The Authority for Certain Clinical Tasks Performed by Unlicensed Patient Care Technicians and LPNs/LVNs in the Hemodialysis Setting: An Update and Invitation to Take Action

Abstract

As the demand on time and resources of licensed health care professionals increases and cost-containment measures challenge organizations, the use of unlicensed assistive personnel for patient care activities increases. Emphasis on safe and effective care delivery remains crucial when registered nurses (RNs) delegate certain tasks and aspects of patient care. The principles of delegation from the American Nurses Association and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing include the responsibility and accountability of the RN for patient care outcomes. Authority for delegation of clinical tasks in the chronic hemodialysis setting varies significantly by state. The responsibility remains with the RN to oversee complex tasks despite the staff skill mix. Knowing individual state Nurse Practice Acts remains the responsibility of the individual. This article discusses the results of a review of the available information on state positions on delegation of clinical tasks in hemodialysis.

Keywords: delegation; hemodialysis; licensed practical nurse (LPN); licensed vocational nurse (LVN); patient care technician (PCT); scope of practice; unlicensed assistive personnel.