Name of the Procedure:

LPN/LVN Services, up to 15 minutes
Technical/Military Term: T1003

Summary

This procedure involves the care provided by Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) for a duration of up to 15 minutes. These healthcare professionals perform various nursing tasks to assist in patient care.

Purpose

LPN/LVN services address a variety of medical conditions and provide essential nursing care. The goal is to support patient recovery, manage chronic conditions, and ensure overall health and well-being.

Indications

• Chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
• Wound care and dressing changes
• Medication administration
• Vital sign monitoring
• Patient education and counseling

Preparation

• No specific preparation is generally needed for routine LPN/LVN care.
• Patients should provide a full medical history and current medication list.
• Follow any specific instructions given by the healthcare provider, if applicable.

Procedure Description

1. The LPN/LVN conducts an initial assessment (e.g., vital signs, symptoms).
2. Administers prescribed medications or treatments.
3. Performs necessary nursing care activities such as wound care or blood draws.
4. Educates and counsels the patient on health management.
5. Documents all activities and patient status in medical records.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used

• Blood pressure cuffs
• Stethoscopes
• Medication administration supplies (e.g., syringes, pill dispensers)
• Wound care materials (e.g., bandages, antiseptics)

Anesthesia or Sedation Details

• Typically, no anesthesia or sedation is required for standard LPN/LVN services.

Duration

• The procedure lasts up to 15 minutes.

Setting

• Can be performed in various settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, or in-home care.

Personnel

• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
• Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs)
• Supervising Registered Nurses (occasionally)

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks due to the non-invasive nature of the procedures.
• Possible minor complications include infection at the site of injection/wound care or allergic reactions to medications.
• Management includes appropriate medical intervention and follow-up care.

Benefits

• Effective management of chronic or acute conditions.
• Timely administration of medications and treatments.
• Enhanced patient education leading to better health outcomes.
• Immediate benefits such as symptom relief can be realized promptly.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care typically involves following the LPN's/LVN's advice.
• No significant recovery time is usually needed.
• Follow-up appointments depend on the underlying condition being treated.

Alternatives

• Self-care with guidance from healthcare providers (for minor conditions).
• Advanced care by Registered Nurses (RNs) if more comprehensive nursing care is necessary.
• Physician or specialist interventions for more complex health issues.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives

• Self-care: Less professional oversight, but more autonomy.
• RN care: More comprehensive, but might be less accessible or more costly.
• Specialist intervention: Highly effective for complex issues, more expensive, and less frequently needed for routine care.

Patient Experience

• Patients might experience routine clinical activities (e.g., blood pressure measurement, medication administration).
• Generally, minimal discomfort is expected.
• Pain management is not usually needed, but LPNs/LVNs can provide comfort measures and address minor discomforts as needed.