In the constantly changing landscape of the law surrounding medical spa and aesthetics businesses, it’s extremely important to stay current on state regulations and advisory opinions from state regulatory boards. A new Advisory Opinion from the Arizona Board of Nursing has been released that clarifies the scope of practice for registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in relation IV Hydration.
This Advisory Opinion clarifies that Good Faith Exams are needed for IV Hydration treatments in Arizona.
As IV Hydration is one of the most popular services offered at aesthetic practices, understanding regulations and opinions related to it is paramount to ensuring compliance for your business. When condensed, this particular Advisory Opinion presented four major points for consideration. Those points are as follows:
- It is within the scope of RNs, LPNs, and APRNs to administer IV therapies, so long as they have a valid order from a licensed provider (LP). An LP must be a Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, or Medical Doctor to issue medical orders.
- A valid medical order from an LP is necessary for any IV therapy. This includes even the simplest of hydration drips offered.
- An LP may issue the order by telemedicine as long as certain conditions are met.
- Compounded solutions are those created by adding additional ingredients, such as vitamins or other medications, to a base. The Opinion found that compounding drugs for IV therapy is out of the scope of those under the regulation of the Arizona Nursing Board. Thus, RNs, LPNs, and NPs in Arizona can administer compounded medications, but they cannot compound them.
The importance of the oversight requirement plays a massive role in how these services should be offered going forward. Good-faith exams have become even more important since a valid medical order from an LP is required before performing any IV hydration services. Ensuring that each patient receives a good faith exam from an LP before receiving any medical services from your business ensures your practices comply with state law and are individually tailored to the patient. Providing each patient with a personal good-faith exam also helps to ensure they receive personalized and safe IV hydration care.
Several providers of outsourced good faith exam services are available, including https://www.qualiphy.me/ and https://www.spakinect.com/. These providers charge per service to lower your fixed costs while maintaining legal compliance.
*This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice or the forging of an attorney-client relationship. Please retain the services of an attorney to receive legal advice on how the law applies to your business.