I am having an issue with being asked to insert piccs without a signed informed consent. In Pa. RNs are not permitted to obtain consent. The ordering physician is obtaining the consent, but are stating that the placement is emergent, even though the patient has a peripheral access. Sometimes more than one peripheral access. They don't want to take time to fine a POA or family member to consent. Need feedback from fellow PICC nurses.
I would take this problem to your risk manager for guidance. One way to deal with it is to change your policy about requiring an written and signed informed consent to a signed education piece. Informed consent is really a glorified education process. So focus on the education, what was taught, patient and family response, return teaching, etc. This is within the scope for RNs. Lynn
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