Due to an unexpected surge in admissions at a subacute long-term care facility, the unit manager must redistribute client loads among a registered nurse (RN), a practical nurse (PN), and two assistive personnel (AP). Which action by the PN demonstrates a legally sound understanding of scope of practice and safe delegation?
- Accepting responsibility for a medically stable client with a mature gastrostomy tube who requires scheduled enteral feedings and oral medications.Answer
- BDirecting an AP to perform a focused respiratory assessment and determine the need for PRN albuterol in a client exhibiting mild wheezing.
- CAgreeing to formulate the initial interdisciplinary plan of care for a newly admitted client transferring directly from a critical care unit.
- DTaking over the adjustment of a continuous intravenous (IV) antiarrhythmic medication for a client experiencing intermittent episodes of tachycardia.
Answer
The legally sound action is accepting responsibility for the medically stable client with a mature gastrostomy tube who requires scheduled enteral feedings and oral medications.
The correct assignment aligns perfectly with the practical nurse's scope of practice. Practical nurses are responsible for the care of stable clients with predictable outcomes. Administering scheduled oral medications and enteral feedings through a mature, established gastrostomy tube are standard, routine procedures that do not require complex, continuous RN-level assessment.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Delegation and Legal Scope of Practice for the Practical Nurse