Non-medical staff giving injections?!!

[phoenixrn]

So I was just at a "medically supervised" weight loss clinic. The "counselor" gave me a subQ injection in the upper arm. I had to tell her to wash her hands and put on gloves. I asked her if she was a medical assistant and she gave a runaround answer. I asked the receptionist what their "counselors" level of training was.... got a runaround answer like "they all have bachelor's degrees."

Another option for these injections is in the hip. I told this girl that was a more dangerous area as there are nerves that can be injured if something goes wrong.

So I was "that" client today. I felt terrible about it.... but I really have the heebeejeebies about this.

This is in California. Does anyone know the law regarding office staff (without ANY medical training - not even an MA!!) giving injections?

[klone, MSN, RN]

If it's subcut, it's not going to hit any nerves. Just trying to figure out why they would give one in the hip.

[Sour Lemon]

So I was "that" client today. I felt terrible about it.... but I really have the heebeejeebies about this.

I would have that feeling just going to a "weight loss clinic" and getting injected with anything by anyone.

Gloves are more to protect the nurse (or pretend nurse) than the patient. Hand-washing is a good idea, though!

[Buyer beware, BSN]

After hearing about this unorthodox administration of the SQ injection as we speak I am emailing the president of the AMA to express our heartfelt concerns.

Maybe just maybe, a plenary gathing of all concerned nursing leadership could better define the appropriateness of this situation.

And the sooner the better!