The registered nurse (RN) is planning care to prevent venous thromboembolism in several clients. Which tasks can the RN delegate to the licensed practical nurse? Select all that apply.

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When caring for a client at risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE), the registered nurse (RN) is responsible for assessing the client, including risk factors present, current medications and supplements that affect coagulation (eg, ginger, gingko biloba), and development of complications (eg, pulmonary embolism). The RN must also develop and implement the plan of care, provide client teaching, and evaluate the outcome of interventions. The RN may delegate care to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and unlicensed assistive personnel using the five rights of delegation. It is within the scope of practice of the LPN to administer most anticoagulant medications and measure and apply compression devices (Options A, B, and D). (Option C) The LPN can collect and report data (eg, vital signs, results from complete blood count and coagulation studies), but analysis and evaluation of the data require the RN's expertise. (Option E) The RN must provide initial education about VTE prevention (eg, medications, preventive measures, bleeding precautions). The LPN may then reinforce teaching to clients as necessary. Educational objective: The registered nurse (RN) is responsible for assessing the client at risk for venous thromboembolism, developing and implementing the plan of care, teaching, and evaluating interventions. The RN may delegate anticoagulant administration, measurement and application of compression devices, and teaching reinforcement to the licensed practical nurse.

The Registered Nurse (RN) Is Planning Care to Prevent Venous