As usual, it is important to make sure that whoever the Registered nurse is delegating to is experienced and has the right training and direction to do a job and also knows the importance of reporting deterioration of the client to the registered nurse.
Next, use the acronym PRACTICE to determine what the practical nurse can and cannot be asked to do. Read on for a break down on the acronym.
Know what P stands for
P means provide wound care. The practical nurse can do this as well as take out staples and apply steri strips to an inscision(i got this on a question from some book!
Know what R stands for
R stands for reinforce teaching. The practical nurse cannot initiate a teaching session. That is the job of the registered nurse.
Know what A stands for
A stands for administer medication. The PN can administer medication. They cannot give narcotics or give IV medications. They can give injections but they cannot start IV's( according to the text books, HESI and NCLEX.
A could also mean Assist the physician when the RN has to do something else important.
Know what T stands for
T stands for take vital signs. The PN can do this on a stable client or as a matter of routine.
Know what I stands for
I stands for Identify. Identifying alterations in a clients condition is something else the PN can do. This of course has to be reported to the registered nurse.
Know what C stands for
C stands for Check. The PN can Check the clients mobility and urine output.
Know what E stands for
E means enter as in documentation. The PN can enter information into the clients medical record as needed. SO the PN can document.
These are things that the PN can do, so keep these in mind when you are answering questions on delegating to a licensed practical nurse.