Can a LVN initiate/develop the nursing care plan?
Staff recommends you review Board Rule 217.11, Standards of Nursing Practice, as well as Position Statement 15.27, The LVN Scope of Practice. Board Rule 217.11(2)(A)(ii) and (iii) clarifies that LVNs may not initiate care plans; however, they should contribute to the planning and implementation of the nursing care. LVNs may participate in the development and modification of the ongoing nursing care plan. Only the RN may develop the initial nursing care plan and make nursing diagnoses [Rule 217.11(3)(A)(ii) and (iii)]. The difference between LVN and RN scope of practice is based on differences in educational preparation of nurses licensed at each level as defined in the Differentiated Essential Competencies of Graduates of Texas Nursing Programs (DECs). The DECs may be viewed in its entirety or downloaded from "Nursing Education," then "Faculty, Program & Student Information" on the BON web site.
Updated 11/27/12