Licensed Practical Nurse in School Setting
Description of practice
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) may practice in a school setting and must be under the supervision of a licensed Professional Registered Nurse (RN). Supervision is defined by the Tennessee Board of Nursing as “overseeing or inspecting with authority” [Tennessee Board of Nursing Administrative Rule 1000-2-.04(2)(c)]. It is generally considered safe practice for an RN to supervise up to five LPNs, a ratio that may be adjusted downward based upon the preparation and experience of the RNs and LPNs, the number of children, and the acuity and complexity of their health conditions. The LPN must function within the provisions of the Nurse Practice Act and the standards of practice established for LPNs. The purpose of LPNs in school settings is to carry out nursing and other health related activities, as delegated by other health professionals, which enhance the health and well-being of school age children and adolescents.
Each LPN is responsible for personal acts of negligence under the law. LPNs are liable if they perform delegated functions they are not prepared to handle by education and experience and for which supervision is not provided. In any patient care situation, the LPN should perform only those acts for which each has been prepared and has demonstrated ability to perform, bearing in mind the individual’s personal responsibility under the law. [Tennessee Board of Nursing Administrative Rule 1000-2-.04(3)(a)]
RNs retain accountability for monitoring the safety of LPN practice, evaluating care given, and following up on the outcomes of care provided by LPNs.
State law mandates that LPNs function under the supervision of RNs who are responsible for assessing client needs and determining the specific tasks to be delegated. Factors which impact delegation include the legal criteria for delegation, the RNs qualifications, and the ability of the LPNs to perform delegated tasks.
Qualifications
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Active Tennessee LPN license in good standing
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A minimum of two years experience as an LPN
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Knowledge of growth and development and health problems/conditions commonly seen among school age children
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Knowledge of the treatment and nursing care needs of children with special health problems
Employment Requirements
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Continued education to keep current in treatment and care of children in school settings
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Demonstrated competence in carrying out nursing tasks delegated by RNs