Safe, Effective Care Environment
21. An RN delegates the administration of a nasogastric tube feeding to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN). Which statement about responsibility in this situation is most accurate?
Safe, Effective Care Environment
21. An RN delegates the administration of a nasogastric tube feeding to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN). Which statement about responsibility in this situation is most accurate?
. The RN is responsible for delegated care.
. This task should not be delegated.
. The LPN/LVN is responsible for own actions.
. The LPN/LVN should respectfully refuse to initiate this care.
Test-Taking Tip
Remember that only the authority to do something is delegated—not the responsibility.
Content Area: Management of Care, Legal; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Comprehension; Client Need/Subneed: Safe and Effective Care Environment/Management of Care/Delegation
Safe, Effective Care Environment
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Answer 1 is correct because the RN can never delegate the ultimate responsibility for the client. Before delegating, the RN needs to determine that the LPN/LVN is competent. Answer 2 is incorrect because tube feedings are within the scope of LPN/LVN practice, and can be delegated. Answer 3 is incorrect because, even though the LPN/LVN has accountability, the RN can never delegate responsibility. Answer 4 is incorrect because this is a task appropriate for the LPN/LVN, assuming that the LPN/LVN has shown competency in the procedure.