Updates to two Clinical Decision Tools (CDT) are effective October 1, 2024:
- Urinary Tract Infection (Cystitis and Pyelonephritis): Adult has been updated and now requires immediate consultation for pregnant patients presenting with a suspected urinary tract infection (UTI). There are clinical decisions that go beyond the CDT that may be important when treating pregnant clients who seemingly have a UTI and therefore consultation is required.
- Atopic Dermatitis: Adult and Pediatric CDT has had examples of signs and symptoms of systemic infection added to the immediate consultation section.
Reminders regarding scope of practice for RN(AAP)s
- The CDTs contain the additional actions that RN(AAP)s are authorized to take when permitted by the employer. RN(AAP)s are responsible for immediately consulting with a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or physician when required in a CDT.
- Outside of the CDTs, RN(AAP)s are practicing within the RN role and scope of practice and must consult with an NP or physician to be authorized to perform activities such as administering medications, ordering tests or determining a course of treatment. Examples of this are the care and treatment of people living with diabetes and other chronic health conditions or emergency situations.
- RN Clinical Protocols developed using the RN Specialty Practices framework can provide the authority to provide care for clients in situations outside of the CDTs. CDTs and RN Clinical Protocols together can support many situations an RN(AAP) may be presented with in their practice.
All CDTs can be accessed here. CRNS Practice & Education Nursing Advisors are available to answer your questions. They can be contacted by phone at 1.800.667.9945 or 306.359.4227 or by email at practiceadvice@crns.ca.