The registered nurse (RN) prepares to give out client care assignments. Which client is appropriate for the RN to assign to the licensed practical nurse (LPN)?

Question

The registered nurse (RN) prepares to give out client care assignments.  Which client is appropriate for the RN to assign to the licensed practical nurse (LPN)?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The LPN should be assigned to clients who are medically stable and have expected outcomes; these criteria apply to the client who had a total hip replacement 2 days ago. LPNs should not be assigned to clients who require complex care and clinical judgment and have potential negative outcomes. Teaching, assessment, clinical judgment, and evaluation of a client are the responsibility of the RN and should never be delegated to the LPN. (Option A) Client care is complex for those with acute pancreatitis as they can develop several complications (eg, hypocalcemia, acute respiratory distress syndrome) and need aggressive supportive care (eg, pain management, IV fluids). (Option C) Total thyroidectomy can be complicated by bleeding (throat compression) or hypocalcemia (if parathyroids were removed inadvertently). Care in these clients is complex. (Option D) Alcohol withdrawal can develop into delirium tremens or seizures; both are serious conditions. Clients need frequent doses of benzodiazepines (eg, lorazepam, diazepam) and aggressive supportive care. Educational objective: Care of stable clients with expected outcomes should be delegated to the LPN. The RN cannot delegate client teaching or care of those who will require ongoing assessment and clinical judgment.

The Registered Nurse (RN) Prepares to Give Out Client Care