Which task is appropriate for delegation to an LPN?

Administering subcutaneous Heparin is an appropriate task for delegation to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) because it falls within the scope of practice for LPNs. LPNs are trained to perform specific nursing tasks under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a physician, and administering medications via subcutaneous injection, such as Heparin, is commonly included in their skill set. This task requires a solid understanding of the medication, its administration route, and the appropriate observation of the patient post-administration, which aligns well with the training and competencies of an LPN.

In contrast, admitting and assessing a new admission requires a comprehensive evaluation and critical thinking skills that are typically the responsibility of an RN. Completing discharge teaching involves evaluating a patient's readiness to learn and ensuring they understand complex health information, which again is more suited for an RN's responsibilities. Updating and evaluating the patient's plan of care involves making clinical judgments and strategic planning, roles that are primarily undertaken by an RN.