What is an example of a task that can be delegated to a licensed practical nurse?

Administering a subcutaneous injection is a task that can be delegated to a licensed practical nurse (LPN) because it falls within their scope of practice and requires basic nursing skills. LPNs are trained to perform various clinical tasks which include administering medications through different routes, including subcutaneously, under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician.

This task is straightforward and can be performed safely by an LPN, provided they have received the appropriate training to understand the medications being administered and the necessary precautions to take. Delegation of such tasks allows registered nurses to focus on more complex patient care tasks that require higher levels of assessment and clinical judgment.

In contrast, starting an IV and performing a physical assessment involve more advanced skill sets and critical thinking, which typically fall within the scope of practice for registered nurses. Evaluating patient progress requires a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition and clinical judgment, again ideally performed by a registered nurse to ensure appropriate interpretation of findings and adjustments to care plans.