La. Admin. Code tit. 48 § I-8043

Current through Register Vol. 50, No. 11, November 20, 2024

Section I-8043 - Licensed Practical Nurse

A. The licensed practical nurse (LPN) shall work under the direct supervision of a registered nurse and perform skilled nursing services as delegated by a registered nurse.

B. A licensed practical nurse must:

1. be currently licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners with no restrictions; and

2. have at least two years full-time experience as an LPN; and

3. when employed by more than one agency, inform all employers and coordinate duties to assure quality provision of services.

C. The LPN shall perform skilled nursing services under the supervision of a registered nurse, in a manner consistent with standard of practice including, but not limited to, such duties as:

1. observing, recording and reporting to the registered nurse or director of nurses on the general physical and mental conditions of the patient;

2. administering prescribed medications and treatments as permitted by state or local regulations;

3. assisting the physician and/or registered nurse in performing specialized procedures;

4. preparing equipment for treatments, including sterilization, and adherence to aseptic techniques;

5. assisting the patient with activities of daily living;

6. documenting each visit made to the patient and incorporate notes into the clinical record within one week of the visit;

7. performing complex wound care, if an in-service is documented for the specific procedure;

8. performing routine venipuncture (phlebotomy) if written documentation of competency is in personnel record. Competency must be evaluated by an RN even if the LPN has completed a certification course; and

9. may receive verbal orders from the physician regarding their assigned patients.

D. An LPN shall not:

1. access any intravenous appliance for any reason;

2. perform supervisory aide visits;

3. develop and/or alter the POC;

4. make an assessment visit;

5. evaluate recertification criteria;

6. make aide assignments; or

7. function as a supervisor of the nursing practice of any registered nurse.

La. Admin. Code tit. 48, § I-8043

Promulgated by the Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of the Secretary, Bureau of Health Services Financing, LR 31:452 (February 2005).

AUTHORITY NOTE: Promulgated in accordance with R.S. 40:2175.14(B).