The scope of practice statement in the Health Professions Act (Schedule 10, s. 3) for LPNs in Alberta states that LPNs may:

• apply nursing knowledge, skills and judgment to assess clients’ needs;
• provide nursing care for clients and families;
• teach, manage and conduct research in the science, techniques and practice of nursing; and/or
• provide restricted activities authorized by the regulations.

LPN practice is outlined in the Standards of Practice for Licensed Practical Nurses in Canada and the Code of Ethics for Licensed Practical Nurses in Canada. LPNs are expected to comply with these standards.

The restricted activities LPNs are authorized to perform are outlined in the Health Professions Restricted Activity Regulation and the Standards of Practice on Restricted Activities, Advanced Practice, and Supervision. It is important to check if the restricted activity you want to perform has any supervision or additional education requirements. This information can be found in the CLPNA Standards of Practice on Restricted Activities, Advanced Practice, and Supervision. These documents are available on the related documents on this page.

Some activities require an order or protocol from an authorized practitioner prior to performing them. For medication orders, LPNs are required to know all the components of a complete medication order which are outlined in the CLPNA policy called Medication Management.

LPNs are expected to know their role within their employment setting and any limitations specific to that role. Employers can provide education and training for many skills performed in specific workplaces.

An LPN’s scope of practice increases with experience, education, training, and support from colleagues, supervisors, and educators. It is important to understand the client’s overall condition and needs, then assess your ability to manage these conditions/needs or adverse events that might occur. Some areas require approved education and training, such as areas of advanced practice, prior to an LPN performing certain skills. Please review the CLPNA Standards of Practice on Restricted Activities, Advanced Practice, and Supervision. Self-reflect and determine if the activity requires any additional education and training. If you have not performed this activity before or it has been some time since you have, do you need to enhance or refresh your knowledge before performing this activity? Determine if someone is available to assist should you have questions or require support.

Consider any co-morbidities the client might have and assess the possibility of negative outcomes associated with performing the activity. Determine if the expected outcome can be managed with proper supports in place or if another healthcare provider should perform the activity. Consider both the risks and the benefits for the client.

Check if there are any employer requirements such as policies or procedures associated with the activity. Check that any equipment or materials required are available, in good repair, and if applicable not expired. Determine if there is an authorized practitioner or co-worker available to assist, supervise, or consult with should it be required.