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Question
Can a licensed practical nurse administer Botox® or inject medications for sclerotherapy, asclerotherapy, or dermal fillers?
Answer

The nursing laws and rules allow a competent and appropriately trained licensed practical nurse to administer neuromodulators (such as Botox®, Dysport®, or Xeomin®) or administering medications for sclerotherapy, asclerotherapy, or dermal fillers under the direction of an authorized health care practitioner or under the direction and supervision of a registered nurse. These procedures require a prescription from an authorized health care practitioner. The licensed practical nurse should use the Scope of Practice Decision Tree to determine if these activities are within the nurse's legal and individual scope of practice. The nursing laws and rules do not require an authorized health care practitioner or registered nurse to be on the premises when a licensed practical nurse provides nursing care or performs medical regimens. However, the Medical Quality Assurance Commission WAC 246-919-606 Nonsurgical Medical Cosmetic Procedures applies to nonsurgical medical cosmetic procedures that involve the injection of a medication or substance for cosmetic purposes, or use of a prescriptive device for cosmetic purposes (except for laser, light, radiofrequency and plasma devices). These rules allow delegation of these procedures to a properly trained licensed practical nurse. The delegating physician need not be on the premises during the procedure, but the physician must be reachable by telephone to be able to respond within thirty minutes to treat complications. The Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission recommends following the WAC 246-919-606 for physicians.

FAQ Category
Dermatology and Cosmetic Procedures