Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) and IV Therapy in Texas

Educational Requirements

The foundational LVN curriculum does not typically include instruction on IV therapy or venipuncture. Therefore, LVNs must pursue post-licensure training to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for these procedures. This additional education should encompass the principles and techniques of IV therapy, including the insertion of peripheral IV catheters and the administration of fluids and medications via the IV route.

It is the opinion of the Board that the LVN shall not engage in IV therapy related to either peripheral or central venous catheters, including venipuncture, administration of IV fluids, and/or administration of IV push medications, until successful completion of a validation course that instructs the LVN in the knowledge and skills applicable to the LVN’s IV therapy practice. The BON does not define or set qualifications for an “IV Validation Course” or for "LVN IV certification." The LVN who chooses to engage in IV therapy must first have been instructed in the principles of IV therapy congruent with prevailing nursing practice standards.

Competency and Supervision

Upon completing the requisite training, LVNs are expected to demonstrate competency in IV therapy and venipuncture. This involves performing these procedures under appropriate supervision until proficiency is achieved. LVNs should only undertake IV therapy tasks that align with their education, experience, and demonstrated competence, always prioritizing patient safety.

Scope of Practice Limitations

While LVNs can manage certain aspects of IV therapy, the insertion and removal of PICC lines exceed their scope of practice. LVNs may, however, be involved in maintaining patency and performing dressing changes of central line IV catheters, provided they have received proper training and demonstrated competency in these specific tasks.

Standards of Nursing Practice

LVNs engaging in IV therapy must adhere to the Standards of Nursing Practice as outlined in 22 TAC §217.11. Key standards include:

• Implementing measures to promote a safe environment for clients and others.
• Knowing the rationale for and effects of medications and treatments, and correctly administering them.
• Accurately and completely reporting and documenting client status, nursing care rendered, and client responses.
• Obtaining instruction and supervision as necessary when implementing nursing procedures or practices.
• Making a reasonable effort to obtain orientation and training for competency when encountering new equipment and technology or unfamiliar care situations.
• Being responsible for one's own continuing competence in nursing practice and individual professional growth.

LVNs must also comply with facility policies and procedures, which may impose additional restrictions or requirements regarding IV therapy practices.

For comprehensive and current information, LVNs should consult the Texas Board of Nursing's Position Statement 15.3, "LVNs Engaging in Intravenous Therapy, Venipuncture, or Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) Lines," available on the BON's official website.

Looking for IV education? Check out our Texas LVN IV Certification Package!