Question

Difficulty: EasyClient Care Assignments and Collaboration

During morning rounds on a geriatric rehabilitation floor, the nursing staff coordinates care for multiple individuals. Which client is best suited for the licensed practical nurse (LPN) to take primary responsibility for?

  1. A
    An older adult experiencing a sudden onset of confusion and new-onset shortness of breath
  2. B
    An older adult who needs to sign an informed consent form and has questions about the surgical risks
  3. An older adult who requires a scheduled subcutaneous insulin injection and routine blood glucose monitoringAnswer
  4. D
    An older adult preparing for discharge who requires the development of an initial teaching plan for heart failure

Answer

The most appropriate assignment for the licensed practical nurse is the older adult who requires a scheduled subcutaneous insulin injection and routine blood glucose monitoring.
The licensed practical nurse (LPN) is responsible for providing care to stable clients with predictable clinical outcomes. Administering a scheduled subcutaneous insulin injection and performing routine blood glucose monitoring are standard, predictable tasks that fall perfectly within the legal scope of practice for an LPN.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the legal scope of practice for the licensed practical nurse (LPN).
The LPN is responsible for providing care to stable clients with predictable outcomes, performing routine procedures, and administering standard medications.
To determine the boundaries of safe delegation and assignment acceptance.
2
Evaluate the clinical needs and acuity of each client in the given options.
Sudden confusion and shortness of breath indicate an unstable client requiring RN assessment. Developing initial teaching plans is an RN duty. Explaining surgical risks is the provider's duty. Routine insulin administration is a stable, expected LPN task.
To match the client's specific needs with the appropriate healthcare team member's scope of practice.
3
Select the assignment that safely aligns with the LPN's capabilities and legal role.
The client needing insulin and blood glucose monitoring is selected.
This assignment presents the lowest risk and involves predictable, routine interventions.

Key Concept

LPN/VN Scope of Practice and Safe Assignment Delegation
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