1. Can LPNs administer immunizations?
2. Can LPNs administer medications through PICC lines?  Can LPNs flush PICC lines?

1. Can LPNs administer immunizations?

Answer:

The "Advanced Practice" position statement outlines advanced competencies for LPNs. Administering immunizations is considered an advanced competency and as such requires additional education.  The SALPN has developed the "Immunization Guidelines" position statement.  This document outlines the education requirements and guidelines to follow when LPNs administer immunizations.  The education provided must be approved by the SALPN and must include:

• Theory of immunizations
• The risks and benefits of receiving the vaccination
• Indications and Contraindications of the vaccine
• Procedures to manage anaphylaxis
• Informed consent procedure
• Proper notification of adverse events
• Documentation procedures
• Storage and Transportation of vaccinations

The SALPN also recommends following the recommendations by Saskatchewan Public Health, which recommend that all patients/clients under the age of 18 years be referred to Public Health for immunizations.

Please refer to the "Immunization Guidelines" position statement for more detailed information.  This document can be found in this section under Position Statements.

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2. Can LPNs administer medications through PICC lines? Can LPNs flush PICC lines?

 Answer:

The SALPN has developed a new position statement regarding central lines. Since PICC lines are central lines the same guidelines apply to PICC lines and all other central lines.  LPNs with additional education and employer certification may care for a client with a central line. As in all practice areas assignment of care provider must consider the care needs of the client.

 Caring for a central line is considered an advanced competency for LPNs.  The LPN must:

• Have attained the IV Therapy module through SIAST or equivalent and
• Participate in employer certification in care of central lines

Yearly recertification is required to ensure competency in this skill.

The employer and the LPN should work together to determine his/her educational requirements. It is the responsibility of both the LPN and the employer to ensure safe and competent care.  LPNs are responsible for attaining and maintaining competence required in their practice area and are accountable to provide the care for which they have achieved and maintained competence.

Please refer to the SALPN position statement on Central Lines Guidelines for more detailed information.  This document can be found in this section under Position Statements.

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