Key Takeaways
- Telehealth includes synchronous (live), asynchronous, remote monitoring, and mHealth
- LPN/VNs can assist with telehealth but should not independently assess or triage
- HIPAA applies to all digital communications—use only secure platforms
- Remote patient monitoring requires LPN/VNs to recognize and report abnormal findings
- Patient education about technology is an important nursing role
Telehealth and Technology in Nursing
The growth of telehealth and health technology has expanded rapidly, especially since 2020. As of 2026, LPN/VNs increasingly participate in telehealth services and must understand both the opportunities and limitations of technology-assisted care.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth uses telecommunications technology to provide healthcare services remotely. Types include:
| Type | Description | LPN/VN Role |
|---|---|---|
| Synchronous (Live) | Real-time video/audio interaction | Assist patients with technology setup, take vital signs |
| Asynchronous (Store-and-Forward) | Data collected and sent for later review | Collect/document data, upload images |
| Remote Patient Monitoring | Continuous data collection from home devices | Review data, alert RN to concerning trends |
| Mobile Health (mHealth) | Health apps and wearable devices | Teach patients about apps, review data |
LPN/VN Scope in Telehealth
LPN/VNs CAN:
- Assist patients with technology setup and troubleshooting
- Collect vital signs and other data for telehealth visits
- Document telehealth encounters
- Reinforce education provided by RN or provider
- Monitor data from remote monitoring devices
- Alert RN/provider to concerning findings
LPN/VNs should NOT:
- Independently conduct telehealth assessments
- Make clinical decisions without RN/provider oversight
- Provide telephone triage without training and supervision
- Prescribe or change medications
Technology Competencies
Modern LPN/VNs need technology skills including:
| Skill Area | Applications |
|---|---|
| Electronic Health Records (EHRs) | Documentation, medication administration records, care plans |
| Medication Administration Technology | Barcode scanning, automated dispensing cabinets |
| Vital Signs Monitors | Digital BP cuffs, pulse oximeters, cardiac monitors |
| Communication Technology | Secure messaging, video platforms, team communication apps |
| Patient Education Technology | Patient portals, education videos, printed materials |
Patient Privacy in Digital Health
HIPAA Considerations:
- Use only secure, encrypted platforms for telehealth
- Verify patient identity before each session
- Ensure private environment on both ends
- Do not discuss patient information via unsecured text or email
- Follow facility policies for data storage
Remote Patient Monitoring
Common Devices:
- Blood pressure monitors
- Blood glucose monitors
- Weight scales
- Pulse oximeters
- Cardiac monitors (Holter, event monitors)
- CPAP compliance monitors
LPN/VN Responsibilities:
- Teach patients proper use of devices
- Review data according to facility protocol
- Recognize abnormal values and report to RN
- Document findings and communications
- Troubleshoot basic technology issues
Barriers to Telehealth
| Barrier | Nursing Approach |
|---|---|
| Technology access | Identify patients needing support, connect with resources |
| Digital literacy | Provide patient/family education, written instructions |
| Language barriers | Use interpreter services via telehealth |
| Privacy concerns | Explain security measures, ensure private space |
| Internet connectivity | Identify alternatives (phone visits, community access) |
Patient Education for Telehealth
Teach Patients:
- How to access the telehealth platform
- Technical requirements (camera, microphone, internet)
- How to prepare for the visit (medication list, questions)
- What to do if technology fails
- Privacy and security of the platform
On the NCLEX-PN
Expect questions about:
- Scope of practice in telehealth settings
- Patient privacy in digital communications
- Teaching patients about remote monitoring
- Recognizing when to escalate findings from remote monitoring
- Technology troubleshooting basics
An LPN/VN is assisting with a telehealth visit. Which action is within the LPN/VN scope of practice?
A patient asks the LPN/VN to send their lab results via personal text message for convenience. What is the BEST response?
When reviewing data from a patient's home blood pressure monitor, the LPN/VN notes readings consistently above 160/100 mmHg for the past 3 days. What is the BEST action?