Phlebotomy to LPN

MeLisPsaN · Jan 14, 2006

I know in NY, you have to get certified through the LTC facility you are employed at to draw or start an IV.

Wind_Dancer · Jan 14, 2006

It would depend on what capacity you are working in and what your facility or institution will support you in. For example, if you are working as an LPN, and LPNs are not allowed to draw blood in your facility (and don't forget that you want to go by your P & P....something in writing), then you can't draw blood, certified or not. If you were working in a capacity as a phlebotomist, you also can't act as an LPN in most situations.

Assuming your facility does back you in writing, then you are okay, but if not, don't do it. It's not generally a procedure that's covered under the LPN Nurse Practice Act unless it has been changed recently. But again, that's up to your facility. Many hospitals actually require their RNs to draw blood or at least know how, but not LPNs. It's important to have it in writing, such as in your Policies & Procedures so you will be covered legally by your facility and its attorney(s) should something happen to the patient (not necessarily caused by you either). If it's not, don't do it. If it's not and someone gives you a verbal order to draw blood because they know you are a certified phlebotomist, still don't do it. You would be stepping beyond your duties as an LPN if your hospital or facility doesn't support it.

Taxminia0311 · Jan 14, 2006

It would depend on what capacity you are working in and what your facility or institution will support you in. For example, if you are working as an LPN, and LPNs are not allowed to draw blood in your facility (and don't forget that you want to go by your P & P....something in writing), then you can't draw blood, certified or not. If you were working in a capacity as a phlebotomist, you also can't act as an LPN in most situations.
Assuming your facility does back you in writing, then you are okay, but if not, don't do it. It's not generally a procedure that's covered under the LPN Nurse Practice Act unless it has been changed recently. But again, that's up to your facility. Many hospitals actually require their RNs to draw blood or at least know how, but not LPNs. It's important to have it in writing, such as in your Policies & Procedures so you will be covered legally by your facility and its attorney(s) should something happen to the patient (not necessarily caused by you either). If it's not, don't do it. If it's not and someone gives you a verbal order to draw blood because they know you are a certified phlebotomist, still don't do it. You would be stepping beyond your duties as an LPN if your hospital or facility doesn't support it.

I really appriciate you answer towards my question and I surely will take your advice fully...

LadyMarine · Jan 16, 2006

Well, I am a LPN in CT and work in the ER. Which these jobs are hard to find and I love it. I do blood draws, start IV's, EKG's, and all the nursing things also. I also do splints. I was trained on the job. I had done blood draws and IVs in the past but it was a long time ago. Most LTC places won't let you do blood draws or IVs due to the policies of the facility. You will need to search for the right job but don't stop until you find it. Good luck, Nancy

roseynurse345 · Jan 16, 2006

The only places that would let you draw blood as lpn are doctor offices, I see ads in the paper loooking for lpn/medical assistant.

lgoffe · Jan 17, 2006

Around where I live there are companies that come into LTC and do the draws. I too was a 'vampire' before I finished my LPN training.

Linda