A nurse enters the room of a client and discovers the client with new right-sided weakness and slurred speech. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Initiating a plan of care for a client who is postoperative from an appendectomy is not a task that the RN should delegate to the LPN, as it requires nursing judgment, critical thinking, and assessment skills that are beyond the scope of practice of the LPN. The RN is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating the plan of care for each client based on their individual needs, preferences, and goals. The RN can delegate some aspects of the plan of care to the LPN, such as performing routine tasks or monitoring the client's status, but the RN must supervise and evaluate the LPN's performance.

Choice B reason: Administering a tap-water enema to a client who is preoperative is a task that the RN can delegate to the LPN, as it is a standardized procedure that does not require nursing judgment or assessment. The LPN has the knowledge and skills to perform this task safely and effectively, following the established policies and protocols of the facility. The RN should provide clear instructions and expectations to the LPN, such as the type, amount, and temperature of the solution, the position and comfort of the client, and the signs and symptoms to report. The RN should also verify that the LPN has completed the task and documented the outcome.

Choice C reason: Providing discharge instructions to a confused client's spouse is not a task that the RN should delegate to the LPN, as it involves teaching, counseling, and evaluating the client's and family's understanding and readiness for discharge. These are complex activities that require nursing judgment, communication skills, and evaluation skills that are beyond the scope of practice of the LPN. The RN is responsible for ensuring that the client and family receive adequate information and education about the client's condition, treatment, medications, follow-up care, and community resources. The RN can delegate some aspects of discharge planning to the LPN, such as collecting data or providing reinforcement of teaching, but the RN must supervise and evaluate the LPN's performance.

Choice D reason: Catheterizing a client who has not voided in 8 hours is a task that the RN can delegate to the LPN, as it is a standardized procedure that does not require nursing judgment or assessment. The LPN has the knowledge and skills to perform this task safely and effectively, following the established policies and protocols of the facility. The RN should provide clear instructions and expectations to the LPN, such as the type and size of the catheter, the sterile technique, and the urine output measurement. The RN should also verify that the LPN has completed the task and documented the outcome.

Choice E reason: Obtaining vital signs from a client who is 6 hours postoperative is a task that the RN can delegate to the LPN, as it is a routine task that does not require nursing judgment or assessment. The LPN has the knowledge and skills to perform this task safely and effectively, using appropriate equipment and techniques. The RN should provide clear instructions and expectations to the LPN, such as the frequency and parameters of vital signs monitoring. The RN should also verify that the LPN has completed the task and documented the outcome.

Choice A reason: The inability to take risks is not a quality of an effective nurse leader, as it may limit the leader's potential for growth, innovation, and improvement. Effective nurse leaders are willing to take calculated risks that are based on evidence, experience, and intuition. They are also able to learn from their mistakes and failures and use them as opportunities for development.

Choice B reason: Never consider being a follower is not a quality of an effective nurse leader, as it may indicate a lack of flexibility, collaboration, and respect for others. Effective nurse leaders are able to adapt to different situations and roles, depending on the needs and goals of the team. They are also able to recognize the strengths and contributions of their followers and empower them to achieve their full potential.

Choice C reason: The ability to set priorities is a quality of an effective nurse leader, as it helps the leader to focus on the most important and urgent tasks and goals. Effective nurse leaders are able to identify the needs and expectations of their clients, staff, and organization, and allocate their time, resources, and energy accordingly. They are also able to delegate tasks appropriately and efficiently.

Choice D reason: Integrity is a quality of an effective nurse leader, as it reflects the leader's honesty, trustworthiness, and ethical standards. Effective nurse leaders are able to act in accordance with their values and principles, and uphold the professional code of conduct. They are also able to communicate openly and transparently, and accept responsibility and accountability for their actions and decisions.

Choice E reason: Critical care certification is not a quality of an effective nurse leader, as it is not a requirement or a guarantee for leadership success. Critical care certification is a credential that demonstrates the nurse's knowledge and competence in providing care to critically ill patients. While it may enhance the nurse's clinical skills and confidence, it does not necessarily reflect the nurse's leadership skills or abilities. Effective nurse leaders can come from various backgrounds and specialties, as long as they have the necessary qualities and attributes that enable them to lead others effectively.