Is it within the scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse to provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
On August 9, 2002, the Board of Nursing’s Nurse Practice Committee approved the expansion of the scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse to include providing hyperbaric oxygen therapy in monoplace chamber units provided: • The licensed practical nurse is appropriately educated and certified in hyperbaric oxygen therapy in accordance with National Board of Diving standards. (During the certification training/process, after completion of the mandated 40 hours theory component of the educational program, the licensed practical nurse student (termed hyperbaric technologist student in program) must function under the direct supervision of a registered nurse preceptor certified in hyperbaric oxygen therapy for the required 480 hours clinical practice.) Educational preparation, continuing education and competency evaluations must be in accordance with stated national standards and maintained on file at the facility; • There are medical orders for the procedure, to include control se
