Doctor vs. Nurse: Who to Trust with my Injectables?

Considering Botox or filler?

It is crucial to select an experienced injector who has the proper training, qualifications and experience to ensure that you get the best results. Injectables such as Botox and fillers, when administered by an inexperienced injector, can lead to uneven results, complications, and even serious health risks.  

Therefore, it is important to research the qualifications and experience of the injector before making a decision. 

At Delta Laser, we have a qualified team of both physicians and registered nurses – all of which are highly skilled at what they do. With that said, we understand the important of choosing an injector that you trust, whether it be a nurse or doctor.   

With an objective comparison of nurses vs. Doctors, this blog will guide you in choosing the right injector for your procedure.  

Injectables 4

Who Can Administer Injectables? 

Administering neurotoxin (Botox) or filler is a cosmetic medical procedure that requires a certain level of expertise. 

It is important to note that not all injectors are created equal, and it is crucial to choose an injector who is licensed, trained, and has experience in administering neurotoxin and filler. A qualified injector will have the knowledge, skill, and judgement to safely administer these procedures and achieve optimal results.  

To that end, there are rules and regulations around who can and who cannot administer cosmetic injections. These regulations vary from depending on location. 

In British Columbia, there are six types of medical professionals who can offer injectables (with proper training and authorization): 

  1. Doctor of Medicine (MD)
  2. Dentist
  3. Nurse Practitioner (NP) 
  4. Registered Nurse (RN) 
  5. Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) 
  6. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 

In British Columbia, a nurse must receive authorization from a physician or dentist in order to administer cosmetic injections. Additionally, given that the physician carries all legal responsibility, a physician must be present or part owner of the MedSpa.

 

Nurse vs. Doctor Injectables

Questions to Ask a Nurse Injector … 

If you choose a nurse to administer your injections, be sure to ask the following questions …  

  • Do you work in a practice setting or collaborate with an NP or Physician 
  • Do you have an order to administer Botox/Neurotoxin
  • Do you have the knowledge, skill, and judgement to administer …?
  • Is the procedure routinely performed in this practice setting?
  • What safety measures do you have in place to support the procedure in case of emergency or to prevent/control infection? 

Nurse vs Doctor: 5 Factors to Consider 

Qualifications, Education, & Training 

When comparing the qualifications, education, and training of nurses and doctors, it is important to first consider the differences in their backgrounds.  

Nurses who work in medical aesthetics typically begin their careers by working in a MedSpa or doctor's office.  

However, as nursing education does not typically include training in cosmetic injections, these nurses must receive additional training and on-the-job experience before becoming authorized to administer injections by a physician. This training often includes taking weekend courses and working under the supervision of a doctor before receiving approval to perform injections independently. 

In contrast, doctors have completed additional years of education and have earned a medical degree. They have more medical experience and are familiar with a wide range of medical procedures.  

While weekend courses and shadowing may provide nurses with some knowledge and skills, it cannot match the level of medical expertise of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon with a medical degree and many years of experience in the medical field. Additionally, doctors are well-equipped to train and authorize nurses, as well as handle any emergency situations that may arise. 

Risk Factors 

While injections of neurotoxin or filler are considered minimally invasive and relatively low-risk procedures, they are still medical procedures that carry a certain level of risk.  

If a problem arises after a patient's injections, a nurse must refer the patient to a Doctor for further treatment. Due to their extensive medical education and experience, doctors are the most qualified and best equipped to handle any complications that may arise. Therefore, if you are concerned about the risks associated with the procedure, it is recommended that you seek treatment from a doctor. 

Experience with Injectables 

As previously discussed, Doctors have extensive experience in the medical field and often perform a variety of procedures.  

For example, a plastic surgeon may occasionally administer injections, but spends most of their time performing more invasive procedures like facelifts or breast augmentations.  

On the other hand, nurses typically focus on administering injectables, which makes up the majority of their daily work. This consistent repetition of one procedure allows them to develop a strong familiarity and expertise with it.  

So, while doctors have more medical experience overall, nurses may have more experience specifically with administering injectables. 

Approach & Accessibility 

Ultimately, this is a matter of personal opinion, but nurses and Doctors may in their approach and accessibility.  

Some believe that nurses, due to their primary focus on injectables and fewer overall responsibilities, take their time, listen well, and focus on the patient. They also tend to be more accessible for questions pre- and post-procedure.  

In contrast, doctors typically have greater responsibilities as they run a medical practice and perform more complex procedures. Injections may be considered a minor procedure for a doctor, and they may allocate less time to these patients and procedures. It's important to consider the approach and accessibility of the individual practitioner, and this can vary depending on the doctor or MedSpa. 

Cost 

The last differentiator is cost. Doctors typically charge about 20-30% more than nurses for injectables given their education and experience.  

A Breakdown of the Pros & Cons 

Nurse Vs. Doctor Diagram

Get your Injectables with a Nurse or Doctor at Delta Laser 

At Delta Laser, you are in the right hands.  

We are fortunate to have a highly skilled physician and nurse injector at our clinic who have an amazing eye and talent when it comes to injectable treatments. Whether you choose a doctor or nurse, all of our injectors attend regular training to stay up to date on the latest trends and techniques.  

With that said, your safety and satisfaction is our number one priority. That is why a physician is either on-site or accessible at all times in case of complication.  

Are you interesting in booking an injectable appointment with one of our talented physician or nurse injectors? 

Step One: We first schedule a complimentary consultation with a highly trained Treatment Designer, who will provide a full facial assessment and recommend whether neuromodulators and/or filler would help you achieve your desired results. 

Usually, a combination of both will provide the most optimal results! 

Step Two: The physician or nurse injector will then meet with you to confirm the recommended treatment plan. 

Step Three: In a separate appointment, a physician or nurse will administer your injectables and ensure that you are satisfied with the result! 

Whether you choose a nurse or doctor for your injectables at Delta is ultimately up to you! Book a consultation today to get started with the injector of your choice! 

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FILED UNDER: Delta Laser

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