N.H. Rev. Stat. § 326-B:13

Current through the 2024 Legislative Session

Section 326-B:13 - Scope of Practice; Licensed Practical Nurse

I. An LPN shall, with or without compensation or personal profit, practice under the supervision of an RN, APRN, licensed physician, or dentist. Such practice is guided by nursing standards established by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing and approved by the board, and shall be limited to:

(a) Collecting data and conducting focused nursing assessments of the health status of clients.

(b) Planning nursing care for clients with stable conditions.

(c) Participating in the development and modification of the comprehensive plan of care for all types of clients.

(d) Implementing appropriate aspects of the strategy of care within the LPN scope of practice.

(e) Participating in nursing care management through delegating, assigning, and directing nursing interventions that may be performed by others, including other LPNs, that do not conflict with this chapter.

(f) Maintaining safe and effective nursing care rendered directly or indirectly.

(g) Promoting a safe and therapeutic environment.

(h) Participating in health teaching and counseling to promote, attain, and maintain the optimum health level of clients.

(i) Serving as an advocate for the client by communicating and collaborating with other health service personnel.

(j) Participating in the evaluation of client responses to interventions.

(k) Communicating and collaborating with other health care professionals.

(l) Providing input into the development of policies and procedures.

(m) Other nursing services that require education and training prescribed by the board and in conformance with national nursing standards. Additional nursing services shall be commensurate with the LPN's experience, continuing education, and demonstrated LPN competencies.

II. Each nurse is accountable to clients, the nursing profession, and the board for complying with the requirements of this chapter and the quality of nursing care rendered and for recognizing limits of knowledge and experience and planning for management of situations beyond the nurse's expertise.

III. LPNs who have successfully completed the curriculum of a board- approved LPN intravenous therapy course may administer intravenous solutions under the direction of a physician or dentist, or as delegated by an RN.

IV. Any expansion of the scope of practice shall be adopted by legislation in accordance with RSA 332-G:6.

RSA 326-B:13

2005, 293:1. 2009, 54:4, eff. July 21, 2009.