[sfur2013]

I am a recent LPN graduate. To build my experience and to gain hours I work also as a HHA in a home care environment. I became concerned with a statement from management that I was over concerned with medication of my clients. I think it was in regards to my telling the RN there may be an issue with a client’s medication and to pass it to their doctor. My clients know I am a LPN and sometimes ask me to look at their medication. I also find it a great study process to learn. My question is what is the LPN responsibility when in an HHA shift? Am I legally responsible if the client takes the wrong medication? Am I allowed to go over their medication if requested? I've observed clients forgetting to take their medication and also taking the wrong dosage or medication. I would not have known that if I had not reviewed their medication or had been with them at visits to the doctor. Should I not show interest in what the client is taking or ignore it? I would assume being an LPN, if I know they are self-medicating wrongly, I must say something but the management's comment makes me wonder about that

[JudyKayTee]

I'm a little concerned that you are a HHA and an LPN and don't understand your responsibilities. The people to ask are the people who employ you - I've seen HHA who give advice and I've seen those who don't. If you are simply a cooking/cleaning/companionship helper, that's one thing. If you have other duties, then that's another thing.

I would be very certain what my responsibilities are concerning medication before I continue my employment.