As defined in the North Carolina Nursing Practice Act and related Administrative Code Rules the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) practice involves a directed scope of nursing practice, with or without compensation or personal profit, under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), licensed physician or other healthcare practitioner authorized by the state, and as such is sometimes identified as a “dependent” practice. The Licensed Practical Nurse practice is guided by the North Carolina laws and rules, established nursing standards, agency policy, validated knowledge, skill and competency, the complexity and frequency of nursing care needed, and the accessible resources.
Each Licensed Practical Nurse in North Carolina is accountable to clients, the nursing profession and the Board of Nursing for complying with requirements under the North Carolina laws and rules. The Licensed Practical Nurse is accountable to ensure that quality nursing care is rendered.
Law & Rules
- Licensed Practical Nurse Law - The Nursing Practice Act Article 90-171.20 (8)
- Licensed Practical Nurse Rules