Safe and Effective Care Environment Q 4

---

Which assignment should not be performed by the licensed practical nurse?

  

     A. Inserting a Foley catheter

     B. Discontinuing a nasogastric tube

     C. Obtaining a sputum specimen

     D. Starting a blood transfusion

    

    

Correct Answer: D. Starting a blood transfusion

---

The licensed practical nurse should not be assigned to begin a blood transfusion. An LPN works under the supervision of doctors and RNs, performing duties such as taking vital signs, collecting samples, administering medication, ensuring patient comfort, and reporting the status of their patients to the nurses.

---

Option A: Most LPNs work in healthcare facilities, including hospitals, doctors’ offices, and nursing homes. Their duties generally include providing routine care, observing patients’ health, assisting doctors and registered nurses, and communicating with patients and their families.

Option B: An LPN can insert NG tube for Levin suction or gavage feedings; give meds through NG and PEG tubes, and discontinue NG tubes. In general, LPN’s provide patient care in a variety of settings within a variety of clinical specializations. Insert and care for patients that need nasogastric tubes. Give feedings through a nasogastric or gastrostomy tube.

Option C: The licensed practical nurse can collect sputum specimens. Obtaining a specimen involves collecting tissue or fluids for laboratory analysis or near-patient testing, and may be a first step in determining a diagnosis and treatment (Dougherty and Lister, 2015). Specimens must be collected at the right time, using the correct technique and equipment, and be delivered to the laboratory in a timely manner (Dougherty and Lister, 2015).

---