Delegation & Assignment
Can an LPN in Washington delegate vital signs to a CNA (NAC)?
Yes – (As long as the Pt is stable has been already initially assessed and the CNA has been trained in doing so.)
What tool (A standard format to communicate) should an LPN use to call the RN about a change in condition?
SBAR
A patient refuses their morning insulin. What is the LPN’s first action?
Stop, do not give it, and tell the RN right away.
When does an LPN usually start reinforcing discharge teaching?
As soon as the RN has taught the patient.
Two patients ring: one wants water, one says “I can’t breathe.” Who do you help first?
The patient who can’t breathe – then immediately tell the RN.
When can an LPN accept a delegated task?
When the patient is stable and the task is predictable.
f the physical therapist asks the LPN about the patient’s pain level today, is it okay to answer?
Yes – sharing with the team is allowed.
Can an LPN tell the patient’s daughter the diagnosis over the phone?
No – only if the patient gave written permission.
What is one thing every LPN must check before the patient leaves the facility?
That the patient (or caregiver) can demonstrate or repeat key instructions.
You have blood sugars, 10 am meds, and a dressing change all due now. What is usually first?
The task that affects airway, breathing, circulation or safety (e.g., hypoglycemic patient).
What should an LPN do if asked to start an IV?
Politely refuse and notify the RN – IV push/start is outside WA LPN scope.
True or False: LPNs can give report directly to the ambulance crew taking the patient to SNF.
True (with RN approval).
What must an LPN do if they suspect elder abuse?
Report to supervisor and APS immediately (mandatory reporter in WA).
Can an LPN do the final discharge teaching from scratch?
No – LPNs reinforce, RNs perform initial teaching.
Is it okay for an LPN to decide not to do a scheduled task and do it later?
Only if patient condition is stable and you document the reason.
Who is responsible if something goes wrong with a delegated task the LPN is doing?
Both the delegator (usually RN) and the LPN who accepted it.
Who does the LPN notify first if the patient’s oxygen saturation drops to 88%?
The RN or provider immediately.
Is it okay to take a photo of a patient’s wound for personal study?
No – violates HIPAA unless facility policy and patient consent allow it.
Name one thing LPNs commonly add to the discharge med-rec list.
Over-the-counter meds, vitamins, or herbals the patient takes.
What is the best way for an LPN to keep track of tasks on a busy med-surg floor?
Use a brain sheet or checklist and update the RN on anything overdue