Question

The nursing staff of a local clinic is made up of two registered nurses and two licensed practical nurses. Which duty is within the scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse? A. Administering a monthly infusion of Remicade to a client with rheumatoid arthritis B. Removing sutures from a client following abdominal surgery C. Changing a peg tube in a client with a stroke D. Flushing a Groshong catheter in a client receiving chemotherapy

Short answer

A. Administering a monthly infusion of Remicade to a client with rheumatoid arthritis B. Removing sutures from a client following abdominal surgery C. Changing a peg tube in a client with a stroke D. Flushing a Groshong catheter in a client receiving chemotherapy Answer: B. Removing sutures from a client following abdominal surgery

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the difference between a Registered Nurse and a Licensed Practical Nurse

A Registered Nurse (RN) typically has a higher level of education and training compared to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). RNs are expected to perform more complex procedures and make more critical decisions, while LPNs offer more basic nursing care under the supervision of an RN.

Analyze the given options

Go through each option and evaluate if the task would typically fall under the scope of practice for an LPN. A. Administering a monthly infusion of Remicade to a client with rheumatoid arthritis - This procedure is more complex and would typically be done by an RN. B. Removing sutures from a client following abdominal surgery - This task is a basic nursing care activity and could fall under the scope of practice for an LPN. C. Changing a peg tube in a client with a stroke - This procedure is more complex and could potentially involve complications that would require the expertise and training of an RN. D. Flushing a Groshong catheter in a client receiving chemotherapy - This procedure involves working with a chemotherapy patient, which requires specialized knowledge and expertise that an RN would possess.

Select the correct answer

Based on the analysis in Step 2, the correct answer is: B. Removing sutures from a client following abdominal surgery - This is a basic nursing care activity that falls within the scope of practice for a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Key concepts

Scope of practice

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) have specific duties outlined within their scope of practice, which is determined by state laws and regulations. This scope is narrower than that of a Registered Nurse (RN) but includes essential nursing tasks.

LPNs typically provide basic nursing care under the supervision of an RN or a doctor. Their duties can include:

• Monitoring patient health by checking vital signs
• Providing basic patient care, such as wound dressing or skin care
• Assisting with personal hygiene tasks
• Administering certain medications
• Helping with mobility, such as transferring patients in and out of beds

The distinction in scope between LPNs and RNs ensures that each role is effectively contributing to patient care by performing the tasks suited to their training and qualifications.

Nursing education

The educational path for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is an important part of their ability to carry out specific nursing duties.

To become an LPN, one typically completes a diploma or certificate program, which can take about a year. These programs are often offered at community colleges or technical schools. The curriculum covers essential nursing skills, including:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Basic patient care techniques
• Pharmacology
• Clinical practice experience

Following the completion of their education, LPNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed. The training prepares them for providing essential health care services and operating smoothly within their scope of practice.

Clinical procedures

LPNs perform a variety of clinical procedures within their practice scope, focusing on basic but vital patient care.

Some clinical tasks they handle include:

• Wound care, such as applying dressings and removing sutures
• Administering medications under set protocols
• Monitoring and recording vital signs like blood pressure and temperature
• Collecting samples, such as blood or urine, for testing

Though more complex procedures, like administering intravenous medications or performing major surgical assistance, are outside an LPN's scope without direct oversight, they nonetheless play an essential role in patient care through these basic but crucial tasks.

Nursing staff roles

The nursing team in a healthcare setting includes various roles, each with distinct responsibilities to ensure comprehensive patient care.

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) works alongside other healthcare professionals, such as Registered Nurses (RNs) and doctors, contributing with their specialized skills. While RNs handle more complex medical duties, LPNs are crucial for the smooth operation of daily patient care. In a typical setting:

• RNs execute advanced clinical decisions and education programs
• LPNs provide essential bedside care and assist with daily patient activities
• Nurse assistants may support LPNs in routine tasks

By working together, these roles form a cohesive team that meets a patient's holistic health needs efficiently and effectively. Such collaborative teamwork is vital in maintaining high-quality care and positive health outcomes.