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RPNs and LNs who enjoy working closely with patients and other health care providers may find this career path very satisfying. For others who are interested in nursing, but are not willing to commit to the time and cost of a two- or four-year degree, the relatively short walk to work as a licensed practical nurse is attractive as an introduction to the role of nursing. Although as a general practitioner or professional nurse you are likely to work under the direction of other nurses and physicians, you are personally responsible for any harm suffered by a client as a result of your own actions. Healthcare facilities can also be held legally liable for the negligence of their employees. Acts involving negligent acts by a person exercising a profession may become claims for professional misconduct. LPNs/NVLs perform tasks such as measuring patients` vital signs, administering medications, and performing other treatments under the supervision of health professionals such as registered nurses and physicians. In addition, they can provide meals and clean/manage medical instruments and equipment. Other day-to-day tasks that an RPN/LNB may perform include monitoring patients` medical history, changing bandages and wound care, helping patients wash and dress, discuss medical care and concerns with patients, and in some cases, take on leadership roles. Nursing is a specific profession that has legal definitions in terms of scope or limits of practice. Laws governing the practice of nursing are made by the legislature of each state or province. The law that defines and regulates nursing practice in the United States is called the Nurse Practice Act.

In Canada, it is called the Registered Nurses Act. These statutes define the title “nursing” and regulate many aspects of the nursing sector. Do not help a client write a will. Never try to help a client write a will or other legal document. The law has formal requirements that a will must meet to make it valid. As a graduate, you may be asked to attend the signing of a will. After a client`s death, you and other witnesses may be asked to testify about the testator`s mental capacity or other conditions prevailing at the time of execution of the will. Be competent in your practice. You are always responsible for your own behavior. Refuse to perform procedures for which you have not been prepared. Ignorance is not a legal defense.

Neither lack of sleep nor overwork will be accepted as a legal reason for negligence with regard to safety measures or mistakes. The first month of work in an organization is called the orientation phase. The purpose of an orientation phase is for the organization to decide if you have the necessary skills for the position, and for you to decide if the job is right for you. Depending on your role and environment, your orientation period can last up to 6 weeks. There will be a teacher or mentor who will guide you and allow you to demonstrate your skills. At the end of the orientation phase, an evaluation process usually takes place to obtain feedback on your manager`s performance. No one can legally share personal information about a customer without a disclosure of information signed by the customer. If a nurse is unsure of what information is acceptable for disclosure, she should consult with the team leader or nurse.

For example, if someone calls to ask questions about the client`s condition, the installation log can allow the nurse to indicate the status indicated in the file. If the caller wishes to obtain more information, the written authorization of the client is required. The nurse must avoid revealing information that destroys the confidentiality of the relationship between the nurse and the client or between the agency and the client. LPNs usually practice independently in these tasks. Its field of activity is determined by a combination of state law and institutional policy. RPNs must work under the direction of a registered nurse or physician in certain situations, such as specialty drugs and patients with complex health. Some facilities do not hire RPNs at all, or at least not in areas where patients are likely to be medically complex and require specialized medications. The institution where you are employed has the right to restrict the duties of a nurse. For example, an institution may declare that only specially trained nurses can perform certain procedures, even though the Nursing Practice Act states that the nurse can legally perform this procedure.

However, an institution may not permit a nurse to practice without a license or beyond the legal definitions of practice of that state. If you`ve been invited to an interview, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, research the organization you`re applying for online. What type of care do they specialize in and in what care environment? How many patients do they see per year? Find out as much as possible in advance about the job you are looking for. What does the role in the organization do and what doesn`t? Wear appropriate clothing for the position and bring a copy of your resume. Practice the possible questions and answers with a friend. There are many interview videos online to help you prepare. There are some very interesting areas of nursing practice that the RPN can choose from. Every field is unique – just like every LPN! It`s a great idea to work in many areas of care over time to increase your “marketing.” Learn more about LPN`s 8 roles and IAA`s different careers. Do not give legal advice to clients. The laws governing an individual`s personal and property rights are diverse and complex.

Never try to advise a client on legal rights or financial matters. Encourage clients to consult with their families and lawyers. • Abortion and sterilization. State laws differ as to the types of consent required, who must be notified, and who must sign consent. The length of pregnancy for a legal abortion also differs from state to state. In some cases, the guest doesn`t even want anyone to know that he or she is in the establishment, making sure you are within the legal limits before sharing information. Malpractice insurance in the key concept only covers nurses if they behave “like any prudent nurse.” In other words, if you intentionally commit an illegal act or are negligent beyond accidental errors, your professional liability insurance and that of your employer are probably not valid. At the first indication that you are involved in illegal or negligent activity or are named in a legal dispute, look for a lawyer who specializes in medical or nursing malpractice.