Question

To prepare a patient on the unit for a bronchoscopic procedure, a medical-surgical nurse administers the IV sedative. The medical-surgical nurse then instructs the licensed practical nurse to:

1. Educate the patient about the pending procedure.
2. Give the patient small sips of water only.
3. Measure the patient's blood pressure and pulse readings.
4. Take the patient to the bathroom one more time.

Answer 1

In Medicine, an LPN's responsibilities prior to a bronchoscopic procedure may include monitoring vital signs, patient education if trained, restricting oral intake to prevent aspiration, and assisting with bathroom needs. Specific tasks depend on institutional policies and scope of practice.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject of this question is Medicine, specifically focusing on the responsibilities of a medical-surgical nurse and a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in preparing a patient for a bronchoscopic procedure. After the nurse administers an IV sedative, the LPN's role may include a variety of tasks to ensure that the patient is ready and safe for the procedure. However, specific tasks will depend on institutional policies and the scope of practice.

Generally, an LPN may be tasked with taking vital signs, such as measuring the patient's blood pressure and pulse readings to monitor the patient's baseline vitals before the procedure. Educating the patient about the procedure may fall within the LPN's scope if they have been properly educated on the procedure themselves.

Restricting oral intake, such as allowing small sips of water only, would likely be an appropriate measure to prevent aspiration during sedation. Finally, assisting the patient to the bathroom may be relevant to ensure comfort and reduce potential complications during and after the procedure.