Are RNs permitted to interpret a patient’s lab results?
Q.: I am an RN working in a public health clinic and have been asked by the physician to interpret laboratory data for sexually transmitted diseases (such as chlamydia and gonorrhea) and provide the findings to patients. Am I authorized by licensure to interpret test results and provide the subsequent diagnoses to patients? A.: In New York state, only licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants are authorized to interpret clinical findings resulting in a medical diagnosis. Providing the interpretation of test results to the patient allows for a meaningful exchange of information about the plan of care related to the results and an opportunity for the patient to ask questions. RNs are authorized by licensure to execute medical regimes prescribed by authorized providers. RNs are not authorized by licensure to provide a patient with the interpretation of a test result that diagnoses pathology. An RN can provide selective interpretation of tests such as purified prot
