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Difficulty: MediumClient Care Assignments and Collaboration

A nursing supervisor is evaluating the clinical decisions made by a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/VN) on a general medical unit. Which action demonstrates that the LPN/VN is practicing safely and appropriately within their legal scope of practice?

  1. Reinforcing the initial dietary teaching provided by the registered nurse (RN) for a client with stable heart failure.Answer
  2. B
    Explaining the potential surgical risks and alternative treatments to a client before witnessing an informed consent document.
  3. C
    Accepting an assignment to care for a client who was admitted 15 minutes ago with a sudden onset of unstable angina.
  4. D
    Providing a detailed telephone update regarding a client's prognosis to a relative who is not listed on the authorized disclosure form.

Answer

Reinforcing the initial dietary teaching provided by the registered nurse (RN) for a client with stable heart failure.
The LPN/VN scope of practice legally permits reinforcing education that has already been initially assessed, provided, and documented by a registered nurse (RN). Furthermore, assigning a client with a stable, chronic condition (such as stable heart failure) is highly appropriate, as their condition is predictable and does not require the continuous comprehensive assessment that an RN provides.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate the LPN/VN's role in client education.
The LPN/VN cannot provide initial, comprehensive teaching but is authorized to reinforce teaching already completed by the RN.
Initial education requires a comprehensive assessment of learning needs, which is an RN responsibility.
2
Assess the stability of the client assignments presented in the options.
The client with stable heart failure is appropriate for the LPN/VN, while the client with unstable angina requires an RN.
LPN/VNs are expected to care for clients with predictable outcomes and stable conditions.
3
Review legal and ethical responsibilities regarding consent and confidentiality.
The LPN/VN only witnesses consent signatures and must not share information with unauthorized persons.
Practicing safely requires strict adherence to legal boundaries like HIPAA and informed consent laws.

Key Concept

LPN/VN Scope of Practice: Delegation, Assignment, and Legal Responsibilities
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Topics

Client Care Assignments and Collaboration

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