Scope of Practice Framework for Licensed Practical Nurses
The Newfoundland and Labrador College of Nurses1 is responsible to set the scope of practice for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Newfoundland and Labrador.
A scope of practice framework provides a structured, reflective approach to determining safe, competent and authorized nursing practice. This document outlines the scope of practice framework for Licensed Practical Nurses in Newfoundland and Labrador. It will assist LPNs, educators, employers, and the public, in identifying whether an activity is within the scope of practice for the profession of practical nursing. The framework will further assist in identifying whether an activity that is within the scope of practice for the profession is within the scope of practice of an individual LPN.
A reflective reference guide, to assist LPNs to apply the Scope of Practice Framework, is presented in Appendix A.
The scope of practice for the profession of practical nursing evolves to meet the ever-changing needs of client2 populations and the health care system, and to reflect changes in legislation, regulation, and education. The scope of practice for the profession is influenced by the Standards of Practice for Licensed Practical Nurses, the Code of Ethics for Licensed Practical Nurses, legislation, the Entry-Level Competencies for LPNs, and other relevant College documents or standards.
Definition of Scope of Practice
The scope of practice for licensed practical nurses is defined by the College as the range of roles, functions, responsibilities, and activities for which LPNs are educated, authorized, and competent to perform.
LPN Entry-to-Practice Education
In Newfoundland and Labrador, LPNs graduate from a College approved diploma program in Practical Nursing. The practical nursing education program is guided by the College’s Entry-Level Competencies for Licensed Practical Nurses, which describes the knowledge, skills, judgments, and attributes required of entry to practice LPNs. The entry-level competencies direct the educational program in identifying activities that constitute current LPN practice or are becoming part of LPN practice. They serve as a reference point for ongoing professional development and growth within an LPN’s practice.
LPNs are educated from the same body of knowledge as other nursing designations and apply the same client-centred approach in their practice: assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. LPNs care for clients across the lifespan, and practice in a variety of settings, including education, administration, and in areas of high client acuity.
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