Question

a nurse on a medical - surgical unit is making assignments at the beginning of the shift. which of the following tasks should the nurse delegate to the lpn?
a obtain vital signs for a client who is 2 hr post procedure following a cardiac catheterization.
b administer a unit of packed red blood cells (rbcs) to a client who has cancer.
c instruct a client who is scheduled for discharge in the performance of wound care.
d develop a plan of care for a newly admitted client who has pneumonia.

Explanation:

• Option A: Obtaining vital signs is within the scope of practice for an LPN. It is a routine task that does not require the advanced assessment and decision - making skills of a registered nurse (RN) for a client who is 2 hours post - procedure following a cardiac catheterization (assuming stable condition as per routine post - procedure vital sign checks).
• Option B: Administering a unit of packed red blood cells (RBCs) is a task that requires more advanced assessment (such as monitoring for transfusion reactions, which involves complex client - assessment skills) and is typically within the RN's scope of practice.
• Option C: Client education (instructing a client on wound care for discharge) is a task that requires the RN's ability to assess the client's learning needs, provide comprehensive education, and ensure understanding. LPNs have more limited education and assessment skills for this type of complex client - centered teaching.
• Option D: Developing a plan of care is a task that requires the RN's comprehensive assessment, knowledge of nursing diagnoses, and ability to plan holistic care. LPNs follow the plan of care rather than develop it.

Answer:

A. Obtain vital signs for a client who is 2 hr post procedure following a cardiac catheterization.