not sure. The board is hard to get in touch with so thought I would ask around first. Since I'm their first they aren't exactly sure what I can and can't do either. It's my first time in this setting so I am having to clarify what's acceptable and what's not. Can I draw blood from a pre-existing port? These were situations I was met with today. Any advice is appreciated! 

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Specializes in CEN, Firefighter/Paramedic.

Welcome!  We have some awesome LPNs in our ED and they keep us from drowning every day!

The question to your answer is going to be based on your states BON and your hospitals policy.  You sound like the trailblazer there which is cool, but also kinda stinks that they didn't solidify your role before they hired you.

So my advice to you is to download your states LPN scope of practice and any existing LPN policies and procedures already in place in other units at your hospital, take them to your ED manager and go through them to figure out what they want to let you do.

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Completely agree with the comment above in its entirety.

They need to come up with a game plan for you right away. You do need to know your own state's NPA with regard to this cause it's almost a given that they will put some things past you that are not supported in your practice act, especially if they legitimately aren't sure what you can and can't do.

Good luck, though, it'll be great

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