mossflower13

Hello Well I'm from NY and that's not permitted here, although it's done and no one questions why. I can't see any state allowing unlicensed personal to administer medications or even draw them up, who will be held responsible if a mistake is made? How are the persons deemed qualified to administer medications? Is there a certification requirement, training course? I don't think I would be very comfortable with this, do the techs sign their names that the drug was administered? Forgive me but you're blowing my mind. I know when I sign my name RN goes behind it, and I am accountable for what I give, NY laws are pretty tough if you screw up. If the techs give the meds and sign does a nurse co-sign? We must co-sign the flow sheets, pre and post for the UF target, cannulations, etc, but the nurse signs and gives all medications. We also do all the catheters, I know there are some places that allow techs to initiate permacaths but we don't, and don't quote me, but I believe in NY licensed staff for pcs only, although I know of units that do allow some techs to train and complete a certificate course to put on the catheters, not sure how they get around the state but it's done.

Folks, only a licensed person, RN, LPN,etc can draw up medications, heparin, lidocaine, etc are medications. This seems to be a aspect we as professionals are sleeping on. Remember the person who administered the medication will be the one in court whether you drew it up or not. One of the first things in Nursing School was didn't draw,pour or open the pack then don't administer or sign your name. I don't understand why this is a question in so many units, I hear this all the time. I think if the higher ups give you a hard time about not following this dangerous practice then ask them for this policy in writing and if they hand it to you then make ten copies, send it to the health department and retire early