Good morning,
I see the assessment information in the Standards (53.1, J. p. S115) so the RN would be assessing for blood prior to starting an infusion via a CVAD or IVAD. However, is there any reason the LPN cannot flush the CVAD or IVAD after the intermittent infusion? At that point they are disconnecting and flushing/locking the catheter but not assessing for blood return. We are simultaneously reviewing our state Board of Nursing Laws and Rules.
Thank you,
Carole
I see no valid reason why and LPN/LVN could not or should not do the complete assessment of patency and site condition. Of course, this all depends on what you state BON has written about their practice. As with anything - competency assessment and documentation is required.
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, NPD-BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861
I agree with Lynn, the nurse administering the medication should do the full assessment of line patency.
I think you might be getting assessing a line for patency; flushes well and gives a good brisk blood return mixed up with actually with obtaining blood from a central line for lab. Obtaining blood specimen from the line is to be done by the competent RN, however assessing line for patency and blood return can be done by the LPN.
Gina Ward R.N., VA-BC
LPN/LVN practice varies greatly from state to state. Some would allow obtaining blood samples from a CVAD.
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, NPD-BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861