The registered nurse (RN) on a medical-surgical unit is working with a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). Which tasks are most appropriate to assign to the LPN? Select all that apply.

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11ecbb05_cb91_720f_b433_d993d5f22ea6_MD0009_00 Wound care and routine medication administration are the most appropriate tasks to assign to the LPN. The LPN can perform sterile procedures and cleanse and dress wounds for which there is an established prescription plan (Option D). Pain rated at 8/10 is an expected finding in a client with chronic back pain, and the oral analgesic may be administered as scheduled by the LPN (Option A). If this client were experiencing new-onset, unexplained pain requiring intravenous analgesic administration, the client would need assessment by the RN. (Option B) The LPN may perform specific assessments, but evaluating the fluid volume status of a heart failure client is a comprehensive assessment involving multiple body systems (eg, heart and lung sounds, peripheral edema, adequacy of urine output). This client will also require discharge education on home management of heart failure, which is the responsibility of the RN. (Options C and E) UAP have the appropriate skills and knowledge to meet clients' elimination, hygiene, and comfort needs. Although these tasks could be safely carried out by an LPN, underutilizing UAP would be an ineffective use of resources. Educational objective: LPNs may safely perform sterile procedures and routine medication administration. The RN is responsible for discharge planning and performing comprehensive clinical assessments. The nurse should also consider appropriate use of resources when making assignments or delegating tasks.

The Registered Nurse (RN) on a Medical-Surgical Unit Is Working