Committee advances change to allow LPNs to perform parts of assisted-living assessments; A1 amendment adopted (SF2537 laid over)

Senate File 2537, considered May 20, would clarify that licensed practical nurses (LPNs) may perform focused assessments and parts of comprehensive assessments in assisted-living settings consistent with their licensing under the Nurse Practice Act, provided a registered nurse (RN) conducts the initial comprehensive assessment and reviews any sections completed by an LPN.

Sen. Clare Rasmussen, sponsor of the bill, described the intent as pragmatic: allowing LPNs to work ‘‘at the top of their license’’ to ease workforce pressures in assisted-living facilities while preserving RN responsibility for comprehensive assessments. Nicole Matson of Care Providers of Minnesota testified the LPN role historically included focused assessments and that the change would help facilities complete timely evaluations and free RN time for complex care tasks.

Several witnesses described concerns about preserving minimum RN-led assessment frequency and standards. Nancy Haugen, a registered public-health nurse and president of Elder Voice Advocates, told the committee she was concerned that LPN education differs from RN education and that comprehensive assessments—currently required every 90 days—are within RN scope. She urged preserving RN-led comprehensive assessment frequency.

An author’s A1 amendment was offered and distributed at the hearing; the committee adopted that A1 amendment by voice vote. Committee members and MDH and Board of Nursing staff who reviewed the amendment said it addressed concerns about assessment frequency and the scope of sections LPNs may complete. The bill, as amended, was laid over for possible inclusion in an omnibus bill.

What the amendment changed

- The adopted A1 clarifies that RNs must continue to perform required comprehensive assessments at the statutory intervals (including initial assessments and assessments after a change of condition) and specifies that LPNs may collect or document certain focused data (for example, vital signs or skin-assessment findings) that the RN will incorporate and review.

- The Minnesota Board of Nursing and the Department of Health reviewed language and asked for the technical adjustments included in the A1 amendment, which sponsors said was incorporated before the voice vote.

Ending note

The committee laid SF 2537 over for possible inclusion in the omnibus bill. Sponsors and MDH indicated willingness to refine implementation guidance and to ensure RN oversight and periodic review remain intact.