A charge nurse is completing client care assignments. Which of the following assignments is appropriate for a licensed practical nurse?

Choice A reason: This is not the correct choice because this assignment is not appropriate for a licensed practical nurse. A client who requires discharge instructions for type 1 diabetes mellitus needs education on self-care, medication administration, blood glucose monitoring, diet, and exercise. These are complex tasks that require the knowledge and skills of a registered nurse.

Choice B reason: This is the correct choice because this assignment is appropriate for a licensed practical nurse. A client who is 1 day postoperative and has a continuous bladder irrigation needs routine care, such as vital signs, wound assessment, fluid intake and output, and catheter care. These are basic tasks that can be performed by a licensed practical nurse under the supervision of a registered nurse.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct choice because this assignment is not appropriate for a licensed practical nurse. A client who requires a blood transfusion to be administered needs careful monitoring, such as checking for compatibility, verifying informed consent, observing for adverse reactions, and documenting the transfusion. These are advanced tasks that require the judgment and authority of a registered nurse.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct choice because this assignment is not appropriate for a licensed practical nurse. A client who is receiving IV chemotherapy needs specialized care, such as preparing and administering the medication, managing side effects, providing emotional support, and following safety precautions. These are specialized tasks that require the training and certification of a registered nurse.

Choice A reason: Administering IV nitroglycerin to a client who is experiencing chest pain is not an appropriate assignment for the float nurse, as it requires advanced cardiac knowledge and skills that the nurse may not have. The charge nurse should assign this task to a nurse who is experienced in the emergency department.

Choice B reason: Completing a SAD PERSONS assessment scale for a client who has attempted suicide is not an appropriate assignment for the float nurse, as it requires mental health expertise and training that the nurse may not have. The charge nurse should assign this task to a nurse who is qualified in psychiatric nursing.

Choice C reason: Setting up a trauma room for an incoming client who was in a motor-vehicle crash is not an appropriate assignment for the float nurse, as it requires emergency preparedness and competence that the nurse may not have. The charge nurse should assign this task to a nurse who is familiar with the trauma protocols and equipment.

Choice D reason: Performing a urinary catheterization for a client who has experienced a cerebrovascular accident is an appropriate assignment for the float nurse, as it is a basic nursing skill that the nurse should have learned and practiced in the medical-surgical unit. The charge nurse should assign this task to the float nurse as long as the nurse is comfortable and confident with the procedure.