NJ A4679

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) at dialysis facilities may perform pre- and post-dialysis focal assessments that do not require judgment, intervention, modification of care, or referral from a registered professional nurse, with any abnormalities immediately reported to the RN.

Patient care technicians (PCTs) at dialysis centers may administer saline and heparin to patients, overriding current regulations that prohibit PCTs from administering medications.

PCTs must hold national certification as a patient care technician, receive specific training, and demonstrate competency to provide direct patient care under RN supervision.

The Commissioner of Health must adopt rules and regulations implementing these expanded scope of practice provisions.

The act takes effect 180 days after enactment.