Licensed and Able: What LVNs Can Legally Do with IVs and Blood?
Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) are integral healthcare team members, providing essential nursing care in diverse settings throughout California. Operating within a regulated scope of practice is fundamental for LVNs to deliver safe, proficient, and ethical care within the bounds of their legal authority. The certification process for IV therapy and blood withdrawal in California involves completing a Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT) approved training program. This program typically includes both theoretical coursework and supervised clinical experiences. The theoretical component covers essential topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, IV therapy principles, blood withdrawal procedures, infection control, and legal/ethical considerations. Clinical training involves hands-on practice in skills like venipuncture, IV line management, medication administration, and specimen collection. Upon completion of the training program, LVNs must pass a BVN...