Abstract
ABSTRACT: In the United States, state laws develop basic practices to define the scopes of practice for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses (LPNs). The purpose of the study was to describe the actual practice patterns of LPNs working in North Carolina. The results of the study convey an unfavorable pattern regarding LPN scope of practice. Indications are that a paradigm shift might be required in order to reverse the pattern of overpractice by LPNs.