Kentucky LPN IV Therapy: Education and Competency Requirements

In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, the role of the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) continues to evolve—particularly in the area of infusion therapy. The Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN) recognizes that intravenous (IV) therapy is not only a vital component of modern nursing care, but also an area that demands rigorous education, demonstrated competency, and ongoing oversight.

For LPNs practicing in Kentucky, IV therapy is governed by specific statutes and regulations designed to protect patients and support nurses in delivering safe and effective care. Here’s what you need to know if you’re an LPN looking to expand your scope of practice into IV therapy.

Legal Framework for IV Therapy Practice

The practice of IV therapy by LPNs in Kentucky is defined under 201 Kentucky Administrative Regulation (KAR) 20:490, which outlines:

• Procedures within the current LPN scope of practice
• Procedures that require additional education and training
• Procedures that are outside of the LPN’s scope, regardless of education, unless the nurse is licensed as an RN

These guidelines are rooted in both the administrative regulation and the Board’s Advisory Opinion Statement #3 (AOS #3), titled “Recommended Course Content: Intravenous (IV) Therapy for Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses.” AOS #3 provides a detailed blueprint for the educational and competency standards LPNs must meet to engage in IV therapy safely and legally.

Educational Requirements

To perform IV therapy in Kentucky, the LPN must complete an approved education program that meets all content and competency requirements as established by the Kentucky Board of Nursing. This training may be obtained through:

• A pre-licensure nursing program (for students admitted after September 15, 2004)
• A continuing education provider or practice-based institutional program

The curriculum must cover fundamental knowledge, technical skills, and core competencies related to IV therapy, including administration via both peripheral and certain types of central lines, always under the direction of a Registered Nurse (per KRS 314.011 (10)(a)).

Competency Verification

Education alone isn’t enough. Upon completion of the didactic (online) portion of training, the LPN must also complete the skill checklists provided within the course to demonstrate real-world proficiency. Institutions that employ LPNs are responsible for ensuring clinical competency through their own protocols, and the LPN must maintain written documentation of:

• Completion of the instructional program
• Verified clinical competency

This documentation is critical—not only for personal record-keeping but also as proof of qualification should it be required by an employer or the Board.

Ready to Get Started? Pedagogy Can Help!

If you’re an LPN in Kentucky looking to expand your clinical skills and advance your career, Pedagogy Continuing Nurse Education offers an online course that meets the Kentucky Board of Nursing’s approved IV Therapy curriculum.

The Kentucky IV Therapy Education Course is specifically designed to:

• Fulfill the educational requirements set forth by 201 KAR 20:490 and AOS #3
• Provide a comprehensive, online learning experience
• Prepare LPNs to perform IV therapy safely and competently under RN supervision

This course ensures that you’re not only legally compliant, but fully prepared to take on the critical responsibilities that come with infusion therapy in today’s healthcare settings.

Conclusion

Infusion therapy is a specialized area of nursing that requires formal education, demonstrated skill, and continued oversight. For Kentucky LPNs, adhering to the standards set by the Board of Nursing is not just about legal compliance—it’s about delivering the best care possible. With the right training and a commitment to excellence, you can confidently expand your scope of practice and support your patients with safe, effective IV therapy.

Ready to begin your journey? Register today and take the next step in your nursing career.