Question

Which client task is most appropriately delegated to the licensed practical nurse (LPN) on the oncology unit? ? A. Sterile wound care ? B. Administer blood product ? C. Access a vascular access device ? D. Perform discharge teaching

Short answer

Answer: A. Sterile wound care

Step-by-step solution

Understand the role of an LPN

A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is a healthcare professional working under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. LPNs provide basic nursing care, including monitoring patients, administering medications, and performing routine procedures within their scope of practice.

Evaluate the given tasks

Let's examine each task and determine if it's appropriate for an LPN in an oncology unit. A. Sterile wound care - LPNs can perform sterile wound care as it is within their scope of practice. B. Administer blood product - Administering blood products is typically a task reserved for RNs or those with additional certifications because of the possibility of severe side effects and the need for close monitoring of the patient. C. Access a vascular access device - Accessing a vascular access device (e.g., central lines or PICC lines) requires specialized training and is typically performed by RNs or specially trained healthcare providers. D. Perform discharge teaching - Discharge teaching requires in-depth knowledge of patient needs and potential complications. These tasks are usually performed by registered nurses, as they possess the educational background and overall patient care knowledge necessary for this task.

Determine the most appropriate task for an LPN

Considering the scope of practice for an LPN and evaluating the tasks in the question, it becomes evident that the most appropriate task for an LPN in an oncology unit is: A. Sterile wound care

Key concepts

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Licensed Practical Nurses, commonly known as LPNs, are essential members of the healthcare team. They work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians, providing hands-on care to patients. LPNs typically undergo a year of training and must pass a licensing exam. This education prepares them to perform a variety of nursing tasks. These tasks include monitoring patient vital signs, administering certain types of medications, and executing routine care procedures. LPNs play a crucial support role in healthcare settings, assisting RNs with more complicated care as needed. While they have a limited scope of practice compared to RNs, their work is instrumental in maintaining patient care standards. In many environments, including health clinics, hospitals, and long-term care facilities, LPNs ensure efficient day-to-day operations.

Oncology Nursing

Oncology nursing is a specialized field focused on the care of patients with cancer. Nurses in this area must have a deep understanding of cancer pathology, treatment modalities, and symptom management. They work closely with patients and their families to provide emotional support and complex medical care. Oncology nurses often administer chemotherapy, manage side effects, and help navigate the complex healthcare system. In an oncology setting, both registered nurses and LPNs collaborate to ensure comprehensive cancer care. While RNs might take on tasks that require extensive clinical knowledge, such as detailed patient assessments and the administration of chemotherapy drugs, LPNs focus on providing supportive care. This might include monitoring patient comfort and performing essential care procedures, like sterile wound care, which does not require advanced nursing education but is critically needed in oncology wards.

Nursing Scope of Practice

The concept of the nursing scope of practice defines the boundaries within which nurses operate. It varies depending on the level of nursing education and qualification. For example, the scope of practice for LPNs is more limited than that of RNs. This scope is established by state nursing boards and often includes tasks such as routine patient care, administering oral medications, and assisting with personal hygiene. The scope of practice serves as a guideline to ensure that nurses provide care safely and effectively. It is especially important in specialized units such as oncology. Here, tasks must be properly delegated to match the nurse's qualifications. For LPNs, this may involve basic wound care or assistance with daily patient activities. Healthcare teams maximize patient care by adhering to these guidelines, ensuring each nurse operates within their certified capabilities.

Nursing Tasks

Nursing tasks are diverse, covering a wide range of activities necessary for patient care. In any healthcare setting, tasks are assigned based on a nurse's level of education, training, and licensure. For example, LPNs handle fundamental care activities that do not require complex clinical decision-making. In an oncology unit, LPN tasks might include:

• Monitoring patient vital signs and symptoms
• Assisting with personal care and hygiene
• Providing sterile wound care, as LPNs are trained in this technique

Tasks requiring more specialized knowledge, such as administering intravenous medications or discharge planning, typically fall to RNs. By clearly delineating these tasks, healthcare professionals ensure each patient receives attentive and competent care. This organized delegation helps maintain a high standard of nursing practice, tailored to the needs of the patient.