Nursing Prioritization Delegation Assignment Q 16
A client who has frequent watery stool is admitted to the unit due to dehydration possibly caused by C. difficile. Which nursing action should the charge nurse delegate to an LPN/LVN?
A. Giving the ordered metronidazole (Flagyl) 500 mg PO to the client.
B. Reconsidering the client's medical history for any risk factors for diarrhea.
C. Doing ongoing assessments to determine the client's hydration status.
D. Explaining the purpose of ordered stool cultures to the client family.
Correct Answer: A. Giving the ordered metronidazole (Flagyl) 500 mg PO to the client.
LPN scope of practice and education include the administration of medications. Each state board of nursing regulates what the LPN can and cannot do. In general, LPN’s provide patient care in a variety of settings within a variety of clinical specializations. LPN’s can usually administer oral and intravenous medication.
Option B: LPN’s are often the first point of contact that a hospital, doctor’s office, or other healthcare clinic has with patients. After patients are called back to be seen by a doctor, LPN’s record their medical history, known allergies, height, weight, internal body temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and breathing rate. These signs give doctors and registered nurses a good indication of patients’ overall health before any additional tests are administered.
Option C: Assessment is not within the LPNs’ scope of practice. However, LPN’s can be asked to monitor their patients’ health throughout the course of their shift. Close monitoring is especially important after major surgeries, accidents, and when patients have received new medications. LPN’s are trained to quickly identify adverse reactions or complications and notify doctors and registered nurses immediately.
Option D: Client and family education should be done by the RN. However, LPN’s are often tasked with providing a human touch to routine healthcare. They often teach patients and their family members how to administer medication, which symptoms to be aware of after the patient goes home, which activities to avoid, and how to adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle.