A nurse is planning care for four clients. Which of the following tasks should the nurse ask the charge nurse to reassign to an RN?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Removing an NG tube: Removing a nasogastric tube is a task that can be safely delegated to a licensed practical nurse (LPN) under appropriate supervision, as it is considered a stable, routine procedure that does not require complex assessment. B. Administering a subcutaneous insulin injection: LPNs are trained and authorized to administer subcutaneous injections, including insulin, as long as the client's condition is stable and the dose is clearly prescribed. C. Providing discharge teaching about home IV medication therapy: Discharge education involving IV therapy requires comprehensive teaching, clinical judgment, and evaluation of understanding, which falls within the scope of practice of a registered nurse (RN). D. Collecting a sputum culture: Collecting a sputum specimen is a basic nursing task that can be performed by an LPN or even by trained assistive personnel, depending on facility policy. It does not require the expertise of an RN.