In September 2004, the New York State Education Department rendered opinions regarding the appropriate role of the licensed practical nurse (LPN) in the administration of intravenous (IV) therapy in the acute and long-term care settings. The opinions address select tasks that can be performed by an LPN in both acute and long-term care if under the appropriate supervision by a registered nurse (RN) and demonstrated competency in intravenous therapy administration.
Note that the opinions of the State Board for Nursing require RN supervision, which necessitates that an RN be on-site at all times when IV therapy is being provided by the LPN in both acute and long-term care. Both opinions delineate the specific tasks the LPN may or may not perform related to venous access devices (peripheral, midline and central).
You may review both opinions in their entirety via the NYS Education Department Office of the Professions web site:
For questions, contact Education, Practice and Research: 518.782.9400, ext. 282