What is the most essential action by the nurse prior to delegating the administration of an intravenous (IV) medication to a licensed practical nurse (LPN)?
a. Review the state's nurse practice act for LPN scope of practice.
b. Review the unit policy and procedure for IV medication administration.
c. Determine whether the LPN has previously performed this procedure.
d. Demonstrate the procedure; then allow the LPN to administer the IV medication.
A
The State Board of Nursing regulates the types and routes of medications that can be administered by the various levels of nurses. For example, LPNs in some states cannot administer IV medications, whereas other states require additional education and experience before LPNs can perform this action. The nurse must refer to her state's nurse practice act for the scope of practice. Once scope of practice is identified, the nurse can proceed with reviewing the unit policies and assessing the experience level of the LPN. If state regulations do not allow LPNs to administer IV medications, there is no reason for the nurse to proceed with the other actions.
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