Review of Normal Diagnostic Test Result Reports by RNs

In June 2004, the Board responded to an opinion request on the review of normal diagnostic test result reports by registered nurses.

Following review of the statutes governing nursing practice and information from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, it was the advisory opinion of the Board that a registered nurse may review and screen diagnostic test result reports to determine which reports to forward to the medical provider for review.  In the request, it was suggested that the nurse would only forward the abnormal reports to the medical provider.  Recognizing that in some situations normal findings may be as significant as abnormal findings, providers have a responsibility to establish which reports need to be reviewed.   This could be established in written policies and procedures for the nurse to follow.  The nurse’s practice should be consistent with the Kentucky Nursing Laws and established standards of practice, and be evidence based. 

The Cabinet for Health and Family Services advised that a health care facility, licensed as a special health clinic pursuant to 902 KAR 20:260, could establish the procedure referenced in the request as long as the clinic had a medical director that provided supervision and was responsible for the services provided by the facility.