Delegation

Question 1

What can the RN NOT delegate to the LPN?

Answer 1

• Starting an IV (do not assume they have certification. If the question doesn’t say they do, they don’t)
• Hanging or mixing IV meds
• Pushing IV push meds
• Administer blood or mess w/ central lines
• Care plans (they implement)
• Perform or develop teaching (they can reinforce)
• Care for unstable PT’s
• The first of anything (as that requires RN assessment)

Question 2

What can an LPN do with IVs?

Answer 2

Maintain and document IV flow

Question 3

True or False

An LPN can flush a central line.

Answer 3

FALSE

Question 4

When might you choose “change a central line dressing” as an answer for something to assign to an LPN?

Answer 4

When there is no other option (the other options are obvious no-no’s)

Question 5

The LPN may NOT be assigned what type of assessments?

Answer 5

• Admission
• Discharge
• Transfer
• The first assessment after there has been a change (or any first for that matter)

Question 6

A UAP cannot…

Answer 6

• Do any charting regarding the state of a patient, only what actions they performed
• Give meds (except OTC topical and barrier creams)
• No assessments outside of Vitals and Accuity checks
• No treatments (except enemas)

Question 7

What can a UAP do regarding ADLs?

Answer 7

• Anything, as long its not the first of anything that requires RN assessment

Question 8

What is the one scenario where LPN’s may be able to many of the things they are typically not allowed to do at hospitals and why?

Answer 8

• Extended care facilities
• Because all patients are generally in STABLE condition

Question 9

True or False

You can delegate safety care of a client to a family member.

Answer 9

FALSE

Question 10

You can delegate a safety responsibility to a PT’s sitter only after what has been done?

Answer 10

• If the RN has daught them how, documented it and their competency at it