Question

B. A client with a leg cast who needs neurologic checks and PRN hydrocodone

C. A client post-op toe amputation with diabetic neuropathic pain

The clients with the cast and the toe amputation are stable clients and need ongoing assessment and pain management that are within the scope of practice for an LPN/LVN under the supervision of an RN. The RN should take responsibility for pre-operative teaching, and the terminal cancer needs a comprehensive assessment to determine the reason for refusal of medication.
Which client(s) are appropriate to assign to the LPN/LVN, who will function under the supervision of the RN or team leader? (Choose all that apply.)
A. A client who needs pre-op teaching for use of a PCA pump
B. A client with a leg cast who needs neurologic checks and PRN hydrocodone
C. A client post-op toe amputation with diabetic neuropathic pain
D. A client with terminal cancer and severe pain who is refusing medication

Answer 1

LPN/LVN can be assigned clients B and C, as they require neurologic checks, pain management, and assessment which fall within the scope of an LPN/LVN under RN supervision.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate clients to assign to an LPN/LVN, who will function under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, are client B and C. B is a client with a leg cast who needs neurologic checks and PRN hydrocodone, while C is a client post-op toe amputation with diabetic neuropathic pain. In the context of a healthcare team, the LPN/LVN has the knowledge and scope of practice to manage stable clients requiring ongoing assessment and pain management. Assuming responsibility for these clients allows the RN to focus on patients who require more complex care, such as pre-operative teaching or comprehensive assessments, which in this scenario would include the client with terminal cancer refusing medication.