The LVN is an advocate for the patient and the patient’s family and promotes safety by practicing in accordance with the NPA and the BON Rules and Regulations. LVN scope of practice does not include acts of medical diagnosis or the prescription of therapeutic or corrective measures. practice of vocational nursing must be performed under the supervision of a RN, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), physician, physician assistant, podiatrist or dentist. The LVN is precluded from practicing in a completely independent manner; however, direct and on-site supervision may not be required in all settings or patient care situations. Determining the proximity of an appropriate clinical supervisor, whether available by phone or physical presence, should be made by the LVN and the LVN’s clinical supervisor by evaluating the specific situation, taking into consideration patient conditions and the level of skill, training and competence of the LVN. An appropriate clinical supervisor may need to be physically available to assist the LVN should emergent situations arise. The LVN uses a systematic problem-solving process in the care of multiple patients with predictable health care needs to provide individualized, goal-directed nursing care. LVNs may contribute to the plan of care by collaborating with interdisciplinary team members, the patient and the patient’s family.
The professional RN is an advocate for the patient and the patient’s family, and promotes safety by practicing within the NPA and the BON Rules and Regulations. The RN provides nursing services that require substantial specialized judgment and skill. The planning and delivery of professional nursing care is based on knowledge and application of the principles of biological, physical, and social science as acquired by a completed course of study in an approved school of professional nursing. Unless licensed as an advanced practice registered nurse, the RN scope of practice does not include acts of medical diagnosis or the prescription of therapeutic or corrective measures. The RN uses clinical reasoning and knowledge, evidence- based outcomes, and research as the basis for decision-making and comprehensive care. Based upon the comprehensive assessment the RN determines the physical and mental health status, needs, and preferences of culturally, ethnically, and socially diverse patients and their families using evidence-based health data and a synthesis of knowledge. Surveillance is an essential step in the comprehensive assessment process. The RN must anticipate and recognize changes in patient conditions and determines when reassessments are needed.
The Nursing Practice Act (NPA) is the body of California law that mandates the Board to set out the scope of practice and responsibilities for RNs. The NPA is located in the California Business and Professions Code starting with Section 2700. Regulations which specify the implementation of the law appear in the California Code of Regulations.
The NPA is updated annually and is published by LexisNexis in conjunction with the Board. To purchase the latest edition of the NPA, please visit the LexisNexis Store.
Laws & Regulations for Licensed vocational nurses:
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