lpn scope of practice in maryland

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25-08-2024

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Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) play a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing essential care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. Understanding the scope of practice for LPNs in Maryland is vital for ensuring patient safety and effective healthcare delivery.

Overview of LPN Role

In Maryland, LPNs are responsible for a variety of patient care tasks that fall within their scope of practice. These duties include:

• Administering medications: LPNs can administer oral, topical, and injectable medications, except for those that require a higher level of supervision.
• Monitoring patient conditions: They are trained to observe and report changes in patient conditions, vital signs, and reactions to treatment.
• Assisting with daily living activities: LPNs provide support with bathing, dressing, feeding, and other daily activities for patients who need assistance.
• Providing wound care: They are authorized to perform basic wound care and apply dressings as needed.

Legal Framework

The scope of practice for LPNs in Maryland is governed by the Maryland Nurse Practice Act. This act outlines the legal limitations and responsibilities of LPNs and establishes the framework within which they operate.

Key Points of the Nurse Practice Act:

• Delegation: LPNs can perform tasks delegated to them by registered nurses (RNs) or licensed physicians, but they must ensure that these tasks are within their scope of practice.
• Supervision: LPNs work under the supervision of RNs or physicians, ensuring that care is provided safely and effectively.
• Continuing Education: LPNs are required to engage in ongoing education to maintain their licensure and stay updated with the latest practices in nursing.

Restrictions on Practice

While LPNs have a broad scope of practice, there are specific restrictions that they must adhere to in Maryland:

• No IV Push Medications: LPNs are not permitted to administer intravenous (IV) push medications; this task is reserved for RNs and advanced practice nurses.
• Assessment and Evaluation: LPNs are not authorized to perform comprehensive assessments or evaluations of patient health statuses; these responsibilities fall to RNs.
• Limited to Certain Settings: The practice of LPNs is generally limited to specific healthcare settings, such as long-term care facilities, hospitals, and outpatient clinics.

Conclusion

Understanding the LPN scope of practice in Maryland is essential for ensuring high-quality patient care. LPNs are integral members of the healthcare team, and by adhering to their defined roles and responsibilities, they contribute significantly to patient outcomes. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, ongoing education and adherence to regulatory guidelines will help LPNs maintain their effectiveness and ensure compliance with the law.