A registered nurse (RN) is supervising a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an unregulated care provider (UCP) on a busy medical-surgical unit. Which task is most appropriate for the RN to delegate to the LPN?

Question: A registered nurse (RN) is supervising a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and an unregulated care provider (UCP) on a busy medical-surgical unit. Which task is most appropriate for the RN to delegate to the LPN?

Answer options:

• Initiating a blood transfusion for a client with severe anemia.
• Developing a comprehensive teaching plan for a newly diagnosed diabetic client. ✅ Administering a prescribed oral antibiotic to a client with a stable urinary tract infection.
• Performing the initial assessment of a client admitted with acute respiratory distress.

Correct answer: Administering a prescribed oral antibiotic to a client with a stable urinary tract infection.

Explanation: Administering a prescribed oral antibiotic to a client with a stable urinary tract infection is within the scope of practice for an LPN. Initiating blood transfusions, developing comprehensive teaching plans, and performing initial acute assessments typically fall under the RN's scope due to the complexity and need for independent judgment.