A nurse is caring for four postoperative clients. The nurse can delegate obtaining vital signs to an assistive personnel (AP) for which of the following clients?
A client who is 3 days postoperative following a craniotomy
A client who is 3 days postoperative following gastric bypass surgery
A client who is 2 hr postoperative following an abdominal hysterectomy
A client who is 1 hr postoperative following a thyroidectomy
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. A client who is 3 days postoperative following a craniotomy requires careful monitoring due to potential complications from brain surgery, so vital signs should be taken by a nurse.
B. A client who is 3 days postoperative following gastric bypass surgery is stable enough for an AP to obtain vital signs, as the risk of immediate postoperative complications is lower compared to more recent surgeries.
C. A client who is 2 hr postoperative following an abdominal hysterectomy requires close monitoring due to the recent surgery, so vital signs should be obtained by a nurse.
D. A client who is 1 hr postoperative following a thyroidectomy requires vigilant monitoring for potential complications from recent surgery, which should be done by a nurse.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Verbally questioning the staff does not effectively assess hands-on competency with the equipment.
B. Reading the procedure and signing a form does not ensure that the staff can actually use the equipment correctly.
C. A written examination tests knowledge but not practical skills.
D. Demonstrating proficiency ensures that staff can correctly operate the equipment in a practical setting, which is the most effective way to evaluate competency.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Analyzing data to identify issues for a client who has uncontrolled diabetes mellitus requires a higher level of clinical judgment and is typically performed by an RN.
B. Assisting a client with crutch walking following knee replacement surgery is an appropriate task for an LPN, as it involves support with activities of daily living and mobility.
C. Evaluating the outcomes of a new postoperative client involves assessing the effectiveness of care and requires RN-level assessment skills.
D. Developing the plan of care for a client who has an amputation involves comprehensive assessment and planning, which is usually the responsibility of an RN.