New Mexico Board of Nursing
I. Standards for licensed practical nursing practice. Licensed practical nurses practice in accordance with the definition of licensed practical nursing in the NPA [61-3-3, G. NMSA 1978].
(1) LPNs may assume specific functions and perform specific procedures which are beyond basic preparation for licensed practical nursing [61-3-3, G. NMSA 1978] provided the knowledge and skills required to perform the function and procedure emanates from the recognized body of knowledge and practice of nursing, and the functions or procedure is not prohibited by any law or statute. LPNs who perform procedures which are beyond basic preparation for practical nursing must only perform these procedures under the supervision/direction of a RN.
(2) LPNs may perform intravenous therapy, including initiation of IV therapy, administration of intravenous fluids and medications, and may administer medications via the intraperitoneal route provided the LPN has the knowledge and skills to perform IV therapy safely and properly.
(3) When assuming specific functions and performing specific procedures which are beyond the LPN’s basic educational preparation, the LPN is responsible for obtaining the appropriate knowledge, skills and supervision to assure he/she can perform the function/procedure safely and competently.

The New Mexico Nursing Practice Act (Section J of 61-3-3) defines licensed practical nursing as follows:
J. "licensed practical nursing" means the practice of a directed scope of nursing requiring basic knowledge of the biological, physical, social and behavioral sciences and nursing procedures, which practice is at the direction of a registered nurse, physician or dentist licensed to practice in this state. This practice includes but is not limited to:
(1) contributing to the assessment of the health status of individuals, families and communities;
(2) participating in the development and modification of the plan of care;
(3) implementing appropriate aspects of the plan of care commensurate with education and verified competence;
(4) collaborating with other health care professionals in the management of health care; and
(5) participating in the evaluation of responses to interventions;