The nurse leading a care team on a medical surgical unit is assigning client care to a practical nurse (PN) and an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). Which activity should the nurse assign to the PN?

A. Administer medications by piggyback infusion: Practical nurses (PNs/LPNs) commonly administer medications, including intravenous medications such as secondary (piggyback) infusions, depending on institutional policy and scope of practice. These medications are given through an established IV line and do not require the advanced assessment or critical decision-making expected of the registered nurse (RN). B. Initiate teaching for client care after discharge: Initial client education, particularly discharge teaching, requires comprehensive knowledge of the client’s diagnosis, treatment plan, and learning needs. This responsibility involves assessment, planning, and evaluation of understanding, which are functions of the registered nurse. C. Determine the need for urinary catheterizations: Determining whether a client requires urinary catheterization requires clinical judgment and assessment of the client’s condition, including bladder function, urinary retention, and risk of infection. This type of decision-making falls under the RN’s scope because it involves assessment and clinical evaluation. D. Complete comprehensive assessments: A comprehensive assessment involves a full evaluation of the client’s physiological, psychological, and functional status, often performed during admission or when there is a change in condition. This level of assessment requires critical thinking and interpretation of findings, which are core responsibilities of the registered nurse.