Which client should a charge nurse delegate to an LPN?

Delegating care to an LPN involves considering the scope of practice and the complexity of the client’s condition. A client who is postoperative following a bowel resection with an NG tube set to continuous suction is an appropriate choice for delegation to an LPN.

The care required for this client typically includes monitoring the NG tube’s output, assessing the surgical site, and ensuring the client’s comfort and stability, which an LPN is well-equipped to handle. LPNs are trained in routine postoperative care and can manage basic assessments, vital signs, and fundamental patient needs, making them suitable for this scenario.

In contrast, clients with more complex and unstable conditions, such as those experiencing an acute myocardial infarction or receiving chemotherapy, require the higher-level critical thinking and assessment skills of an RN. Additionally, a client with a complex wound dressing may necessitate the comprehensive knowledge and skills of an RN, as wound care can involve assessing for infection and deciding on treatment adjustments. Thus, B is the appropriate choice for delegation to an LPN based on the client’s stability and the routine nature of their care needs.