Question

When a patient with type 2 diabetes is admitted for a cholecystectomy, which nursing action

can the nurse delegate to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)?
a. Communicate the blood glucose level and insulin dose to the circulating nurse in
surgery.
b. Discuss the reason for the use of insulin therapy during the immediate
postoperative period.
c. Administer the prescribed lispro (Humalog) insulin before transporting the patient
to surgery.
d. Plan strategies to minimize the risk for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia during the
postoperative period.

Answer 1

An LPN/LVN can administer the prescribed lispro (Humalog) insulin before a patient with type 2 diabetes is transported to surgery for a cholecystectomy, as medication administration is within their scope of practice.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient with type 2 diabetes is admitted for a cholecystectomy, the nursing action that can be delegated to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) is administering the prescribed lispro (Humalog) insulin before transporting the patient to surgery. LPNs/LVNs have the training to administer medications, including insulin. The other listed actions, such as communicating blood glucose levels to other team members, discussing insulin therapy reasons, and planning strategies to manage blood glucose levels, are typically within the scope of practice for a registered nurse (RN) or advance practice nurse.