Has OMRDD established specific guidelines as to what tasks can only be done by RNs, LPNs, direct care staff?
The practice of nursing is not regulated by OMRDD. That responsibility lies with the New York State Education Department. All RNs and LPNs in New York State, including those who work in programs certified by OMRDD must practice within the standards of practice established by the Board of Regents, in consultation with the State Board for Nursing. It has long been the position of the State Board of Nursing that any task that requires assessment may only be done by an RN. Assessment should not be confused with collection of data. Assessment is really the “so what”; that is, the determination of what action should be taken as a result of the data.
