Final answer:
An RN in a long-term care facility can delegate the task of suctioning the tracheostomy to an experienced LPN/LVN, but should not delegate assessing the patient's risk for aspiration, educating the patient about self-care, or determining the need for tracheostomy tube replacement.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a long-term care facility, certain tasks associated with the care of a patient with a tracheostomy may be delegated by the RN to an experienced LPN/LVN. Of the options provided, the RN can delegate the action of suctioning the tracheostomy when needed. This is a task that falls within the scope of duties that an LPN/LVN can perform under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. Suctioning is essential for maintaining patency of the airway and is a procedural task that does not require the advanced assessment skills of an RN.
However, assessing the patient's risk for aspiration is a more complex task that involves clinical judgment and should not be delegated to an LPN/LVN. Similarly, educating the patient about self-care of the tracheostomy is often the responsibility of the RN, as it involves designing and implementing an individualized teaching plan based on detailed assessments. Lastly, determining the need for replacement of the tracheostomy tube is a critical decision that typically requires the RN's advanced assessment skills and should not be delegated to an LPN/LVN.